Kairosoft's space exploration game Epic Astro Story touches down for iPhone
Warp speed to colony-building
Japanese developer Kairosoft is something of an acquired taste.
The graphics of its games are sprite-based and retro, while the gameplay is simulation-heavy, putting you in charge - variously - of a game development company, a formula 1 team, a cruise liner etc.
Its latest release for iPhone is Epic Astro Story. which was released for Android at the end of 2011.
In this, you're sent into space to colonise planets, forge alliances with alien races, and battle with all manner of ferocious monsters.
Make it soGameplay-wise, there are two main elements - construction and exploration.
To sustain your colony you need to generate revenue by manufacturing goods, attracting tourists, and exporting items. This means you'll need an effective transport network, with roads linking all of your buildings.
You explore by sending your Away Team to find and conquer new areas.
Damien McFerran certainly enjoyed the game, giving the Android version a Gold award.
He commented that Epic Astro Story pulls together the very best qualities of Kairosoft's output: it's painfully addictive, surprisingly deep, thoroughly rewarding, and boasts a pixel-heavy retro look that's both appealing and archaic at the same time.
Epic Astro Story is out now for iPhone, priced $3.99, €2.99 or £1.99.
