While browsing the App Store this morning I came across a new addition to Apple’s ever-growing library, Meta Squaresâ„¢
[App Store].
Basic Concept of the Game
Basically, the aim of the game is to capture the largest amount of squares by squaring them off at each of the four corners. Points are earned relative to the size of the square you capture. A large square, covering 25 spaces, is worth 25 points. A smaller square covering 9 spaces is worth 9 points. Squares can also be created diagonally with the added benefit that diagonal squares earn you more points. The first to 150 points, wins.
Visuals
For the price, the visuals of this game are outstanding. The game is set out on a clear 64 piece board. Each player must take it in turns to fill this board with coloured globes, and attempt to outline that winning square. The globes look realistic, and the overall feel of this title speaks ‘professional’ and ‘well thought-out’ …
Level-Based Gameplay
From the application itself:
Meta Squares is a level based game. If you beat level 1, you will move to level 2 and so on. Subequent games can be started at any of the levels you have previously beaten and will continue to advance as you rack up the victories. Levels can be set in the Options tab. For a level change to take effect you must start a new game or be at the start of a new game.
Piece Lock
The game had a few little cute features, too …
To help you avoid placing pieces in the wrong spot, you have the ability to move your piece while it is still blinking. The length of time your piece blinks is determined by the piece lock timer. You can increase or decrease this time in the Options panel. You can also double tap on a space to place your piece instantly and permanently.
Price
Priced at £1.79 ($3.50), Meta Squares™ is quite a steal.
Other Options
Meta Squaresâ„¢ ships with some eye-candy in the shape of themes for the game boards, and glass globes. Here are some of the themes you can choose from …
It also includes an ‘Auto Save’ feature, for those all important times where you click the home button, by accident -_-.
Summary
Although a very well designed, logical, puzzler for iPhone, and definitely one of the better applications on the App Store currently, it’s lacking a two-player mode, and I can’t help but think the game could benefit from some kind of accelerometer integration, possibly linked in with the current ‘Piece Lock’ feature?
App Store Link: Meta Squaresâ„¢
Rating: 8.5/10 (Recommended)
R-Fly
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