Ninja Tap Review

Tuesday, August 30, 2011

Ninja Tap Review

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Ninja Tap Review

By Phillip Levin on August 30th, 2011
Our Rating:

:: SIMPLISTIC
iPhone App - Designed for the iPhone, compatible with the iPad

Tap the screen to take out ninjas while going for the high score.

Developer: Asobua Games
Price: $0.99
Version Reviewed: 1.0
Device Reviewed On: iPhone

Graphics / Sound Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Game Controls Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Gameplay Rating: 3 out of 5 stars
Replay Value Rating: 2.5 out of 5 stars

Overall Rating: 3.13 out of 5 stars

Tapping games on iOS are a dime a dozen. After all, the platform and its devices work very well for the genre, so it makes sense. Still, it can be a bit tiresome, as many of these games lack any originality or particularly impressive qualities.

When it comes to critiquing a game, though, it’s important to take into consideration the context of its development. Ninja Tap is one such game where if it weren’t for the story of its development, it would be something I probably wouldn’t glance twice at. However, because it’s the debut title from a one-man studio, I was a little more intrigued than usual.

Players are challenged to tap the screen to take out ninjas that pop up – each of which will earn players five points – and score as many points before the clock hits zero. However, they have to be careful with their reflexes, as tapping any other townsfolk that appear on screen, such as geisha or old men, will result in a loss of health points. If players lose too many health points, it’s game over. The ultimate goal of the game is to beat the previous high score. The gameplay is fast-paced and fun for the most part.

The problem here is that Ninja Tap is basically just another tap game. Is it bad? No. But it’s very simplistic in its design, and it doesn’t offer a lot of lasting appeal. There are no leaderboards or different levels, even, which is a little boring. I have to mention the achievement system, which exists, but the core gameplay itself could be fleshed out more.

Considering it was designed by one guy, Ninja Tap has high production values, which is something you have to respect. Graphically, it looks nice and the sound effects are well-done. Kudos to that, for sure.

But beyond its ultra simplistic highscore, tap-based gameplay and high production values, there’s unfortunately not a lot to Ninja Tap. It’s one of those games that’s not necessarily bad – but it’s just not going the extra mile it could have, either.

There’s evidence of good game design here, so I at least look forward to the studio’s next project. Hopefully, it’s a little more developed than Ninja Tap.