Phase iPod

Paul Govan's review of Phase. Subscribe to this column via RSS or Newsletter.

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Column:
Family Gamer

Format:
iPod

Genre:
Rhythmaction

Written on:
11/09/2007

Further reading:
Mini iPod Games
Family Gaming Awards

One of the best kept secrets of the casual gaming world are iPod games. These little gems can be purchased from the iTunes store and provide bona fide gaming experiences. Such was the response to our Mini iPod Games column that I have started to review some of these games.

Phase is a rhythm action game from Harmonix. The people behind the original Guitar Hero and more recently Rock Band, two games that have been a big hit with both hardcore and casual gamers. Nothing too surprising there, apart from Phase is on the iPod. You can play in on any third generation Nano or sixth generation Classic.

Harmonix are the inspiration behind many rhythm action success stories on a variety of platforms, but this is their first portable game. This, like their other games are played by pressing, tapping or strumming in time with a pre-rendered track. They map out the beats and instruments that need to be played, so the player can join in with the music.

The game is played as you view three lines down which come colored circles. You are tasked with clicking the matching button on the click wheel when the circle reach the bottom of the screen. The circles are arranged to match the rythm of the currently slected music. Not only that but you can add your own music to the game and play along with your favourite tracks.

Additionally, there are also less frequent and smaller dots that sweep across the track. To hit these you need to swipe your finger across the click wheel at the correct point. Add to this the different difficulty settings and you have a pretty challenging and enjoyable experience.

Phase fits the iPod well because it can use your music to create new levels for the game - a first for rhythm action games. Also, the simple clicks, slides and runs have been well adjusted for the iPod's click wheel controller. Again it's a great game to play on the go, and a different way to enjoy your music.

Thanks for reading the reivew, visit our Family Gaming Awards - the best games for the different people in your family.

Game People family video game reviews support Association of Family Gamers. They also offer niche and anecdotal dad, mum, teen and senior video game reviews.

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