International Mac Podcast

So, because I have been feeling that there’s more that I can do to get involved in IMP, I’ve decide to start this little bi-weekly “column”, in which I’ll basically review an iPhone application. Just so that everything is clear, this isn’t a “Pick of the Week” a la MacBreak Weekly, it is simply a (hopefully) informative review. Sometimes I’ll love the app, other times I may hate it. It’s just me giving my opinion on any given application. So, I’m going to start off these reviews with one of the first applications announced for the App Store, Super Monkey Ball.

Super Monkey Ball was actually the first iPhone app that I actually payed for, as well as the first app that I downloaded from the App Store on my iPod touch. I simply going to start off by saying that this game is well worth the 10 dollars.

When I first saw the demoes of this game, I have to admit that I was a little skeptical. This was mainly because I had played the jailbrake game Neverball just before this game was demoed. Neverball did not give me high hopes. The controls weren’t sensitive enough, and the physics were way off. But I digress. Super Monkey Ball happen to be the exact opposite of that. The game sported incredible graphics, superior control sensitivity, and an insanely great set of levels.

For those of you who haven’t played it , the basic premise of the game is guiding your sphere-encased monkey around a floating platform, collecting bananas a completing the stage by rolling through a glowing hoop.the game has give worlds for you to play through, each of which has ten levels. At the time of writing, I have indeed completed the game. I found the gameplay challenging, while incredibly enjoyable at the same time. The graphics are beautifully designed, and the levels are highly addictive.

The only downfall to the game is that it does not allow you to save your progress through the current level when you exit the game.

Overall, a great game, and a great first effort by SEGA and Other Ocean.