App Review: Topple Ball Mini

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The other day the full version of Topple Ball was released upon the App Catalog. However, we'll be reviewing Topple Ball Mini simply because it's available everywhere WebOS is but, most of the features will be very similar. Basically Topple Ball is one of the first games available that takes advantage of the accelerometer in "tilt to play" way. Which, can be a bit of a treat given the tools Palm gives developers.

Graphics

The look and feel of Topple Ball Mini is very well done. It has the look of an arcade type game like pinball but, way more elegant. The background gives the idea of a tabletop, while the ball looks more like a marble.

Sound Effects

Sound effects in this game are overall, well done and they usually suit the action. However, there isn't actually any game play music so it can become dull at times.

Controls

As I mentioned above you control the game by turning your device, this generally works well and if it doesn't Topple Ball Mini can calibrate the accelerometer for you. The common problem of not being able to see the screen at times when playing accelerometer games doesn't seem to apply here, mostly because the screen never has to be turned very much in order to move the ball.

Customizations

Topple Ball Mini offers some options for customizations such as changing the background from wood to concrete, carbon fiber or steel. You can also turn off the sounds and vibrations, but not each individually.  The paid version and beta version of Topple Ball adds many other customizations and settings.

Special Features

Topple Ball Mini has a High Score feature, but since it's not online you can only see the high scores from your own device.

Wrap-up

Overall, Topple Ball Mini is a great app that takes advantage of many WebOS services and it shows a lot of potential. However, some areas could be improved like the sound effects. Topple Ball Mini and Topple Ball will likely continue to get better with every update.

Note

If you're looking for the full version of Topple Ball it's available free as a beta over at the PreCentral Homebrew Gallery.