Games like 99 Seconds are exactly what I picture on handheld consoles and mobiles, a simple idea that can be played when you’re out and about on public transport. 99 Seconds has a very simple objective: survive 99 seconds.
Though only having to last 99 seconds would be to simple! You have to try to get a high score by staying alive and collecting power-ups (more on that later). Throughout there will be many obstacles which you have to avoid, if you are hit by one you get a sort of penalty where you will not be able to move stopping you from gaining more score temporarily.
Within the 99 seconds you are able to slow down time by pressing A, B, X or Y. After you have halted time, time will start going backwards and start reducing your score. Slowing down time will allow you to easily avoid difficult obstacles though going backward through time due to making a mistake will cause a lowered score, this means players will have to think quickly about the most effective way to dodge obstacles. After 99 seconds you are not able to slow down or revert time and the next time you are hit the game ends.
The game has two power-ups which you can find, the first of these being a green ball/capsule. This power-up gives you an additional 9 seconds to the clock which allows you to further your score. The additional 9 seconds allows you to also slow down/go back through time for an additional 9 seconds. Alongside this power-up is the 99 seconds character (a block man) which when collected adds 99,000 points to your score.
The graphical style of 99 Seconds can be seen as ‘retro’ style, though the lack of colour and variety in the game’s environment it becomes rather bland after the first playthrough. The sound also has a similar problem as it tends to be a game where you opt to turn the volume off whilst playing, though some people may find the game’s music enjoyable to listen to.
While 99 Seconds does not have much on offer for replay value, other than to beat your high score, the game is a very interesting little game that can be enjoyed by many due to its easy to learn controls. The game comes at the price of £4.50 on the 3DS eShop or 500 points on the DSi/DSiXL. For £4.50 this game is definitely worth picking up and playing as you’ll be sure to get your money’s worth out of this game.
6/10 – An enjoyable game to pick up and play, though you may not be tempted to go back after a few plays.
Disclaimer:All scores given within our reviews are based on the artist’s personal opinion; this should in no way impede your decision to purchase the game.
You must be logged in to post a comment.