Sharp graphics show the care put into the game.
Nintendo should be flattered. Rogue Planet imitates so many aspects from other strategy games--especially Advance Wars--that old fans will jump right in and new players won't even miss those originals. Rogue Planet sometimes feels derivative and occasionally makes interface errors, but that doesn't matter; it nails the turn-based-strategy genre.
In an overhead view, you'll send various sci-fi units into battle. Each has specific strengths and weaknesses, and the strategy comes from discovering and exploiting your advantages. For example, you'll want to order commando units to attack enemy tanks or retreat against incoming soldiers. There's always a way to break the game into its rock-paper-scissors components. Even though each unit gives just a few, simple options, the many combinations and differing terrain create thoughtful strategic puzzles.
Character graphics look great but appear too often.
In spite of the excellent graphics and sound, many moments caused us frustration. We like how the campaign story gradually introduces new unit types and abilities. But back aboard the crashed spaceship, the tiring dialogue distracts from the strategy. Worst of all, we sometimes plodded through levels in which we were clearly going to win; it just took another 45 minutes to actually do it.
The interface can be annoying, too. For example, we occasionally tapped on the wrong thing, since many checkboxes are tiny targets; and we couldn't easily identify which units were being carried inside a transport truck. You also can't play your own music in the background, a major omission for a slow-paced game.
Although close scrutiny reveals its problems, Rogue Planet wins in the end by sticking to strategic basics and overwhelming players with options. You can challenge a nearby friend over Wi-Fi or Bluetooth, and spend hours completing the dozens of maps.
Rogue Planet's entertaining, strategic center overpowers its shortcomings, making a fun, familiar iPhone game.
Graphics and sound are highly polished. Dozens of levels can entertain
for many hours. Core strategy occupies any thinking gamer. Can play
against a friend on a local network.
Adds little to the genre. Often have to keep playing to win a battle
long after outcome is clear. Interface occasionally disappoints.
Annoying story moments keep you away from battles. Can't play your own
music in the background. No online multiplayer mode.
