The fatal flaw with this entry is the control scheme. Though I've adjusted quite well to an entirely touch-screen enabled phone, Centipede simply doesn't work well in this manner. Rather than a directional pad or a lovely trackball, we're stuck with a small area of the screen dedicated to a pseudo-trackball. Often times I'll accidentally hit the Back or Search button on my phone, hindering my gameplay experience. Sure, the touch-screen method works; but only barely. It's an uncomfortable, cramped experience that makes the original seem that much better.
Other than the typical leaderboards you'd come to expect from Xbox Live, the WM7 version of Centipede does link with Game Room for the Xbox 360 and PC. All high scores, records, etc. are instantly linked to this version assuming you've played it on another platform. This was a neat touch, but considering I'll never beat the scores set using my Xbox 360 it's somewhat annoying at the same time. Also odd is that fact that scores and data carry over, but the game itself has to be purchased again for another $3.00.
Visually Centipede is the same as it was thirty years ago. The core graphics are dated, but look nice when shrunk to a smaller screen. Centipede's title menu also includes a 3D model of the original arcade cabinet. One strange thing about this game is that Krome Studios is listed as the developer, as they handled Game Room. Yet I'm pretty damn certain they shut down months ago. Who even ported this game? And what does the future hold for Game Room and other classics yet to rerelease?
There are definitely worse games on the platform, but Centipede simply isn't suited for this mobile device. Whether using the default controls or the additional Tilt method, Game Room: Centipede is an unrewarding chore that should have been offered as a free incentive.
|
Graphics |
5.0 |
Centipede itself looks good, but the menus copy the annoying Game Room theme. |
|
Audio |
5.0 |
Sounds are unedited, which was great for the nostalgic side of me. But it's nothing new. |
|
Single Player |
5.0 |
Fun if you can adjust to the control scheme, but you're better off avoiding the experience completely. |
|
Multiplayer |
N/A |
Leaderboards! What an innovation! |
|
Replay |
4.0 |
Unlike the original, I won't be coming back to this Centipede. |
|
Overall |
5.0 |
Better and newer games exist for the same price. |
