PeaceKeeper Review

Developer: A10.com
Price: Free
Version: 1.0.1
App Reviewed on: iPhone 4S

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A genre that is typically overrun by shuffling zombies will be shaken up a bit by its newest addition PeaceKeeper, a side-on, cover-based shooter with a slight difference: these oncoming enemies are packing.

As the last line of defense between a huge army and a vulnerable city, players must hold back the oncoming waves of soldiers single-handedly. To fire, hold down a finger on the right side of the screen at the intended target, taking the character from a hidden kneeling position in the trench to a vulnerable standing position. In order to stay alive for more than a handful of seconds, players must tap up or down within the bunker itself to move their soldier to that position, therefore gaining a new vantage point and some much needed rest from the bullet shower.

Players will have to be able to multitask between warding off both long and short range attackers, whilst also ducking in and out of cover, if they are to succeed. Both types of attacks come thick and fast and present a formidable challenge. By the second level I found myself being 'pacified' multiple times before I managed to beat it. This is a game all about quick reactions and tactical takedowns. There ain't no time for a learning curve here, sonny.

This can work one of two ways for most gamers. Players will either relish the challenge and dig in their heels until they beat each level through nothing but nerd sweat and sheer strength of will, or they will be turned off immediately by the tough challenge that hits them hard from the get-go. There are no other difficulty options available, so it really depends the type of player. Then again, if players have a grenade to hand or can get enough of a breather to shoot an item box, then the tide-turner that is 'Pacifier' will certainly lend a hand.

The intercepted transmissions that play in between each round are full of witty one-liners and provide a bit of relief from the onslaught, whilst the the heavy metal soundtrack is ideal for the war-zone gunplay. The visuals are crisp and splats of blood are rife, as are the various decapitated limbs. There is only one environment to speak of though, which is a bit of a letdown.

Overall, PeaceKeeper is a solid cover-based shooter that, whilst it may not really bring anything new to the mix, doesn't do much wrong with the tried-and-tested formula either. The default difficulty settings could become an issue for more casual players, but let's face it, you're not casual at all are you? You're hardcore.