A new puzzle game which blends brain-twisting logic with an environmental message will soon be available for all major brands of touchscreen tablets - with a PC and Mac desktop version following.
Traffic Wonder, from independent developer Yo Ambulante, is an inventive new puzzler, with a remarkably simple conceit: guide the coloured vehicle to their respective destinations, using as little fuel as possible. Players trace routes from point to point using a sweep of the finger. Once the routes are happily defined, a quick push of the play button will set the journeys in motion.
Best of all - anyone wanting to get their fingers on this addictive trace-'em-up need not wait for its official release, as fully-functioning beta versions for Android tablets, iPad, Blackberry Playbook, Kindle Fire and desktop are available to download for free from http://www.trafficwonderapp.com/.
The criteria for successfully completing a level never changes: guide all the cars safely to their garage without any collisions. Sounds simple – but the game’s unique puzzle mechanics ensure every level is a challenge.
The vehicles in Traffic Wonder behave as in real-life – speeding up long straights, and slowing down to take tight turns. In addition, different sized vehicles will run at different speeds, making route-planning more challenging. Detours to let faster cars to overtake are often necessary – but deviate too far from the optimum route and risk running out of fuel.
As in real life, fuel is a precious resource, and players are encouraged and rewarded for using as little as possible. Players will learn how different routes affect the fuel consumption, with particularly efficient solutions rewarded with in-game medals.
When in motion, Traffic Wonder veers between old-school toy set and edge-of-the-seat puzzler. As the vehicles head determinedly towards their destination, a slight dip in speed round a corner could mean the difference between success and failure. The slightest fender bender requires a rethink – though the game’s interface makes slight adjustments a joy rather than hassle. Routes can be remapped with a few taps – and special, though limited, ‘stop hands’ can be placed which slow approaching vehicles.
With 60 levels available in the initial release, Traffic Wonder is a comprehensive puzzler. More levels are planned in subsequent updates – though players are encouraged to replay previous stages in order to save previous fuel and rise up the global leaderboards.
Traffic Wonder combines wonderful puzzle mechanics, sumptuous visuals and an important environmental message.
Heading to all tablet formats over the coming weeks, it’s a wonder to behold.
Features:
- 60 challenging levels, each solvable in a variety of ways. Complete the objectives, or aim for the bonus medals by conserving fuel – the choice is up to you
- Constantly changing gameplay – new vehicles demand new tactics
- Intuitive controls – create and refine routes simply and easily
- Beautiful visuals – watch in awe as the world of Traffic Wonder comes to life
- Multiple environments – solve puzzles in the city, the countryside and the desert, among others
- Comprehensive global leader board. Think you’ve done well? Then see how the rest of the world is faring
Further launch details for Traffic Wonder will be announced shortly. For more information, and to download a fully-functioning beta, head to www.trafficwonderapp.com
