Melon Golf [App Store]
On searching the App Store today for new games, it’s a joy to stumble upon some great bargains. It’s been out for a few months now but the first game from developer 2Up Games has secured a firm place in my heart. Melon Golf isn’t a golf game per say, well you are judged to stay under par and there is a hole to fling your melon in. No need for your wedge, 9-iron or wood. Taking the physics approach you slingshot your melon from point A to point B.
Spanning a huge 36 “courses” (holes) and adding a bunch of unlockables, it’s a treat to see how much content they can squeeze in to such a simple and engaging title. The touch controls are spot on and the physics system really does give your melon a feel of realism. You can slingshot, swipe to spin/aftertouch the melon and pinch to zoom in.
The course designs themselves take a quasi 2D approach with plenty of pitfalls, spinning cogs and moving obstacles to keep the masses entertained. A few of the courses do require a somewhat delicate touch to score that illusive “Hole In One”, and yes, the difficulty does ramp up quite dramatically towards the later stages. Thankfully, there is a practice mode for perfectionists.
Graphically its charming to say the least. I guess you could call it the love child of Tim Burton and iBlast Moki. I’m hoping the next update would also bring some achievements via Plus+ or OpenFeint for added bonuses. There are some insane courses that deserve online recognition for those who can complete them with one shot.
Having said that, 2Up Games have put forth the vision in bringing a unique, and enjoyable game in which frustrates me enough to keep on playing to master my melon.
Outstanding Fruit! 5 stars.
