Morphopolis

Morphopolis is not quite like anything you've played before . This is a game where you add legs to a dying beetle before crawling into its shell shattered to transform your next incarnation , or use twigs to cast a stick insect and then use it as a bridge .

It is a beguiling , gorgeous mix of exploration , failure , and hidden things which blends together to create a game that delights and disturbs in equal measure . And while sometimes it is a little on the esoteric side , it is still engaging enough to recommend .

Change is good

The game tells the story of an insect , scuttling around on a gorgeous 2D world full of other insects , distractions - looking plants , and seeds . Each of the five levels are broken up into a number of different screens .


Tapping other insects , and some plants , shows you what you need to find to move them out of the way . Sometimes there is a puzzle once you've found what you're looking for. Other times there is a short cutscene and a clearing of space .

Some of the hidden objects are a little too hidden , and you can tap the question mark in the corner of the screen to get a hint to root them out . No tutorials or guides for puzzles , either , so you need to work out things on your own .

The lack of hand - Holding refreshing , but it can also sometimes lead to frustration , as you stare into a puzzle without the foggiest idea of ​​what it should be doing. And that failure can quickly lead to boredom .

Change Evil

Morphopolis greatest strength is also its greatest weakness , and that's a shame . Things do get a little repetitive as well - especially when you know you are going to need to collect the orange seeds in each level , but the game does not let you grab it until you completed all other tasks it sets .

But there is enough here , from the gorgeous backdrops often intriguing puzzles , those who persevere will find one of the most extraordinary experiences smartphone and tablet gaming has to offer .