Paperboy: Special Delivery – Review

By
On November 11, 2010

App Type: Uncategorized

Paperboy: Special Delivery – Review

Our rating:

By: Glu

Version #: 1.0.0

Date Released: 2010-11-03

Developer:

Price: 4.99

User Rating:
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Admittedly, I missed the last time Paperboy was available as a game in the App Store (for some reason, it was pulled relatively quickly). Fortunately, Glu came to the rescue with a new version based on the class 80’s arcade game.

Unlike the original, this version actually has a plot, albeit flimsy. In the end, you’re a paperboy riding your bicycle down the street and you have to throw the paper either in the mailbox or on the porch of your customers. There are more points if you do damage to the houses of non-customers (breaking windows, etc). In the age of digital publication, the game does feel a little dated.

You can play the game in story mode (for those who like plots) and classic mode (for those who don’t). There are three different ways to control steering for the Paperboy: buttons, tilt and a joypad. I experimented with buttons and tilt and found both equally difficult to steer, although that could be a point of the game. The app does have a decent help section to learn exactly how to play.

For the retro graphics, the price seems a bit high (and I say this after paying full price for it). There used to be a 3D version of the game available in the App Store and it would have been nice to play that version. I’d recommend waiting for the price to go down (and it likely will) before making the investment.

Quick Take

Value:Medium to High

Would I Buy Again:Most likely.

Learning Curve:Medium.

Who Is It For:Retro video game enthusiasts.

What I Like:Good replication of the original.

What I Don't Like:Difficult to use the controls. Price.

Final Statement:If you're a fan of 80's arcade games, then I got your delivery right here.

Read the Developer's Notes:
A veritable classic from the golden age of video gaming returns to a new route on the iPhone/smartphone/mobile platform! The arcade game you remember from the 80's has been brought back to life with updated graphics and a new Story Mode with more forgiving game-play mechanics. 
As the Paperboy, you'll fight for customers against the enigmatic "Grifter." Successfully deliver papers to the customers on your route, scoring bonus points for landing papers directly in their mailbox. You'll have plenty of obstacles to contend with along the way: avoid dogs, cars, burglars, breakdancers, trash cans, runaway lawnmowers and more! 



As you play through the story, you'll acquire different skills and abilities - like yo-yo and multi-paper throws - to get help you through challenging areas. Pay attention for clues as the story unfolds - will you get the girl? Who are the mysterious paper barons trying to muscle in on your turf? All will be revealed in this humorous, nostalgic and faithful re-creation of the 80's classic!



FEATURES



- An update that retains the humor and core gameplay of the original 80's stand-up arcade classic



- Easy controls make pick-up-and-play a snap: turn left/right, speed up/slow down, throw papers. 



- Funny, engaging storyline set in the 80s, supported by new obstacles, gameplay enhancements and characters. 20 story levels in all!



- A NEW, easier STORY Mode in addition to CLASSIC Mode - just like the original!



- Refined artwork and graphics make for a deeper, richer and more 3D experience than ever before.



- Develop your paperboy character by unlocking 10 special skills and abilities in Story Mode such as the yo-yo throw or multi-paper throw.



- GAME CENTER LEADERBOARDS Hit bullseye deliveries and other obstacles to get higher scores and dominate the global leaderboards.



- Special Halloween theme in the story mode. Trick unsubscribers by smashing their windows!

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bradt has written 504 awesome app reviews.