Review: Bookworm

[cjvitek]

Bookworm, by PopCap Games, Inc.
$2.99, ****

Pros:

• Challenging word game
• Easy to play

Cons:

• No multiplayer
• Limited game modes

I have said it before, I will take it again, I am not a huge fan or word games. But occasionally one will come along that captures my attention. Bookworm is just such a game.

The premise is simple - you are presented with a field of letter tiles. You need to go through spelling words with connecting tiles. As words are spelled, those tiles vanish, and new tiles fall from the top to replace them. Throw in features like bonus works, green tiles (for more points), red tiles (that "burn" through the others to the bottom) and you have the game Bookworm.

You progress through each level, getting points for spelling longer and more difficult words. As you go, you can collected various accomplishments (words types, such as body parts). There are two modes of play - classic (just a never ending puzzle) and timed (where fire blocks appear and start burning as time progresses). Unfortunately, there is no multiplayer option although to be honest with you I am not sure how it would be incorporated.

There is an area which keeps track of your stats, but unfortunately, it is limited to the highest score. I wish it also kept track of things like the longest word. You also have your library to see different types of words (like the previously mentioned body parts) you have found. The word library does add something of a long term goal to the game, as you can try to collect as many words as possible in the various libraries. One nice thing to see was that the game saves you progress, even if you exit.

All in all, if someone is a big fan of word game, they probably will enjoy this. As I said, even though I am not a big fan, I still found it fun. However, I found the game a little limiting. With only two play modes, both based on the same play time, I am not sure if I feel I could play the game long term. But for people who like games like Muddle and Scrabble may feel differently. At $2.99, the game is not that pricey and could easily be worth the expense. Four out of five stars.

Rating scale:

* = No redeeming qualities or features, probably not worth it even if it is free
** = Few redeeming qualities, or is simply isn't worth the price
*** = Some good features but also some clear flaws.
**** = A solid app, worth the money if interested, a few flaws or problems or slightly overpriced
***** = Top of the line app, no problems or drawbacks.

Price is factored into the ratings. Ratings are lowered if I feel the price of the app outweighs the benefits/enjoyment/features it provides. Likewise, an app that is a good value for the money will have a higher rating.

[quintana]

humm, looks nice!

[ctt1wbw]

Oh, it is. I play almost every day. Addictive little game.