Review

HTK Technologies has released Infestation, a shoot-em-up game of epic proportions. "The general sent you to bomb an alien infested area, unfortunately your spaceship falls. Assuming that you'll be dead soon and he'll get the permission to bomb that area, he tells you that it will take 20 days to get you back... Can you prove he's wrong?"

This game can be summed up in one word: survival. Using a varying array of weapons, your job is to survive alone by eliminating any threat of aliens… and I guarantee you will have your hands full!

Graphics: The graphics in this game are very pleasing. The loading screen and even menus are very nicely done, although the in-game menu is a bit too small. The gameplay graphics are perfectly executed, with crisp colors and a variety of eye candy.

Sound: Excellent. The sound is not slow or choppy, and the realistic nature of the sounds adds immensely to the gameplay. From the ringing sound of a shotgun, to the sound of aliens splattering blood on the ground, Infestation has got your ears covered.

Gameplay: A very unique twist is apparent in this non-classical shooter. The camera angle is from the sky and you must maneuver yourself around using one of three different methods. 1) Use the D-Pad and buttons on your PocketPC to move around and shoot. 2) Use your D-Pad to move in cardinal directions and the on-screen arrows to turn yourself about. 3) Use the stylus to move yourself around and the buttons on your PocketPC to shoot. The easiest way that I found was to use the D-Pad as the standard form of control, as it is hard with the other two options to run backwards.

The game also includes 5 different weapons: a regular gun, a Shotgun, a Rifle, a Flamethrower, and a Laser. The last two weapons are locked and can be accessed by completing Arcade Mode on Easy and Hard difficulties.

Additionally, there are two game modes: Arcade and Survival. In Arcade mode, the soldier must kill 20 aliens on the first day, and then 3 additional aliens per day after that. You get a little break after each day. In Survival, they just keep comin'.

While playing the game, I noticed that my hands quickly got tired while moving myself about the gaming area. Don't get me wrong, this is a fun game and the navigation system is designed well, but the fun for me didn't last more than 20 minutes. This is also a very difficult game, at least for me. In Arcade Mode, I managed to rack up 857 kills. In Survival mode, I got up to 314.

Overall: I think this game deserves some sort of award. It is probably the most original game I have played for PocketPC and the graphics are stunning. Though navigation can be difficult at times, the game is definitely entertaining. If you are looking for a fantastic way to waste time and have fun while doing it, get Infestation. You won't be disappointed.

Infestation is available for free trial or purchase for only $9.90.

- netipaq