The iPhone has certainly created a buzz among independent game developers. Actually, more than just creating a buzz, the iPhone has created developers. One developer has had his gaming roots established long before the iPhone and is now jumping on the mobile bandwagon. Meet Jason Booth, creator of Splat for the iPhone. Originally coded over a 4 day weekend in Flash, Splat is an intriguing space shooter game that will put you on the edge of your seat. The name is derived from the fact that when you destroy enemies, paint colorfully splats against the backdrop. Such a great idea guarantees a unique experience each time you play the game.

Controls are simple and intuitive. Just drag your left thumb to move yourself (actually the environment moves while you stay put) and you right thumb to aim. Shots are fired continuously, so if you don’t have a third thumb don’t worry. Enemies come in different colors and sizes. Just when you thought you defeated a large one, it divides into multiple smaller foes. If an enemy touches you your energy is drained -- lose all your energy and the game ends. Defeating some enemies gives you power-ups, which increase your firepower, slow down enemies, or send out shock waves. A hit by an adversary will conversely detract from your power-up.

Without a doubt, our AppSmile favorite feature is the reactive soundtrack! This is awesome -- your shots fire to the beat of the music, or maybe vice verse. When your firepower increases, so does the musical accompaniment. We think this is aspect of Splat will overshadow any complaints about the game design being too basic (which may be true).
In the future we hope Splat develops into a well honed, eye-catching graphical experience. But for now, hats off to Mr. Booth for creating a great little title which we think has the draw to keep iPhone gamers coming back for more!

AppSmile’s Favorite Features:

• Reactive Soundtrack keeps you groovin’
• Simple intuitive Controls
• Challenging game play

What We Want to See Improved:

• Simple design elements needing enhancement
• Let’s take Splat beyond a Flash port -- the electronic world is your canvas (literally) Mr. Booth

Splat gets our AppSmile 5-Dimple rating: