Inspector Gadget

This is a platform game of the popular tv show Inspector Gadget. Graphics and sound remain true to the series and are really well executed. The game play however, makes this a real disappointment to loyal fans.

The graphics on this game are as you would expect from such a big name. They are crisp and clear, fun and true to the cartoon. I had such hopes for this application because I was always a fan of Inspector Gadget, and I really could not wait to get my hands on to it.

Loading it I thought 'wow this is gonna be fun' and the anticipation was quickly replaced by disappointment.

Unfortunately, I'm not really sure why they bothered to put it on the iPhone platform. In no way does it use any iPhone features. Really disappointing. The navigation is so awkward, and uncomfortable to use. Someone one should have done a little research into how the iPhone platform is different to a PSP or similar, and made something specific to this platform. There are three lives in the game and that is it, meaning your game is over, no extra lives or bonuses.

The characters are cute and the umbrella and other Gadget typical items are great. You can also play as the other characters which is a good idea. Also cute was if you leave the character standing he has some cute little movements. You can also crouch to avoid enemies which is good. The hidden enemies are also a nice point of the game.

I couldn't see an auto save on this game which can be annoying. The options they have is to see high scores, get more games, about and help. Options you can choose to have sound enabled or not. You can also choose from 6 languages which is good.

When you get though the opening screen and choose your music preference, you then can resume game or quick play. New game just launches new as you would expect, and quick play you choose the level you want to enter into. You can pause in game and return to the main menu, but there does not seem to be a way to save that progress, you just have to start the levels again.

The whole thing has a feel of 'corporate', and no loving went into it, towards the fans or Mr Gadget himself. It really has the makings of a superb game if they take some feedback, which I hope they do because I still would really like to play this game.

Overall you would have to be a really die hard fan to appreciate this game. I couldn't go back to it because the controls were not user friendly. I found myself not wanting to play it because it made it awkward. They need to take a leaf out of Archibald's book (platform game with intuitive controls) to execute this into an enjoyable game.

Lastly to add, I have seen some positive reviews on the Internet for this game, I wonder if they have actually played it before making their decisions.