Stargate SG-1: Entropy Syndrome

Stargate SG-1: Entropy Syndrome showed a lot of promise as a solid adventure game when I saw it at GDC earlier this year, so I'm quite happy to report that the finished product delivers on all counts. The folks at SkyZone Mobile have put together a satisfying pick-up-and-play experience that makes good use of its license without alienating those who aren't familiar with series.

The other mission style will have you controlling Teal'c as he runs through rubble-strewn city streets fending off crazed (and armed) cultists. Your weapon fires automatically when you are lined up with enemies, so all you have to concentrate on is weaving through the level and jumping over pits. While these aren't quite as engaging to play as the O'Neill missions, they are satisfying and work quite well as simple action sequences.

The story is somewhat forgettable, never explaining terms like Goa'uld or Ori, but someone better versed in the storyline from the TV show may find more to enjoy. Fortunately, the rest of the game is so solid that an understanding of the writing isn't remotely necessary to enjoy Entropy Syndrome as a mobile title. It's a little on the short side, but with three difficulty settings and a hall of fame scoreboard there is certainly incentive to replay the missions. Largely a realm dominated by puzzles and simple action, this title makes the argument that adventure games have a home waiting on mobile devices. Here's hoping more developers step up to answer that call.