Turrican Hands-On Impressions

Embedded applications are the exception in these days of downloadable games; however, THQ is releasing at least one game preloaded on Siemens 65 Series phones. Turrican is a fairly conventional side-scrolling shooter with three modes of play.

In its standard mode, you are a sort of cyborg running along the ground. You can run, jump, and shoot 360 degrees around you. In this mode, especially, the game’s platforming elements are as prevalent as its shooting ones. The coolest feature here is the ability to roll up into a ball and smash enemies--Metroid style. Next, there’s jetpack mode, in which--appropriately enough--you’re equipped with a jet-fueled backpack that allows you to soar to otherwise unattainable heights. Jetpack levels are specifically designed to accommodate your aerial skills. Your fuel meter depletes as you fly, but it recharges during inactivity. Once you’re up in the air, you’ll find that only quick key presses are needed to maintain altitude. The game’s spaceship levels are reportedly even more clear-cut. We were not shown the spaceship mode, however--perhaps because it was not finished in the pre-alpha build on display.

Overall, Turrican looked sharp--it runs as smoothly as you’d expect from an embedded application. Time will tell if the three modes of play will be enough to elevate the title beyond its apparent conventionality.