Qix Galaxy Review

Qix Galaxy is a fancier looking version of the classic game of Qix. Essentially, it adds a kind of story to the familiar concept as well as improves upon the graphics. Unfortunately, it also includes a number of freemium elements that may prove off-putting to some.

For those unacquainted with the concept, Qix Galaxy requires players to clear a certain percentage of the screen by fencing off the rest of the area. Unlike typical Qix games, Qix Galaxy has more of a purpose behind it, given that players must block off an area surrounding a planet. The format is the same, though. The player controls a spaceship and drags a finger around to direct it. Blocking off areas offers a certain risk/reward system with various obstacles setting out to thwart one's efforts. Often, it's best to clear small areas and chip away at the stage rather than separate large sections all at once.

The controls are pretty simple to learn here and lend themselves well to the touch screen format. However, that doesn't mean that Qix Galaxy is an easy game. It's often quite tricky, although a slew of upgrades that can be gradually purchased with in-game coins do help matters. Tying into a loose storyline, Qix Galaxy offers increasing challenges such as missiles that home in on the player's ship if they don't move fast enough.

It's a fairly typical Qix game otherwise though, and quite fun. Unfortunately it also offers the main supply of freemium elements that few people are fans of. Ads clutter the screen after each level, and there's an energy type system in the form of lives that can slow one's progress. There are different currencies available too, such as one that allows for a continue in-game once defeated, as well as the currency used for upgrades. Inexplicably, there's no Game Center support either so players are only going to be able to share high scores through Facebook.

Qix Galaxy is still enjoyable enough, but those issues are an occasional problem. They detract from the general experience and will easily make fans long for the simplicity of the original.