Are you gonna go for the coins, the speed, the hidden skull, or just the finish line?
Reason would have it a game called Mos Speedrun would place emphasis on expedient traversal. In truth, that only accounts for a quarter of the focus of this platformer about a coin-collecting ladybug. Despite its title, this is a speed-run-optional affair.
Each of the game's 25 levels dole out four medals for completion: one is given for simply reaching the end, and the others for finding a hidden skull, collecting every coin, or completing the level in under a certain amount of time. You can't get all four in one try, so you have to decide early on whether you want to focus on speed or collection and exploration. New levels are unlocked when you reach a certain quota of medals, allowing some choice in how to progress. I found the time-oriented challenges the most difficult, but was able to unlock every level by completing a scant few of those.
Whether you opt for the quickest path or take your time, the controls are up to task, with two input methods available. One has you hold the direction you want your avatar to run, while an extra tap causes her to jump. I found this finicky, and opted for the more sensible digital buttons. Running and jumping are your only moves, making the streamlined controls a breeze. Your ladybug will even pull herself up ledges if she's only a pixel off.
It's also a fine-looking game, with a charmingly retro 8-bit aesthetic. Environments are varied, the sprites are cute (I loved the bees), and it never gets too cluttered or hard to see.
Difficulty is handled well; most stages are easy to traverse but hard to master. The only frustration crops up when some lengthier levels place a series of their most grueling challenges right at the end. Since everything kills you in one hit and there are no checkpoints, it can be maddening when you've collected every coin in a level only to die at the end for the umpteenth time.
Mos Speedrun isn't the most innovative game out there, but it is efficient. Having four separate goals to achieve per stage gives some freedom as to how you tackle them. Smooth controls, a clean aesthetic, and brisk levels that deftly balance easy traversal with optional challenges make Mos Speedrun a fitting platformer for speed runners and collectors alike.
The bottom line. Don't let the name fool you; Mos Speedrun isn't just for speed runners. Even the most leisurely platforming fan will appreciate its elegant design, cute graphics, and refined controls.
of 5
iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad running iOS 3.2.1 or later
Different medals encourage you to vary your play style. Sprites are cute, levels are mostly short, and controls are polished. Universal app.
One-hit kills can be frustrating in some of the longer levels.
