Review: Another World 20th Anniversary Edition (iPhone)

24 Oct, 2011

Title: Another World 20th Anniversary Edition
Platform: iPhone, iPod Touch, iPad (reviewed on iPhone 4)
Developer: DotEmu
Publisher: BulkyPix
Tagline: Hard as hell classic action/adventure title returns for a new generation
Family Friendly: While the game is not graphically violent and most death sequences are shown either off-screen or with a lack of blood, the difficulty will frustrate the younger crowd. Adults and teens should fare better though.

It is truly hard to believe that is has been 20 years since I first played Another World on my old PC386 clone computer back in the day. But 20 years it has been and now BulkyPix has brought this classic game to iOS devices complete with new touch controls, putting a new spin on Another World.

As I started up Another World, I found myself surprised at how clean the new coat of graphical paint made this classic look. I missed out on the 15th Anniversary edition of this title so it was a bit of a shock to see the sleeker lines and subtle details present in the backgrounds. I remember Another World being a great visual gem in 1991, and you can revisit the old graphics in here with a simple swipe gesture. It is nice to get a reference or sentimental to view the past, but I never wanted to go back after looking at these stunning visuals.

DotEmu was nice enough to include virtual joypad for the screen, but to be honest; I wanted to give the new touch controls a shot. While the screens give you an example of what your touch actions will do, I initially found the touch controls a bit muddy and unresponsive. At one point, you find yourself having to sprint for your life and I died in that area at least a half dozen times apparently because my tapping was not registering to the games liking. Slowly, I did get accustomed to the touch controls, but some might find themselves gravitating to the virtual controls after some trial and error. Don’t get me wrong. I did not hate the touch controls, but they just take some time to get an understanding of what the game wants from you.

It also does not help that while you are learning the controls, the game is making no bones about kicking the crap out of you. Another World is very similar to games like Castlevania or the recently released Bloodrayne Betrayal where it will kill you at every turn. Even the first screen of the game will have you dying if you do not realize that the game has actually started. Some of its difficulty comes from its obtuse context, as no dialog is ever present and nothing is really presented to you, instead you interpret events. Some of it will leave you pulling out your hair, but breathing a sigh of relief when you solve the puzzle.

Even while fighting through the difficulty and obscure story, Another World is like nothing you will have played in recent memory. The new graphics, colorful universe and odd mechanisms are fresh and new after being away for so long. I cannot recommend it enough to those that are looking for something to give them an on the go challenge. About the only regret I have is that I did not have the iPad version as I would have loved to see these graphics on a 10” screen. Another World is a great classic for everyone.