At first glance, Ragdoll Blaster looks like another run-of-the-mill physics game. That’s what I thought as well, but after playing this game for several hours, I found it to be quite spectacular and I simply couldn’t put it down.

The task is simple. Shoot limp dolls out of a cannon through obstacles to hit a red-and-white target. Just touch your finger to the spot where you want to shoot and let go. The farther from the cannon you aim, the faster the rag doll flies. To help out beginners, the options menu lets you choose a “sight line” to give a general idea where your character will be heading. An infinite number of dolls can be blasted at each level, but the number used will be displayed next to each level’s name. This is a nice touch as it adds replay value giving you some records to break.

What makes this game so original and addictive? Well, for one thing, the obstacles to overcome are fresh and new. While most physics games have only lines and falling platforms to get past, Ragdoll Blaster has so much more. Some interesting objects include hammers, springs, wheeled carts, falling boulders – and that’s just the start. These devices are utilized in creative ways making outstanding levels such as a labyrinth level and a pinball level.

An innovative feature is added to the level selector in the menu: Instead of getting stuck at one area that you just can’t beat and not having the option to advance, you can select a few courses ahead of you.

The graphics are nothing new. There have been plenty of games made before this with the sketched-on-paper look. Nothing breakthrough, but not dull either.

The background music fits nicely into the game, but come on. If I have to keep listening to that same tune over and over again, I might just throw my device across the room. Also, the triumphant noise that sounds at the end of each level seems a bit out of place.

Another flaw with the game, in addition to the repetitive music, is that the Menu and Reset buttons change positions in every level. What’s up with that? It’s understandable that the creators wanted the buttons not to interfere with the game play, but having consistent placement would be nice as you would know where to throw your finger to reset the course after a failed attempt.

Packed with 104 levels and counting, this is a great app for anyone wanting a game they can spend hours conquering, or for someone just looking for something better to do than counting tiles on the ceiling in a waiting room. Every game comes with its flaws, but the ones mentioned here are relatively insignificant and don’t take much away from the enjoyable gaming experience. This game won’t break the bank and is recommended for any level gamer out there: from hardcore to casual.