Review: Miss Claire Garden
Old style platforming in a beautiful package
Platforming games are very, very common on iOS. A quick glance through the MFi Game List shows more than a few even support game controllers. With that backdrop, any new entrant has to work hard to stand out. Miss Claire Garden does in a number of ways.
While there is a lot to like about this game, the graphics are probably the strongest aspect. The entire world is presented in a colorful, smooth, blocky-yet-hand-drawn aesthetic. This has the effect of feeling almost like a classic SNES game in some ways, but without any of the obviously “retro” look other games of this sort go for.
The gameplay of Miss Claire Garden is a little less of a slam dunk. It doesn’t stray too far from the classic Super Mario Bros formula – you control a colorful character along a 2D plane, jumping over enemies, breaking boxes (in this case fruit), collecting power ups, and generally platform-hopping your way to the finish line. Miss Claire tweaks the formula somewhat by allowing you to pick up both enemies and objects to throw them. While fans of the classic Klonoa series will recognize that mechanic, it’s not a common one, and it is used to good effect in this game.
The problem comes from the platforming itself. Miss Claire just controls slowly. Character movement, jumping – everything feels like it’s happening sluggishly compared to how it should. Collision detection is inconsistent as well – there will be times you’ll fall off the edge of a platform, even though the visuals dictate there should still be room to stand.
Controller support in Miss Claire Garden is well implemented, with both Standard and Extended layouts. Control over the menu is supported, including exiting a level via the pause button – it’s surprising how many developers neglect menu control. With that said, the game fails to prevent your iPhone from falling asleep – for long sessions, periodically tapping the screen will be required.
Ultimately, Miss Claire Garden takes an average platforming game and brings a wonderful visual style and great level design. Hardcore platforming game fans may find the pace a little slow, but ultimately, playing through the game is still a fun and beautiful experience.