by Tabitha Akery

Created on: September 28, 2008   Last Updated: October 02, 2008

Optimus Apparatus is a space shooter game. Maneuver the space ship in deep outer space. Destroy enemy ships to gain ship advancements. Kill the two bosses to advance to the next board.

Rate 4 out of 5

Start out in Optimus Apparatus at the base. Transport to the different levels by clicking the icon on top. Maneuvering the ship requires both hands. Real space physics applies to both the player's ship and the enemy's ships. The w is for thrust. A, and d are left and right. S picks up ship parts left behind from destroyed ships. The arrow keys fire the weapons. There is only one cannon to start. Instructions are available at all times at the base. Practice getting the feel of the ship at base camp. Running into rock walls and enemy ships is easy. Space physics apply equally to all.

The deep space graphics pose a sharp contrast to the white rock fields. Mechanical pieces and parts offer an additional touch to the background. Each type of enemy ship is uniquely design and has different firing techniques. The space aliens were a surprise and spit out there own weapon. Everything is sharply detailed.

No annoying background music in Optimus Apparatus to distract the player. Appropriate mechanical and firing sounds keep things simple. The sounds are limited to the action on the play field. Running into rocks produces a minor crash.

The ship is hard to maneuver at first in Optimus Apparatus. It takes practice to fire and steer the ship at the same time. Especially, when trying to fire on stationary enemies. Running into rock walls occurs frequently. The physics contributes to both sides and are treated as equals in damage if contact with a rock wall is made.

Enemy ships appear at intervals. Take them one at a time and run away from large groups. It is possible to isolate one or two that have focused on the ship. Going close to the rock wall will inspire the enemy to do the same and maybe sustaining damage. The ship is automatically transported back to base when enough damage has been taken. There is no penalty for being forced back to base. All upgrades assist in proceeding to the next board.

Optimus Apparatus is a good game to play, once the learning curve has been conquered. Levels are challenging and enemy ships are unpredictable even if the same level is played. This is a game, I will definitely be purchasing. The price is well worth it for the amount of game play.

Learn more about this author, Tabitha Akery.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.