Chances are, if you’ve not played Doodle Jump yet, you’ve been living under a rock.
Currently jumping up high in the iTunes chart and developed by Lima Sky, Doodle Jump is evidence that sometimes the best concepts for games are the most simple.
The aim of the game is to get your bug-type-thing as high as it possibly can, by jumping up on an endless set of platforms.
The game is controlled by the iPod touch’s tilting mechanism. The bug will simply jump in whatever direction the device is tilted towards.
Being a game all about jumping, the way only way is up on Doodle Jump and should the bug-type-thing miss a platform, it will plunge all it’s way down to it’s death.
Along the way, there are several obstacles to over come.
There are several other bug-type-things and aliens that hover aimlessly, in the hope that you coincidently jump into them – doing so will result in the long fall to your death again.
Luckily your bug is equipped with the ability to spit bullets at him through his snout (this creature has a weird anatomy).
The platforms themselves also present problems from time to time. Some of them move around, panning left, right and up and down. Others will disappear once you have jumped on them or completely collapse.
The game doesn’t just throw nothing but inconvenience your way.
On some platforms you’ll find various tools that will help you in your quest to become the highest jumper. These can include springs, jet packs, trampolines and, um, springy boots (a pair of boots with springs on).
These items are spread out rather neatly and should you hit a lucky run and collect them, you can gain yourself a pretty respectable score.
Rather neatly, the developers have included the option to share your scores on Twitter and facebook, so you can see how well your friends are doing. An interesting technique that also brings a hint of competition to the mix. Seeing some one who has scored higher than you, makes you want to load the game up and try to beat them.
All in all, Doodle Jump is an addictive little title, which priced at the value as a can of soda, will entertain you time and time again.
Verdict: 9 out of 10
Based in south London, Colin has been reviewing games for the past 2 years and playing them since he owned an Atari ST. 
