Toad Rider Review

Inspired by one of the hardest yet most memorable levels in any game, one would expect Toad Rider to be pretty tough. It's not, but nor does it invoke the painful joy that's become synonymous with everything connected with its inspiration: Battletoads on the NES.

Basically, Toad Rider is an Endless Runner. Players control Zody the Toad as he escapes from evil scientists while on a hover bike. Controls are easy enough with a swipe up or down dictating the direction taken. A swipe to the side initiates a dash attack that's ideal for taking out glass walls, while tapping once or twice initiates a jump. The challenge to Toad Rider comes in the form of dodging the plethora of obstacles in one's way.

At first it's just a matter of dodging red walls, and it's pretty simple to do. Soon enough, the number of obstacles grow and things become much tougher. Scientists sneak up behind Zody, requiring the player to set them up to be taken out by an obstacle. Flying scientists attempt to place obstacles in Zody's way right at the last minute, plus there's the need to keep an eye on ramps and tunnels that ensure the toad can move onto the next level safely.

It's quite an enjoyable combination of elements, even if Toad Rider isn't entirely original. A series of missions pose a set of challenges players can work towards to gain kudos and more coins, which can then be used to purchase upgrades. It's a familiar idea but one that always works well to motivate players to keep returning for more.

Toad Rider is the kind of game that's easy to dip into. It's quickly satisfying and reasonably fast-paced to keep one's attention. It might not offer anything new but sometimes familiarity is fine when it's as well made as this.