Chu Chu Rocket iPod

I first reviewed Chu Chu Rocket several months ago on another mobile so it feels quite literally like déjà vu getting to play it all over again on the iPhone/iPod.

This popular game is a puzzler which will keep you occupied for several hours. What you must do is help the space mice escape from the evil space cats and other obstacles by getting to their rocket.

Unlike the other version, you have the benefit of not just playing the tutorial to learn the ropes but also get to pick other versions game types including; puzzle, challenge and 1-4 player battles.

The puzzle game provides you with a plethora of challenging levels to outsmart. Using the touchscreen you must place the tile down on the selected square and then use your motion to swipe the direction you wish the arrow to move the mice and cats in. If you make a mistake of placing the square in the wrong position or swipe the arrow the wrong way, you will have to cycle your way through and place the arrow correctly, needless to say that this can be a costly mistake.

Despite all the various game styles, the rules remain the same throughout. The rules are simple, as your mouse hits a wall or border it will turn 90 degrees (clockwise) and head in a new direction. By doing this, you can calculate the logical route that it will take throughout the various level mazes and try to get your mouse to safety without being caught by the cat(s).

The greatest advantage that this game has over its predecessor is the 1-4 player battle mode. In this setting you get to connect remotely or compete against the computer. This game is often walking a thin line between being hilarious and frustrating but always very frantic. What you must do is get as many mice to your ship, as many cats to the opponents ship and outsmart your opponents at (quite literally) every turn. Sometimes the computer will work together to help you, other times it will go against you, so remain on your toes at all times.

Overall, this game is pretty basic in terms of its appearance but offers a very compelling and addictive experience.

Positives

Hours of frustrating puzzle solving fun

Even more hour’s worth of challenges to get stuck into

Unlimited attempts at clearing a level

Negatives

Frustrating game at times, with no shortcuts to leap to the next level

Poor graphics

Awkward controls

80%