Size Really Does Matter!
Small Space by rocket5studios is a simple yet charming game with an interesting approach that really deserves some credit. Even if the entire premise of the gameplay is a bit shallow, that’s not necessarily a bad thing here. It’s all about risk versus reward in a seamless “pick up and play” kind of way. This is something not often seen in arcade games of this type, which are typically packed with rigid objectives and tasks that must be accomplished; Small Space instead leaves that entirely up to the player.
In Small Space you basically move a little ship around and collect “yummies” and as you collect them the little space ship grows bigger and bigger until it becomes a huge spaceship in a small space. Similar to Spore™ Origins except extremely simplified and without all the microbiological hazards. The object of the game is to simply collect as many “yummies” as you can without dieing, then bumping into the transfer object (which looks like a vintage 60’s futuristic robot) to end the level and you are free to do so at any time, no matter how many “yummies” you collect. There is also two other objects on the playing field to watch out for – a black hole which steals your collected “yummies” thus shrinking the little ship back to its original size, and a cute little bomb which detonates if you bump into it, meaning game over for you.
It’s not the most exciting gameplay experience ever, but then again it’s not trying to be either. Instead Small Space sticks to a simplistic formula that is dialed in perfectly for a casual pick up and play game. It’s not very deep, but it certainly is compelling, and most importantly fun. The risk verse reward mechanic is really what the gameplay experience is all about. In that the player have to decide between moving on to the next level with all the “yummies” they have collected so far, or risk hitting the bomb or black hole whilst trying to grab a few extra “yummies” before proceeding to the next level.
As cute as it is charming, Small Space has a style that is appealing and satisfying. There’s not much substance or variety to the game’s presentation, but it’s got a noticeable personality that is witty and fun. Not to mention a great audio experience too, that is very fitting for the game’s atmosphere.
The controls work about as well as to be expected. When you drag your finger or thumb around on the screen the little ship will immediately move towards it. I would have liked to have seen some tilt controls in here as well with the option to choose between the two, but that can easily be added in a future update.
Small Space also comes correct with Openfeint integration, and all of the social features we have come to expect (achievements & leader boards).
iFanzine verdict: All an all Small Space is just simple fun delivered in a casual pick up and play kind of way. Okay, it’s nothing groundbreaking, but if you’re looking for a simple game that’s a lot of fun (and free!) make sure to check this one out.
[xrr rating=3.5/5]