Independent developer 2D Boy has proved that a little bit of originality and innovation can go a long way towards producing a fantastic title. The former Electronic Arts employees have put together a truly enjoyable, vibrant and unique experience in the form of this puzzle solving gem.
Anybody who enjoyed the old classic Lemmings is sure to appreciate World of Goo.
The objective behind every level is to get a certain amount of goo balls to safety. This is achieved by sticking them together in unique ways in order to create moving structures, or “goo towers”. One has to manipulate the goo towers in different ways in order to navigate the different levels.
There are a variety of different goo ball types, all of which have unique properties. For example, some goo balls will behave like slimy mucus, while others will retain a rubbery solidity. Some will be prone to catching alight, while others will be reusable.The player will often have goo ball-balloons which float and can be used to support or even carry goo structures through the air.
The possibilities are virtually endless, with the only real obstacle being the player’s own imagination. The levels provide the player with limited additional props, so for the most part the goo balls are the only tool at your disposal.
There will be spikes and spinning cogs to negotiate, which if touched, will instantly destroy whichever part of the goo structure leant over to far.
The reason World of Goo shines, is that apart from its simple yet enjoyable concept, it is backed up by a superb technical department. The in game physics are brilliant, with gravity taking its toll on tall unstable structures causing them to sway ominously from side to side. Wind will also affect the way your goo structures behave, and combined with a realistic sense of weight, factors such as tension and elasticity all come together to make up a game that largely revolves around pushing the limits of physics.
The controls are simple and intuitive, requiring no input beyond the mouse. The graphics are bright and cartoony, and the brilliant artistic visual and audio design leaves a certain lingering “Nightmare before Christmas” flavor.
There is also a vague yet amusing storyline that follows you through the ever changing levels in World of Goo. This is a nice touch, and adds even more personality to an already engaging and vibrant experience.
The final beauty of World of Goo is that it will run on almost any PC. It also costs just $20 (R210) and comes in the form of a measly 65Mb download.
Having played through it just once, I chalked up over eight hours of game time, making it a reasonable length for its price.
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