Review - Tetraform

Tetraform is a flash animation action game created by Newgrounds.com programmer Tyler Glaiel (Glaiel-Gamer), with artwork for the game done by Newgrounds.com artist aeiowu. Music for the game includes music from Newgrounds.com users. These include: : Game Over by TritoneAngel, Victory - Grandia style by Liau, and Space Reggae (1st Rendition) by mr-jazzman. This game was submitted to Newgrounds.com on December 16, 2009 and won the Daily Feature award on December 17, 2009.

Gameplay

The objective of the game is to protect the structure in the middle of the screen from taking damage from the surrounding aircraft and other deadly projectiles. Your main weapon is the ability to make objects attract each other. To do this, simply click on one object, then click on another. This will create a gravitational pull that brings the two together, crashing them into each other and hopefully destroying them both. You can click on any two objects, including the structure in the middle, to become attracted and drawn to each other.

Red arrows around the perimeter of the screen will let you know when enemies are approaching and from where.

When you click on an object, to undo the click, simply click on the object again.

Throughout the game, there will be objects that you can pick up. These objects include health as well as weapons.

When you successfully destroy two objects away from the object in the middle of the screen, colorful dots will appear from the explosion and be automatically attracted to the object in the middle of the screen. These colorful dots slowly but surely add health.

Your score is based on the collisions you create.

You lose when the object in the middle of the screen is destroyed from being attacked by the enemy. Once you lose, you will be given the opportunity to continue playing from where you lost; however, your score will be reset.

Throughout the game, you will face a number of different enemies, from small to large to slow to fast. There are also bosses that you will have to defeat in order to advance.

Controls

Click on an object. A blue spherical shape will cover the object. Now, click a different object to create an attraction between the two. Click on the former object to undo the attraction.

Game Review

Tetraform is an interesting game. First of all, the option of playing in full-screen mode is a nice touch, since it allows players to be completely immersed in the game. The game concept is also interesting. It isn't a mindless action game and does require a bit of reflexes to advance far into the game. Also, the many pick-up items that are scattered throughout the game keep players interested in what other items they can obtain. Also, the music was good and not too repetitive.

Tetraform scores an 8/10. Having an upgrade system along with the pick-up items would be one way to improve.