Developer: Codemasters
Price: $3.99
Version Reviewed: 1.0
Device Reviewed On: iPad 2
Gamers of the 1980s and 1990s will almost certainly recognize the name Dizzy. In many instances, they may also suffer from an irrational twitch at the sheer mention of the name. All those memories of the suffering at the hands of obtuse puzzles and tricky platforming causing quite an effect on their poor brains. I’m in the latter camp. While I have very fond memories of my time with the Dizzy games, I suffered at the hands of their harsh difficulty. I was only a child at the time, after all.
2011 and the iOS release of Dizzy: Prince of the Yolkfolk has given me the perfect opportunity to take revenge and finally master a Dizzy title. It’s worked out quite well too.
A conversion of the adventure game of 1991, previously available for all manners of home computers as well as the NES, Dizzy: Prince of the Yolkfolk maintains much of what fans have come to expect from the series but with a sheen of 21st century class. It’s also easier than ever before. The player can now fall down as many holes as they want without any fear of a game over screen. It makes taking risks so much easier than it used to and makes the game more of a puzzle game than a platformer.
For much of the time, players will find themselves figuring out just how a magic carpet or an MP3 player can help get them past the next obstacle. Wandering around the luscious landscapes, at seemingly every turn is a troll or Grim Reaper keen to stop Dizzy from progressing. It’s then a matter of working out what object works in which situation. Fortunately, a hint system helps for those truly stumped which does come in handy at times.
For those who have played Dizzy games in the past however, it’s no great challenge. Instead, it’s made infinitely easier by the unlimited lives. That doesn’t stop it being fun though. Controls are easy to use and clearly laid out, with the general experience attractive throughout. It’s the kind of game that would appeal to all puzzle fans, not just ones who played this the first time round. Here’s hoping for future Dizzy games to reach the App Store soon.