'Niko' iOS Review

If ever, in some odd twist of events, Super Mario met up with Angry Birds, decided to get married and have a child that child’s name would be Niko. There is no better way to describe Sulake Corps platformer gem. With a fun mix of platforming and sling shot style movement It offers a fresh take on a well established genre. If you have been looking for a game to scratch the platforming itch then Niko might just be the game for you.

On it’s surface Niko is a simple platformer offering much of what you would expect for the game type; a lot of running, jumping and satisfying moments as you finally get past that one jump you couldn’t quite make. However as you spend some time with the little hero navigating through the world you discover that it is a world full of puzzles, achievements and collectibles (the latter, when all collected, unlock a secret world) that keep you coming back for more.

Graphically the game is clean offering smooth textures and simple but elegant design. The levels are themed but offer enough variety that boredom doesn’t set in. It offers a very vibrant color scheme that works nicely with the lighthearted nature of the game.

The controls offer a fresh approach to the platforming genre. The usual left and right arrows preform the action you would expect but what makes this game unique is in how it accomplishes jumping. The standard jump button has been replaced with a button that functions like a sling shot. In order to successfully navigate the vertical challenges that await, you must pull back on the jump button which will then activate a projected target line showing you where it will launch you upon release (think Angry Birds). A successful aim and release sees you flung across the map to your destination. An unsuccessful aim and release sees you smashing into walls, bouncing off objects or worse plummeting to your doom.

It takes only a few moments to adjust to this style of gameplay and within a level or two it feels very natural. Once you adapt to the play style it becomes a satisfying platforming experience. The simplicity of the controls coupled with the clever level design create the perfect balance; a system that is easy to learn and an enjoyable challenge to master.