Platform:Wii U eShop, Developer: UFO Crash Games, Publisher: EnjoyUp Games
Disclaimer: the code for this Wii U game was obtained for free, from a source that had obtained it for free from the developer.
Porting mobile games to HD screens can often be an intimidating task, how will our models look in 1080p? How is the sound quality through a large sound system? Is there enough content to justify a large price? Well, In general, UFO Crash Games has done a very admirable job of achieving this with FullBlast.
FullBlast is a top down Shoot-em-Up that made the transition from iOS and Android devices to Wii U's eShop. The player, and a friend if so desired, blast (seriously get used to this pun) their way through 12 levels that each have a number of areas, sub bosses and bosses. It's all standard fair, but that's not to say the game isn't fun, because it is, it's just really difficult to explain why!
Upon loading up FullBlast you are blasted (can't help myself) with the touted “Heavy metal Soundtrack” which consists of a couple short loops of recorded music. The quality of these instrumentals is very good but they feel slightly out of place to me, plodding metal seems more suited to a slower, more grand game whereas a quick paced techno track for example would add pace and intensity to the situations that the player is facing. It's a minor gripe but something that does affect the experience you have with the game.
On the other hand the art style and general graphics looks great, the models are well made, the effects look nice and the game runs at a perfectly locked frame rate which is very important for a game in this genre. I really liked the old school style of delivering your mission through a small dialogue box with the characters picture in the corner. Although it's very clear that the developers don't speak English as their first language “Those Dammit Aliens!” anyone?
The game includes 3 difficulty settings though for the most enjoyment you really need to play on Hard mode, some in game achievements (only 5 however), local co-op, off-tv play and a full set of offline and online leader-boards which is probably the most important feature for the longevity of the game.
Overall, there isn't a great deal to say about FullBlast, it's a fun, if rather generic, shoot-em-up that can give most players a challenge but really lacks the variation to sit with the big boys.
Final Verdict: There is lot worse on the Wii U's E-shop, if you like the genre or want something to play locally with a buddy, Full Blast may be for you, Just bring your own music.
6/10
By Contributor Dave "@EofGizmo" Bellringer