Pong Galaxy – new game adds a twist to classic Pong
by Paul Wilks
Dec 26, 2012 10:28 AM –
Install
Pong Galaxy is an exciting refresh on the 1970′s gaming hit Pong. In the original you merely controlled a vertically moving paddle to defend a blip of pixels. Here however the graphics, while still retro, are far more detailed and now there is a plot, power ups and a range of challenging enemies to face off.
Price: Free, plus In-app Purchases
Tested on: Nexus 4
Content Rating: Everyone
Pros & Cons:
Pros
- Cool retro graphics!
- Challenging gameplay!
- Interesting story!
- Multiple modes!
- 1 or 2 player!
Cons
- You may find the learning curve a bit steep without making in-app purchases.
- Includes both banner advertising and in-app purchases.
Features:
Pong Galaxy is fundamentally faithful to the original Pong in that you control a paddle which you move up and down to defend against an oncoming projectile. In Pong Galaxy this is an orb which you prevent passing by you by firing at it. Laser fire begins automatically when the orb enters your side of the gameplay, you just have to ensure you are in the correct position to return the orb.
As you progress through the levels you compete against various alien races, each more powerful than the one before. You collect XP as you beat them and you can upgrade your powers to stand a better chance against the strong opposition. These include shot power and speed, which can be instrumental in defeating your opponent. You also have limited ammo per round, but this too can be increased.
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The game immerses you into a world of alien forces and human characters who advise you as you go along. I did find the game to be pretty tough as you collect XP and the learning curve is relatively steep. While this means when you do upgrade your powers, you can tell right away, but it also means you may have to suffer frequent losses while you build up enough XP to buy your way to success. Of course you can make in-app purchases and this might be tempting if the game has done enough for you to invest in it.
The multiplayer mode demonstrates what the original Pong game was all about- exciting one-on-one action. The game lets you choose who you want to be (human or an alien race) as well as ammo volume and number of goals. While the single player game is good, be sure to try and find a friend to compete against in this way, it really brings the game to life and adds a very competitive dimension.
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Pong Galaxy – Typical gameplay views (1)
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Pong Galaxy – Typical gameplay views (2)
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Pong Galaxy – Typical gameplay views (3)
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Pong Galaxy – Typical gameplay views (4)
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Pong Galaxy – Sumptuously retro graphics
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Pong Galaxy – Challenge increasingly tough aliens
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Pong Galaxy – Sadly those banner ads get in the way slightly
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Pong Galaxy – Defeat
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Pong Galaxy – Victory
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Pong Galaxy- Pause menu
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Pong Galaxy – Instructions and dialogue
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Pong Galaxy – Lots of levels to battle through
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Pong Galaxy – Improve ship with XP
Fun Factor:
The game is lots of fun but I did find it had a rather steep learning curve which takes the edge off of your enjoyment a little. The single-player game is clearly structured to tempt you into making in-app purchases. However, load up a two player game and Pong Galaxy really excels. It’s fun, frenetic and really engrossing.
Addictive:
The game is arguably more addictive when you play it in two player mode so if you have a buddy to play with, this will be ideal. In single player mode it’s also very good, but it is very difficult unless you make in-game purchases.
Graphics:
The graphics are clearly retro-designed but still remarkably sharp and detailed. The neon shapes glow and it often feels very much like Glow Hockey. The overall theme feels similar to another retro game, Space Invaders and the visuals compliment the gameplay perfectly.
Accelerometer, Vibration & Sound:
There is an abundance of music and in-game audio. It sounds good, slightly futuristic and very cool.
Tags:
Android App,
Android Apps,
Android Game,
AndroidTapp.com App Review,
Glow Hockey,
Pong,
Pong Galaxy,
retro,
Space Invaders
Categorised in: Arcade & Action
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