Topolon
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| Topolon

It's very rare that we can say that we're confused about a game on our mobile phone. Usually, the extent of the gameplay rarely goes beyond moving one small blob to hit another small blob.

Occasionally though, we come across games like Topolon.

Once again, the gameplay revolves around moving one small blob to hit another small blob. But like a particularly itchy scab, that really is just scratching the surface.

To get the most out of Topolon, you really need to put the hours in. Your first indication of this is when you (quite wisely) decide to head to the Help section before starting a game. And help you will need, particularly when you realise that the game's instructions are split up into seven (yes, seven) different topics.

The 'Game Brief' topic is a good place to start. Here, you find out that the object of the game is to destroy a series of electronic viruses, called Nuruons, on an electrical circuit (aka Topolon). The game then goes on to describe various other obstacles with names such as 'Megaon' or 'Puchion', but we suggest that you stop reading there and actually try playing.

Initially, Topolon continues to baffle. The game screen is made up of a series of connecting wires with 'elements' at the end of them, as well as when the wires cross. These elements are where the enemy appear and also where you can target them.

As soon as you begin a new game, Nuruons show up on the elements. If there's a spare element in-between two Nuruons, then you can head for that. Press fire, and two (or more if they're linked up) Nuruons will be drawn to the element you're on and then disappear.

With us so far? Really? Good. To be fair, when you begin playing Topolon everything makes a lot more sense, as although it's difficult to describe, the basics soon fall into place.

Complications do arise, though, when additional enemies appear on-screen. The aforementioned Megaons, for instance, come in various forms and generally make life difficult for you, as they can only be destroyed after they've been hit several times by a Nuruon.

As the levels progress, they get increasingly tougher. This is both a curse and a blessing. The former, because you're trying desperately to work out what the Hell is going on with a game made up of dots on a screen smaller than an ant's handkerchief. But a blessing, too, because the longer a round lasts, the more Nuruons you'll destroy and the higher your score will obviously be.

And the chances are that you will see the later levels, as Topolon is actually rather fun to play. Once you get the hang of the gameplay, it becomes maddingly addictive.

Sure, you can just press buttons frantically and clear most of the rounds with ease, but take it slower and more carefully, and you'll find an undeniable pleasure in building up longer and longer combos.

Topolon

Complicated at first, but the persistent will be rewarded with a fine and challenging game
Score
Dean Mortlock
Dean Mortlock
Dean's been writing about games for 15 years now and has played more than he's had hot dinners. Mind you, he does eat a lot of salad…