SPB Quads for Windows Mobile Professional

Last week we announced that SPB Software released a new game, SPB Quads.  Today we’re pleased to present you with JAMM’s review of Quads.  SPB Quads is an evolution of their SPB Quadronica game, with a few interesting twists added to the gameplay.  I’ve spent some time trying out the complimentary copy of SPB Quads on my handheld.  Grab yourself a glass of iced tea and join me to see how well the game fairs.

Installation of SPB Quads reveals that the program does consume quite a bit of storage memory, weighing in at near 12 MB.  For this reason, I recommend installing on the storage card of your device unless you have a phone with lot’s of memory to spare.  Once installed, you will find the shortcut to run the program nicely tucked into the Games menu in Programs.  First launch of Quads reveals very slick graphics consuming the full screen, with a musical score playing in the background.  Initially you’ll be greeted with options for two different modes of game play, a leveled mode called “Time Quad” and an unlimited “Ever Quad”.  Additionally, an entry for options is present, where you can refine some aspects of game play, including music and sound effects.  The demo version of SPB Quads is time limited allowing only about 180 seconds of play before the game expires and makes you relaunch, keeping each game to a minimum amount of time before automatically closing on you.  This is a bit of a nuisance at first, but you should be able to tell very quickly whether Quads is your type of game or not.

Jumping into game play presents a screen full of different colored blocks, with the occasional unique item filling a space. The screenshot below illustrates the game field as presented in SPB Quads.

While the game layout might look very familiar, you will find that the game play itself is interesting as it presents a logical problem.  To clear sections of blocks, use either your stylus or finger to select an area enclosed by four blocks of the same color.  The screenshot below illustrates an area enclosed by by shapes of like color in the corners.

As soon as you have selected an area, the section clears.  New blocks cascade down ala Bejeweled or Tetris, keeping the game play flowing. SPB Quads has interspersed a few unique game blocks that when included in the selection have some different results.  Each of these have a different effect on the game board when interacted with.  Descriptions of each is provided in the help option for SPB Quads.  The screenshot below illustrates an example help screen.

In conclusion, SPB Quads proposes a logical twist on a classic board clearing game.  Game play is simple with a slight mental challenge, allowing you to train you visual and spatial skills.  High scores can be uploaded to SPB Software’s server, allowing you to check your intellect in comparison with fellow Quadsters from the world over, so you can almost incorporate a two player aspect to the game, perhaps adding to the challenge for you.

DETAILS:

• SPB Quads is available for purchase for $9.95.
• A free trial is available here.
• More information is available here.