Boost 2

Boost 2, a tilt-controlled racing game by Jonathan Lanis, is simply a blast, and I mean that both literally and figuratively. The general premise is as simple as it is addicting; the player tilts their screen to navigate down a tubular track that is riddled with a myriad of glowing blocks and bars. In addition to these obstacles, there are boost strips available to increase your speed and amp up your points—if you can activate them. In general this game is addicting, but there is a bit of a learning curve in terms of controls and speed.

In a world where games like Temple Run find so much popularity, a game that requires players to traverse winding passageways and avoid pitfalls by tilting their iPhone is pretty familiar. Boost 2 offers several modes, 3 of which come standard with the 99-cent app purchase: Classic, Time Trial and Multiplayer. “Classic” finds players racking up points based on how long they avoid hitting blocks. “Time Trial”, naturally, assigns players a time limit that goes down faster when blocks are hit and goes up when boosts occur. “Multiplayer” requires a connection with Game Center, but it is a nice added feature for those who prefer a more social experience

With repetitive, survival games like these, I’m always worried that I’ll lose interest; after all, I am normally a fan of good, old-fashioned narrative. But Boost 2 makes up for it in opportunities for achievements and an ever-increasing level of difficulty. For instance, the blocks start to bounce and roll around and even link together into long strings to create larger obstacles. Even the track itself starts to morph and invert itself, adding more disorientation to the mix. The real challenge with this sort of game is trying to stay focused as long as possible; let up for even a moment and you’re done.

So that brings me to some criticism. The boosting feature (and even the opening speed) makes for a really intense feeling of momentum. It was a little daunting for me at first, but it offers an air of urgency that’s integral to the game’s success. The few negatives dealt with the various power-ups and markings you find along the way. I thought the boosts marks—strips of arrows—were difficult to activate. I also thought the trail of colored areas, meant to warn players about approaching blocks, were disorienting rather than helpful. Look at the screenshots, and you’ll know what I mean. But, once I got past the learning curve, I thought the game was really effective with a lot of satisfying achievements. If you’re into survival-based, “personal best” games then this one’s for you.