Don't Feed The Trolls (XBLIG): 'A Troll Slappin' Good Time!'

Don't Feed The Trolls was developed by 'Frozax Games'. It takes the simple concept of feeding bears, and slapping trolls to a new level. The game requires a lot of focus, and quick reflexes as you make your way through levels with new types of bears/trolls constantly being added into the mix. Each level looks the same, and is divided into 4 sections which coincide with the X, Y, A, and B buttons on your Xbox 360 controller. Your job is to hit the appropriate button at the right time in order to feed the bears. To slap the trolls you will use the (Left Thumbstick), and press it in the direction of the current troll's location. As you progress through the levels new controls are added to the game that effect certain bear, and troll types further complicating gameplay. If you slap a bear, or feed a troll too many times it will be 'Game Over'. The levels in the game give you a score at the end (A++ - F) that takes in account all of your actions (slaps, missed slaps, slapped bears/trolls, missed feedings ...). The game also features an online leaderboard that ranks you against the other players of the game which is definitely a welcome addition. Don't Feed The Trolls offers two levels of difficulty for gamers to choose from, 'Normal' and 'Hard (for those who are glutton for punishment ^.^). You can save your progress up until you get a gameover by pressing (B) after each level. This is a good tip to follow for achieving a decent spot on the leaderboard.

I ended up playing several rounds of 'Don't Feed The Trolls' until I realized that I wasn't going to make it past the baby bear part. I'm a bit slow when it comes to reflexes, so I didn't do too well. I'm sure some of you out there probably have much better reflexes than I do, and could actually get a good score. Don't Feed The Trolls is one of those games that will appeal to some players, and not others due to the difficulty. I found that the look, and controls of the game were fairly decent. For an 80 msp ($1) game you are getting your money's worth. The online leaderboards add a good level of replay value. It would be great if other indie game developers who make score based games would follow 'Frozax Games' example, and include online leaderboards. It makes a world of difference when it comes to replay value in an indie game.