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If the art style of Sir Benfro's Brilliant Balloon were to have any comparison, it would
probably be to children's books like 'Where the Wild Things Are' that visually painted
an alien world of both wonder and a little foreboding. Sir Benfro is off to explore new
places and chart the exotic creatures that inhabit them, and it's up to the player to
guide him through his journey safely.
Sir Benfro travels by way of firefly filled balloon. Their lights propel him along, but
every so often one finds its way to freedom, so to keep going, you need to collect more
fireflies placed around the level (obviously they are more scarce on the harder difficulty).
Bumping into the land or any of the creatures will jettison clumps of fireflies, so like
any good explorer knows, it's best to observe the wildlife than try to interact with it.
Floating along is controlled by a simple touch. Holding your finger will cause the balloon
to soar and letting go will cause you to descend. Working your peaks and valleys into a rhythm
will speed you up, and furiously tapping will slow you down. While this works fairly well,
you never feel like you have total control of the balloon. Not to a complete detriment,
but it is a concern.
Now the art style was mentioned before and the presentation is one of the selling points
of this game. Progression through the levels is often led by a desire to see what strange
and wonderful landscape and wildlife awaits you next, while the music softly accompanies
your journey with its soothing and delightful tones.
Sir Benfro's Brilliant Balloon is more than just a game with a goofy title. The gliding
gameplay may be all to familiar to iPhone gamers, but the unique presentation is enough
to sell one on what's on offer here. This gets a recommendation.