Rogue Sky Review

Reminiscent of old classics such as Thrust comes Rogue Sky, a game that's almost as challenging as those titles of the past.

Players take the role of a hot air balloon pilot who must navigate around each level, while dodging everything from enemies to thunderclouds to heat-seeking mines. Fortunately, the game eases players in gently so all these obstacles don't appear from the first level. They're gradually introduced instead as well as the inclusion of defensive systems in the form of being able to shoot at some of the foes.

Controls take a little bit of adjustment, but they do make Rogue Sky feel distinctive. Two thruster buttons exist on the bottom of the screen with each one shooting the balloon off in its respective direction. Holding both down then causes the balloon to steadily rise. It's perhaps not the easiest of systems to master, requiring some accurate touches but it is satisfying to master. Two weapon buttons also exist which simply require a quick tap.

Navigating through each level does take some patience. It's not always easy even with the fact that players only have to get to the end to pass, with perfectionists able to collect every coin in the level if they so wish.

That's the only real downside to Rogue Sky. It is fiercely tough at times. Frustratingly so in later levels. Everything else about it is excellent with the hand drawn artwork appealing, the soundtrack worth actually listening to and the unlockable system enticing players to continue. What will put them off continuing however is that sometimes Rogue Sky feels a little too tough to be fun without infuriating them too. For those after a challenge however, this is ideal. Just try to resist throwing the iOS device out of the window with annoyance.