Hungry Shark Evolution Review

The Hungry Shark games have coined their own genre: the eat em up. Hungry Shark Evolution is the latest in the series with more of a focus on in-app purchases and some adjustments to the control method.

For those yet to experience a Hungry Shark game, the idea behind Hungry Shark Evolution is simple: swim around the ocean while eating up smaller fish and unfortunate scuba divers, while dodging mines and fighting the dangers of starvation. Sharks need plenty to eat at all times so the player must keep the shark fed regularly.

Simple gaming mechanics are invoked here. Tilt controls steer the shark around with a tap on the screen initiating a boost, thereby enhancing the shark's speed briefly. It's the kind of gameplay that a small child could pick up easily, let alone an adult. The lack of any other control method such as a virtual d-pad is an irritant, however, especially for those who prefer to game while on the move. The tilt controls, at least, are pretty effective and appropriate calibration seals the deal.

The sole purpose behind Hungry Shark Evolution is to evolve. 5 shark species are available in all, with players able to either buy their way into an upgrade or grind their way to the top, eventually unlocking some rather huge shark breeds. Upgrades mean a faster, bigger or more powerful shark which, understandably, makes the game rather more interesting than the weakling starter shark. It's this trickling effect of bonuses that keep players playing for far longer than one would expect of such a basic concept.

The in-app purchases are plentiful, with both continues and currency available to buy, but neither feels vital for success. It's perfectly possible to grind one's way to victory and feels more satisfying for it, too. Hungry Shark Evolution might be a very simple idea but it's fun to take down a plethora of fish or scuba divers in one combo, and oddly calming too! It might falter for extended sessions but as a game to dive (pun alert) into, it does the job.