Price: $1.99 Score: 9/10 Category: Games
Flick Kick Chelsea by PikPok Games is another great example of the the simple-yet-addictive qualities of some of the best iPhone games. Rather than building a full-on soccer simulator, Flick Kick Chelsea builds an entire game around the free kick. The game requires you to avoid still or moving obstacles, hit multiple targets, and aim for specific zones in the goal, all by using remarkably nuanced flick controls.
Flick Kick Chelsea is one of those games that doesn’t require an interest in the subject matter to keep you coming back to improve your score. And with the ample amount of modes and options, there’ll be plenty to keep you busy.
In Flick Kick Chelsea, the gist of the game is to properly use the flick mechanic to aim the ball into the goal. In the Practice Mode, you’ll learn how to angle your shot, how to kick the ball higher, and how to curve your shot around obstacles. This last skill will be your key to success in later challenges. You see, as you progress through the game, more and more obstacles will be put in your way via cardboard cutouts of soccer players. Some move back-and-forth in front of the goal, some are clustered in groups, and you’ll need to slice your shot through tiny openings in order to be successful.
The player shoots the ball by using the finger to flick the ball at the goal. The basic flick causes to ball to go straight in one direction. But mastering the curve flick will result in trick shots that will almost magically pass through obstacles. This mechanic requires a bit of practice, but works amazingly well. In no time you’ll be guiding the ball through tight gaps and into the goal.
Another key to the game is finding the bonus zones along the top or sides of the goal. Striking in these zones will earn you extra lives in Arcade Mode, meaning that should you miss the goal completely, you’ll get another chance. In addition, get a few shots in a row and you’ll be rewarded with a fireball, which can blow right through obstructions.
Flick Kick Chelsea also supports an online Multiplayer Mode. Though simple in concept, this mode is also incredibly addictive. You and your opponent each has three lives as you go from challenge to challenge. In my tests, connecting to other players was quick and easy, and the game performed very well.
For hardcore soccer (football) aficionados, Flick Kick Chelsea also includes history and trivia for its namesake football club. Players can take a break from the all the flicking action to either learn a bit about the Chelsea club, or test their knowledge to see how they score. And, of course, Game Center achievements are supported.
Bottom Line: Fun, addicting, and extremely well-made, Flick Kick Chelsea is a great pick-up-and-play game, recommended even for those who have no interest in soccer.
Flick Kick Chelsea is compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later.