There are many role-playing games (RPGs) for iOS devices, like Solomon’s Keep or Battleheart, but nearly all are focussed on casual gameplay; something you’d pick up for a few minutes to pass the time. Although by no means unique, the iPad-only Companions is cut from a different cloth, and if you’re a fan of traditional fantasy RPGs like Wizardry, Dungeon Master, and Bard’s Tale, you’ll appreciate the depth and breadth of the storyline and gameplay.
Familiarize yourself with the tutorial -- where you’ll learn each of your four characters’ unique abilities -- as this is a complex game that requires time to master and hours to complete. Once you’ve had enough practice, it’ll be time to start the campaign, which unfolds like you’re reading a story. After choosing one of three professions for each of your characters, you'll start with a minotaur looking for his father and other missing members of his clan. You later switch to an elf, then a dwarf, and finally an ambitious human mage, and this slow introduction helps you better understand each character. Shortly thereafter, all four meet up and you command them as a team.
Matters can get confusing in the heat of battle with the dwarf setting traps, the human casting spells or healing his companions, the elf summoning dragons and shooting arrows, and the minotaur pilling into anything that moves. Thankfully, you can slow down the action by tapping on a sand timer at the top of the screen, and for a few seconds, you’ll have time to think more clearly and steer your companions to victory. On that note, you’ll probably fail more often than not, as one fallen comrade can end your game. Thankfully, you can save a session at any time, allowing you to go back and try a different strategy.
The first map will keep you busy for a few hours, but this is by no means the sole story: the adventure goes on, and you’ll be fighting zombies and dragons, as well as working alongside iron golems. There’s also a promise of a free additional campaign map featuring the dwarven fortress, which will conclude the campaign in the near future. And if you’re intrigued but want to try before you buy, there’s a free version available called Companions Lite that includes the training section and first campaign map.
The bottom line. This is an immersive role-playing game that will keep you busy for hours, if not days. If you’re into casual gameplay, look elsewhere; but if you like depth to your adventures, you may love Companions.
iPad running iOS 4.2 or later
Lengthy and immersive gameplay. Plenty of skills to learn. Many items and secret rooms to find.
Can be tricky to control your characters, especially during combat. Requires a lot of patience and perseverance.
