Hands On: Episode 1

First things first N+ is the real deal; this is a really class piece of work, very slick indeed. It got released on Wednesday the 20th of February for 800 ms points on XBLA, it will also be on the Nintendo DS and Sony PSP very soon. I have purchased the game today and so far had a go on the single player levels as well as tinkering around really quickly in the level editor.

The single player game is awesome and starting with the tutorial breaks you in really easy and quick, the graphics are basic (which is the way the game was intended to be) with the animation and feel of the character so smooth when walking and jumping around it is a real pleasure to play. From wall jumps Mario style to sliding down walls and judging gaps to prevent yourself falling to your death, this is one game that you know will have you addicted and infuriated at the same time – one of those I must finish this level types of game.

The aim is to get the exit open and get inside it before the time runs out. Collect gold which increases your time, as you only get a set amount to complete each level, a yellow bar depletes in the corner as time passes. Once this turns red you know that time isn’t on your side.  In your way you have all kinds of sinister contraptions, from gauss turrets to rocket launchers and rotating lasers, launch pads that throw you up in the air, floor guards that slide along the surface and have to be jumped over, there are in total 5 different types of drone. Bouncing blocks and doors also slow down progress as some doors can be locked or even a trap door, then the electric fences – well if that hasn’t sickened you there are mines too.  The levels are all different and start simple but soon get harder, the game has different modes such as Local Multiplayer – System Link – Ranked Match – Xbox Live Player Match. Where you get to choose co-op or Race/Survival modes, you can also join a custom match or create a private or ranked match.

Where the game is a real gem is in the Level Editor.  All the things in the single player game can be used in your own custom made levels, the editor is quick and easy to use, and has a copy area / fill area / move area / clear area feature. There are a lot of different tiles with different shapes on them and you start with a grid then just add in what you want from the selection. You can rotate the objects and if you place one you don’t want there is also an undo feature. A quick press of the Y button lets you test the level.

For 800 Microsoft point’s I think that N+ is an absolute steal with its wealth of options and modes available.  Metanet have done a great job with this game and I am already looking forward to their next game Robotology which I also hope will make it’s way to XBLA. They sure have put the fun back into games with N+ but it can also be frustrating at the same time.  Try the free demo and get this game bought, you won’t be disappointed.