Solitaire Blitz Review

Previously only available through Facebook, the ever so addictive Solitaire Blitz has made its way to iOS, in its continuing bid to take up every spare moment of free time in the world. Or something like that.

The iOS version starts out much like the Facebook beta did. Rather than offering a level based structure, Solitaire Blitz is solely about beating friends's high scores. Much like Golf Solitaire, Players are presented with a row of cards that they must clear, with the remaining deck of cards, as quickly as possible. A time limit keeps them on their toes, albeit one that increases with speedy moves, as well as the threat of running out of cards. It's simple to play and only ever takes less than 2 minutes to complete.

Freemium elements come in the form of having limited lives, as well as the many bonuses that can be bought. High scores can be easier to gain when there are more Jokers available (which can be used to clear any card), as well as Mines that blow up a row of cards. Each of these cost silver to buy, with silver gained through clearing rows of cards. It's a well implemented mechanic as, with careful spending, there's rarely a huge need to buy plenty of silver. In-app purchases become tempting, instead, when one runs out of lives and wants to continue playing. It might not sound like it now, but Solitaire Blitz remains the only Facebook game that I have ever paid for extra bonuses.

On iOS, however, Solitaire Blitz isn't quite as addictive. There's an important reason behind this: Fairway Solitaire, the undisputed King of freemium based solitaire games. Currently offering more variety than PopCap's game, it's a hard fought competition. Solitaire Blitz is a lot faster to play and smoother loading, but there's more to gain through Big Fish Games's title.

I'm hopeful that the structure now seen in the Facebook version will come to iOS soon. Still, the only winner out of this is the most important person of all: the card game fan. It's a great time to be a Solitaire addict. Choice is always a pleasure.