Concentrix
by Scalene
Software, Price: $9.95
Reviewed April 2004 by Tony Peak
Scalene Software's Concentrix is perhaps
the one time when circular thinking isn't a problem, but
rather a requirement. The easiest way to describe it is the
classic block formula in 360 degrees with rings. On its own
this would be an interesting concept, but Concentrix goes
all out with 8 game modes including Tetrix, Dr. Trix, and
unique modes like RingTrix.
One of the most difficult parts of playing
Concentrix can be deciding on a game type. Tetrix and Dr.
Trix play pretty much like the classic games laid out in
ring format. In Tetrix you must make an entire ring, while
in Dr. Trix you must clear special blocks by building or
aligning colored layers. Because the game formats are well
known, they make an easy entry point into the circular style
gameplay.
From here one can move comfortably to the
rather original RingTrix, where you rotate entire rings to
form color groups. Quick thinking, the ability to quickly
scan color groups, and good planning are a must to survive.
BlokTrix, RadTrix, and CoolTrix pretty much just continue
variations on the theme, though BlokTrix might deserve special
mention. It strikes me as the middle ground between Tetrix
style and RingTrix style. The newly added RainTrix and TriTrix
in 1.1 version plays on different color and shapes scheme
that add more aspects of fun to the game.
Controls on Concentrix focus on staying
simple and out of the way. Although there is nice on screen
controls, the hardware keys are recommended. Left and right
rotate the ring clockwise / counterclockwise, while up/down
or a hardware button cycles the ring shape. The way a ring
changes when cycled it takes a while to get used to, and
honestly sometimes seems to follow no real logic… but
it's not hard to get used to and it's all about the gameplay.
The rings cycle as to allow the most possibilities with each
piece.
Graphically, I'm quite impressed. Everything
looks great, but it's the little visual cues that make great
graphics functional. For example, the background isn't a
smooth gradient but rather bands of color. These bands act
as grooves or gridlines to the eye and really enhance the
gameplay. The ring segment colors are thankfully bright and
stay clearly discernable even in large groups, something
that's do or die for a block game played in 360 degrees at
once. Although there's only one music track, it's really
good and avoids wearing thin too quickly. It's also very
distinct, which is more than I can say for many soundtracks
and a big plus in my book.
Concentrix offers something new and fun
for those tired of the same old formula. This is a great
example of what I like about Pocket PC gaming, you never
know when an original title like this is going to crop up.
The attention to detail and really listening to the community
is what makes the experience so unique. As the first release
from Scalene Software, it proves they're right on track.
I expect great things to come, and I know they have every
intention of delivering.
Playing Hints and Tips
-The best strategies come right from the
other players. Concentrix features highscore uploads and
has a unique feature that allows you to download and replay
any high score game. Just go to www.scalenesoftware.com,
visit the Scores section, and follow the instructions to
download the replay to your game. Now you can actually see
how the top scoring players did it. |
