By: Pat Dunn
1112 is game based on wits, creativity, and lots and lots of patience. Being the first episode released, 1112 is only a taste of the insanely difficult gameplay to come. Should you buy it? Read the review and decide for yourself.
1112 is a point and click type of game which incorporates difficult puzzles which really make the player think hard about what to do. The game is based on a man named Louis Everett, who unmistakably resembles Johnny Depp. The point of the game is to help Louis find a reason and a cure for his reoccurring headaches and strange dreams. Playing as the stubborn Everett, the player will encounter many difficult puzzles as well as many different people such as Everett’s wife Anna.
Whether it is taking pills or fixing a water heater, the games puzzles are sure to baffle and even upset the most cunning players. Anyone who plays will have that “Ohhh that was so simple!” thought running through their minds after they solve a puzzle. I did. The game’s point and click design is an excellent use of the iPhone’s touch screen and some puzzles even use the iPhone’s accelerometer. This game also has a “how to play” section which greatly helps new players learn and pick up the game. Before this was released, everyone here at iPGN was beating their brains out trying to learn how to do simple things like looking through inventory.
Speaking of inventory, 1112 has a very unique and well animated inventory of items. Any item found can be viewed in an awesome 3-D, fully movable screen. Items can also be interacted with in the inventory and some items can be used with other items. When trying to take pills, I rotated the pill bottle in my inventory, clicked on the pills, and relieved my headache! So simple yet so hard. Another few impressive things with 1112 are the map and the saving. The map is an overhead view of where you are. For example, when in the house, the map shows all of the places you have been such as the kitchen or the bathroom, and all places can be accessed from anywhere by double clicking the room. The games save feature is also impressive because it allows multiple people to play on the same phone without erasing another’s game. A massive 6 save slots allow for extra saving as well. The game also has a “free typing” system which allows the player to talk with people by typing in what he/she wants. Unfortunately, it is hard to type something that the game actually knows. But when you find one, it is oftentimes helpful.
1112 offers some impressive graphics and visuals to the game. Once a new game is started, a very well done and impressive video is shown which is a foreshadow of what is really going on with Louis. With an almost picture like visual world, the game doesn’t have to many moving things but the things that do move, such as inventory, look marvelous. Whether it is a bottle of pills or a cell phone, the game definitely shows PSP like (or better) graphics.
Presentation & Graphics
With little to animate, 1112 can not receive a 5 star. However it definitely delivers some awesome visuals and a very impressive 3-D inventory. Even the “picture” backgrounds sometimes move and have a very clean, painted look. Overall, this game is very impressive graphically.
Sound
1112 offers some nice relaxing music to play too which is surprisingly good. Instead of getting annoyed and turning the music off, I actually enjoy it. Also, a stereo in your room allows you to change the songs. However, many songs are simply loops which can sometimes be noticeable. Other sound effects like closing a door or turning on water all sound great
Gameplay:
Very difficult and sometimes frustrating, 1112 can often defer a player from continuing to play. After solving a hard puzzle, I was reluctant to start another one! However, if you like a real challenge, this game is awesome.
Game life:
Unfortunately, after beating this difficult game, the replay value is minimal. The only thing giving this game a 3 star is the fact that it is episode one. Since this is only episode one, more episodes may cause hardcore puzzle gamers to come back for more.
Game rating:
Final word:
Although difficult and challenging, 1112 is a very impressive and well made game. It carries a hefty $7.99 price tag for one episode but it is a very good game as far as puzzle/interactive games go. Very good for hardcore thinkers, not so good for the kids or anyone who likes their sanity. Lucky for you readers, I’m insane
