Broken Sword 5: The Serpent’s Curse (iOS, Android)
The Broken Sword series is one of the finest adventure series to date,. 2014’s Broken Sword 5: The Serpent’s Curse offered a fantastic return to the franchise roots, with gorgeous artwork and smooth point-and-click mechanics. The transition to the small screen works beautifully, and I loved the ability to save at any point. Mobile gaming is a different dynamic, so immediate save spots are essential. Notably, the first two Broken Sword games are also available, and equally as enjoyable.
Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers 20th Anniversary Remake (iOS, Android)
Gabriel Knight is akin to Tex Murphy meets Broken Sword, with an entirely unique vibe. The 1993 point-and-click classic was graced with a remake in 2014, and 2015 sees mobile versions. Exquisitely illustrated and miraculously scored, Gabriel Knight: Sins of the Fathers 20th Anniversary Remake shines on any screen, meaning size doesn’t matter. The story is conveniently split up into days, and the first day is free. I challenge you to play the first day and not immediately purchase the full game.
Republique is unique in that it was originally an iOS exclusive that then received ports to Android, Windows, and OS X. As an Android and PC owner, I was thrilled. It’s a neat game with intrigue, action, and a heroine, Hope, that looks rather like April from The Longest Journey. As the player, you interact with Hope through computers, phones, and security cameras. The first person perspective used multiple times really drew me in, and made Republique the epitome of mobile gameplay. Sorry Flappy Bird.
Zombies, Run! is an entirely different breed of game. An interactive experience, it’s a zombie narrative in action. The player is given audio instructions which vary from avoiding a horde of hungry undead to retrieving supplies. Rather than hokey, Zombies, Run! presents an enjoyable fitness game. More entertaining than crossfit, and better than a Wii Fit (yeah, I said it), it’s a true gem of a game. Then again, I’m a bit of a zombie geek. Oh, you’ve seen “Night of the Living Dead” and “28 Days Later?” Go watch “Pontypool,” then we’ll talk.
Revolution 60 (iOS) – Revolution 60 is an utter masterpiece. The N64esque animation recalls those days of chugging Surge and playing Goldeneye 64 and Perfect Dark. I quite enjoy the colorful, anime-style animation, which masterful developer Brianna Wu elucidated was inspired by Sailor Moon. If only Sailor Moon were still on Cartoon Network. My only complaint: no Android version. However, a Windows port is in the works, so it seems I’ll be able to stop borrowing my friends’ iPhones.
Did I miss any? What’s your favorite crowdfunded game to play on the go?
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