Review: PT Devoids

I probably should not admit to all of this, but I grew up as part of the first video game generation. I can still remember getting Pong and the Atari 2600 for Christmas when they both first came out. There was nothing like feeling the joy of having the top of the line 2-color, 2-dimensional, line-graphics-only video game and knowing that I was the top dog amongst all the other kids in the neighborhood because of it. As a result, when I find a potentially nostalgic video game, or an updated one with a new twist on an old classic game, I like to give it a try. This why PT Devoids caught my eye. It looks like it puts a modern overhaul on the classic game of Asteroids (one of my personal favorites when I was 10 years old). I have been let down by games like this in the past, so I will share with you if PT Devoids can live up to the classic or should be blown to bits.

Overview

When you first start the game, you are asked to assign the buttons you want to use to move, shoot, and accelerate. You do have the option to use a stylus to move left and right, but all others must be assigned to a hardware button. Touchscreen and non-touchscreen phones are supported.

Once this is completed you are able to start the game. I have to admit that I was a little impressed with the graphics of the game on my PPC-6800. The explosions looked pretty good, as did the textures for the background, the ships, planets, and especially the asteroids. In fact, the planets, moons, and the background are generated fractual textures always giving the game a fresh look.

There are few twists in the game when comparing it to the original Asteroids. First, the actual asteroids do not kill you instantly, but they do take their toll and get in the way when fighting the enemy. In the original Asteroids game the only goal was to live ... avoid the asteroids and avoid the alien space ships. And ‐ oh, yeah — blast everything in sight. In PT Devoids the main goal is to seek out and destroy the enemy ships and then salvage them for potential parts or technology that will improve your ship ... while blowing up everything you can.

Gameplay

The game is true to the fact that you are free floating in space with only thrusters to maneuver with. This takes a little practice to get down, but once you do, you will be able to home in on any object you have your sights on with relative ease. I have to admit that my first impression of the actual game play was not one that just jumped and grabbed me. But after playing the game for while, it does start to grow on you, especially once you master the skills of steering and moving. I have even found myself playing it while on the plane this last week and really enjoyed the time it took away from my flight.

At $9.99, it is priced just about right for the quality of the game. It is fun to look at and fun to play.

Just the facts

• Up to 100 levels
• Over 30 aliens in unlimited combinations
• Real time fractual generated backgrounds and planets