World of Popus Review

Mutton dressed as lamb and a wolf in sheep’s clothing are two popular cautionary expressions, which, aside from demonstrating my borderline obsession with cutlets and chops, are particularly appropriate to one early level of World of Popus.

This indie-developed finger-sliding puzzler bears all of the hallmarks of a breezy affair - charming presentation, oddly beguiling characters, and cheerful soundtrack - yet scratch beneath the colourful surface and you unearth an unnerving challenge.

For some inexplicable reason, the inhabitants of Popus (probably located 350 miles or so northwest of Rolandoland) have deemed you God and by extension your finger is the most frightening weapon in their world.

Touching the screen shoos the lovable critters in the opposite direction, the speed at which they rove directly proportional to your digit’s proximity.

This rather novel game mechanic encourages – nay, demands – a thoughtful approach to each of the 15 wildly contrasting races, labyrinths, and chase sequences.

For example, when manoeuvring an estranged flock of wolves – sorry, sheep – across an inhospitable land teeming with shackled vermin, the natural temptation to dash to the finishing farm must be tempered, since each tiny movement affects the group as a whole.

Slide one overzealous pinky too close to the straying herd and it’s straight off the edge of a cliff.

Couple the complete absence of checkpoints with some less than forgiving physics - especially noticeable when gliding around the racing circuit - and before too long frustration sets in. And then gets you in a headlock.

The game's strict linear setup will further test your patience. Stages are unlocked one-by-one, with no freedom to skip a level if you happen to get stuck.

If you’re willing to persevere and can survive 60 seconds in a zombie infested graveyard, the satisfaction and rewards are, of course, that much greater.

Just don’t go pointing a finger at me the next time an App Store description pulls the wool over your eyes.