Bean's Quest Review - App Of The Week

Bean's Quest Review

Ever wonder what happens when you combine retro game mechanics with an old school vibe, a Mexican jumping bean and a sombrero? Neither had we, but thankfully Melbourne indie developers Kumobius created Bean's Quest anyway.

This retro inspired platformer creates an accessible, yet surprisingly, deep experience for gamers of any age. Players fill the role of a sombrero wearing Mexican jumping bean who has a liking for jewels and pink Axolotls as they blast through the first world which is titled Grasslands.

The mechanics of Bean's Quest couldn't be any less complicated if they try; Bean is continuously jumping so all you need to do is press left or right to move him, it's that simple. While that may sound a little easy for hardcore gamers out there, Kumobius haven't forgotten about you.

Each of the eight levels has three tasks that need to be completed for 100% completion - you'll need to collect all of the jewels, find the hidden Axolotis and then finally meet the jump par requirement. Each level will have a par set for the number of jumps you should be able to complete it in. From the moment you move from the starting position each time you land counts as a jump, unless you bounce on the head of an enemy. It creates a really challenging experience that is addictive, causing bouts of rage and the sought after "just one more try" effect.

The presentation of Bean's Quest is fantastic; the graphics have an awesome retro feel that feel akin to other classic platofmers, particularly Sonic The Hedgehog. The use of bright colours really breathes a vibrant life into the game, backed up by a pulsating retro inspired musical number. The only downfall is that there is no restart level button on the game screen, something that would have been handy during the multiple attempts at completing the jump par for level 7.

The best thing about Bean's Quest however is that the game is far from over once the eight levels have been completed. Kumobius are extending the game over the next few months via free updates, bringing the full game up to 24 levels. Considering the replay value hidden in these first eight levels, we can't wait to get our hands on the final product.

Bean's Quest is fun, intuitive and ultra accessible while still providing enough challenge for even the most hardcore gamers out there. A fantastic retro inspired art style and soundtrack make this game feel right at home amongst other classic games in the genre.

Bean's Quest is on the iTunes App store for $2.99 and can be purchased here.