Echochrome is a great value gaming downloadBy Shaun Inguanzo and Glen Atwell
DIGITAL downloads through online console gaming services such as Xbox Live, PlayStation Network and Nintendo WiiWare have become a genre unto themselves. The games, which sell for as little as $5 each, and usually cost no more than $15, act as a platform for independent developers to reach larger audiences, as well as introducing gamers to small, casual games that offer a unique experience to larger retail games. Here’s a selection of the best on offer:
Braid – Xbox Live Arcade
BRAID is a puzzle-platformer that requires players to manipulate the flow of time to achieve objectives.
Its stylish watercolour graphics coupled with catchy Irish-inspired soundtrack and puzzling gameplay could easily see Braid released on disk and at a hefty retail price, should there be more levels added.
But fortunately for gamers, it’s available for just $20 and can be downloaded directly to your console.
Echochrome – PlayStation
MOVE the gaming world on horizontal and vertical axes to create MC Escher style perspectives that allow your Echo man to traverse from one end of the puzzle to another.
Then, create your own puzzles and upload them for the world to play.
Echochrome is one of the most addictive puzzle games since Tetris, but it requires patience and practice to perfect. Echochrome will set you back $13.
Lost Winds – Nintendo WiiWare
REMARKABLE stylised graphics and motion sensitive controls are combined to deliver one of the most unique platform gaming experiences available.
Lost Winds requires players to not only control the main character Toku, but use the Wii Remote to draw on-screen the direction that they want the wind to blow.
It will cost you $15, but is one of the most complete downloadable titles you’ll ever play. Well worth the price of admission.
