Rotorumpus [iPhone]

rotorumpus01 Rotorumpus is a 3D puzzler where you navigate a three dimensional environment to join a “package” with “dispenser port” box. You can only move objects in straight lines, ieÂ horizontallyÂ andÂ vertically, repositioning your package box to finally reach the dispenser. Double tapping onto a nearby illuminated box in grid alignment will reposition your package whilst at the same time you need to carefully plan your moves to Â avoid dead ends.

Rotorumpus appears simple at first sight where the next move is suggested by a illuminated box you will soon find that as you progress levels more boxes become illuminated suggesting possible all possible moves but at the same time making the task more difficult. Knowing which route to take can be difficult at times especially considering this is a three dimensional space you are in and navigating your view points and understanding your environment plays an integral part to you solving the puzzle. With many boxes laid out this task can be maybe slightly tooÂ difficultÂ and you may find yourself endlessly moving your package aroundÂ repeatedlyÂ thinking you have taken that route before until suddenly you find yourself in front of the dispenser unit thinking “how did I get here, nice!”.

Rotorumpus really makes nice use of touch interfaceÂ but we can’t help to think that there should be some form of trail left of your previous movements so you can evaluate what you may be doing wrong. Instead, you may feel a little lost, taking a guess where to move next. Â The game comes with 4 stages and 20 levels and after a half hour of playing we have found ourselves at the start of level 3. Level 1 and Level 2 are quite easy to get through once you know what you need to do but we do expect 3 and 4 to get a lot harder. Level three includes boxes with bombs which you can stay on for few seconds otherwise they explode. Also remember that to restart or pause the game you need to shake your iphone which may be slightlyÂ unnecessaryÂ especially because the current sensitivity level is set on too low so please be careful not to throw your iPhone trying to pause the game (we found ourselves feeling slightly silly doing it in public especially when you have to do it over and over again because the iPhone did not register the movement first time).

Rotorumpus is a fun game and a great attempt to explore touch interface in a 3dÂ environment. We haven’t completed the game yet so we don’t know what else we should expect. Nevertheless if you enjoy innovative and different type of gaming experience on the iPhone Â you shouldÂ definitelyÂ giveÂ Rotorumpus a go.Â

Platform: iPhone
Version: 1.0
Cost: $1.99
Developer: Ugly Apps
[xrr rating=3.5/5]