Yet another of deceptively simple XBLA offerings. N+ is a follow-up to a little-known Flash phenom developed by MetaNet.
I believe even 2D games have a home in this increasingly high-tech industry but N+ just didn't seem to have what it took to keep me hooked. I was wrong.
I'm quickly getting hooked on this game, not just because it's about a ninja (ninjas > pirates) but simply because it's a game that doesn't get you wound-up trying to figure out complicated control schemes. You're not distracted by storyline and flashy graphics, either (though some would say that's a minus, not a plus). Instead, the action in N+ revolves around having puzzle-solving prowess, quick wits, and nerves of steel. You need to make fast decisions to get out of tough binds.. or die an ugly death, again and again.
The physics in N+ are something we all take for granted in the fancy-schmancy games of today. In N+, the physics are truly at the core of the gameplay. Mastering mid-air adjustments, bouncy-block jumps, projectile dodging, and "spelunking" are some of the many skills you'll need to stay in the fight in this game.
In essence, N+ is a puzzle game in action wrapping but it's more than that, it's a refreshing break from the myriad of look-alike titles of today. It's an addictive retro-style game with polished graphics and performance. It's just the thing an old-school Prince of Persia, Super Mario Brothers, Pitfall, or Donkey Kong fan should appreciate.
The main gameplay in N+ revolves around avoiding/disarming traps, collecting gold (which also extends your life bar), and reaching the exit in as fast a time as possible. Most levels are simple: you flip a switch, then you run to the exit. Your secondary objective is collecting as much gold as possible. Of course, your primary focus is staying alive or else your efforts are all wasted!
N+ comes with tons of episodes out of the box. Each episode packs five challenging levels. There's tons of user-generated content, which adds to the fun and replay value. The level editor is one of the best around. Even the biggest game-designing noob can work the editor - YAY!
A few things do keep me from giving this game the 9.0 or 9.5 it probably deserves. While this is a pure platformer with tons of addictive fun, I find that the challenge progression is erratic. One level will be super easy and then the next level can be insanely difficult. That leads to much frustration and flying peripherals.. Yogi SMASH!!!
Multiplayer and online play is there but needs some retooling. I notice a lot of lagging and sync issues in the Race modes. COOP seems to play all right, for the most part. In spite of the technical difficulties, it's fun trying to complete a level before your opponent does or working with teammates to get past a tough level.
The lack of online competitors can be daunting at times but eventually this game will catch on. I can see it becoming a bargain pick-up at 400 points. By then, it should spread like wildfire.
BTW, Nick, I know I was tough on this game when you first introduced it to me but I'm glad you did! I was worried it was a gimmicky game that lacked substance (plus i detest platformers as they tend to be more tedious than fun). The novelty of suiciding to see how the ninja dies still has not worn off for me but the real fun comes in making split-second decisions and avoiding certain death.
Overall, anyone that appreciates a good challenge, solving puzzles, thinking on your toes, and occasionally tossing your controller against a wall should try out N+. Trust me, you'll love it and hate it at the same time! ;o)