Cordy Review

Posted by Rob Rich on August 8th, 2011
+ Universal App - Designed for iPhone and iPad

Developer: SilverTree Media
Price: FREE/$1.99
Version: 1.51
App Reviewed on: iPhone 3GS

Graphics / Sound Rating: starstarstarstarstar
Gameplay Rating: starstarstarstarstar
Playtime Rating: starstarstarhalfstarblankstar
Replay Value Rating: starstarstarstarhalfstar

[rating:overall]

Platformers seem to be in short supply on the iOS platform. I don't mean "runners" or "puzzle-platformers," I'm talking about full-fledged platforming games. Mascots, collectibles, bosses - the whole shebang. I believe the reason there aren't all that many is because it can be very tough to create functional, responsive controls for a game like that without the use of physical buttons. Yeah, Cordy totally does all that.

A tiny electronic planetoid in the vicinity of Earth has gone dark, and it's up to the titular little robot to bring light back to his home. If the first few levels that are available (with more unlocked via in-app purchase) are any indication, Cordy is in for one heck of a ride. This game packs a bevy of features made popular by some big-name titles, but it does so with a style and technique all its own. The little 'bot can use inertia and speed to break through some walls and floors, time jumps while going up hills for maximum height, use his power chord to swing from anchor points and more. Of course, thanks to that pay wall there are 42 levels that can't be accessed without plunking down some cash.

Cordy's abilities are largely context-based, so UI clutter is kept to a minimum: Left, Right, Jump and Action. Even better, the buttons can be switched to an invisible mode in the options so that absolutely nothing disrupts the visuals. And oh boy, those visuals. The world is whimsical and vibrant, with bright colors all over the place and stage elements that often intertwine with the player's path, making what could have been merely a good game feel like one people show their friends when they want to prove that their iPhone/iPad/iPod is a viable gaming platform. Plus, players can spend some additional coinage to personalize their Cordy with different colors and hats (*squeeee!*)

The only thing that mars the experience is all the the cost of all this stuff. In all honesty I have no problem with the $2 price tag because from what I've seen this game is well worth it. However the price of Cordy's various outfits border on ludicrous. Seriously, a few of the pieces (pieces) cost more than the actual game. I mean, wow.

I'll say it again: Cordy is a fantastic platformer and a stellar iOS game. The controls are fluid, the visuals are wonderful and the levels all beg to be played over-and-over again in order to nab a full trio of stars (one each for completion, speed and gear collecting). The rather ludicrous prices for hats and such are a bit of a buzz-kill, but absolutely none of that stuff is required to enjoy this game. Try it for free, then love it and buy it.

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iPhone Screenshots

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Cordy screenshot 1 Cordy screenshot 2 Cordy screenshot 3 Cordy screenshot 4 Cordy screenshot 5

iPad Screenshots

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Cordy screenshot 6 Cordy screenshot 7 Cordy screenshot 8 Cordy screenshot 9 Cordy screenshot 10
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