Skylanders Cloud Patrol Review
Skylanders Cloud Patrol Review
Given the popularity the Skylanders: Spyro's Adventure console game -- which uses toys with built-in RFID chips to interact with the digital characters -- it's disappointing that the series' iOS debut is a simple gallery-style shooter, paired with the kind of persistent challenge progression done best in the excellent Jetpack Joyride.
In Cloud Patrol, players take control of a mounted gun on the side of a guided airship, clearing out baddies as it moves between platforms. Tapping an enemy fires a shot from the ship’s gun, but dragging a line between enemies is much more effective, as it forms a combo chain that increases your score. It also covers the screen with your hand though, often leading to frustrating accidental collisions with game-ending bombs.
When each enemy is defeated, coins used to upgrade power-up abilities â€" like an Anvil Storm that drops metal projectiles on the entire stage â€" scatter across the screen, giving you a few seconds of collection time before moving on to the next platform. Money won’t net you the power-ups themselves, though; instead, you'll use gems earned through completing sets of challenges to purchase new moves as well as additional Skylanders. However, this happens at such a sluggish pace that it’s clear they’re meant to be gained through in-app purchases.
Skylanders Cloud Patrol isn't as unique an experience as I would have expected from the property, considering its innovative console approach, though the lack of a full port is understandable. While the game relies heavily on continued play, there isn’t anything that makes me want to come back for more; it lacks serious depth and isn't likely to hold your attention for more than a couple sittings.
The bottom line. As it stands, Cloud Patrol is a serviceably entertaining distraction, but there are plenty of better options on the App Store that don’t require the $0.99 initial buy-in.
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