The first thing I loved about the new Parachute Panic ($.99) app is that the developers went deliberately low-tech with the game's hand drawn graphics, designed to stand out from all of the App Store clutter. They took the basic stick figure animation concept made popular by "Falling Balls" then built it out to the extreme. A simple strategy that's already getting Parachute Panic the kind of massive attention that's helped propel it into Top 10 App Store status almost overnight.
Several early reviews from the gallery of ultra-noobs complain that the game-play "gets way too hard too fast". While that complaint may be true for some whiny shaved apes, this game would be ditched instantly by most if it was too easy. Making the word "panic" an important part of the experience.
Parachute Panic does several things right, the game-play is addictive and easy to understand, the animation is brilliantly executed, and they include a quirky unexpected soundtrack to begin and the end the game. Sending a clear message that they don't take themselves too seriously. A genius move in my opinion! Though I do think the stark guitar notes during the frantic game-play is a tad underdeveloped and should be re-imagined in future updates.
Call me insane, but I believe Parachute Panic has the potential to nurture a rabid community of loyal followers if they invite iGaming nerds to build the storyline and character development like Bolt Creative has accomplished with their epic Pocket God app. The idea of users creating new art for this game and shaping it's evolution could make it an enduring classic for months to come.
This fast action, stick figure thrill ride has plenty of room to grow if developers listen to their audience and respond. Parachute Panic is a certified iPhone juggernaut, it's an original idea that should cause cult of iPhone fanatics to cheer out loud like a pack of school girls at a Jonas Brothers concert.
I bought Parachute Panic at full price and was not disappointed one bit, because it doesn't suck. Which is saying a lot for someone who truly blows at playing these kinds of games. My all time high score is 19 which reminds me that I'm best suited for extreme Tic-Tac-Toe.
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