RPG mechanics, if implemented correctly, can give a game a shot in the arm when it comes to replay value. If done poorly, it can create the feeling of a grind, which are unfortunately often paired with enticing microtransactions. While it’s a fine line to walk, I feel like a lot of mobile games are doing it right, and entice players to forge on, getting the best pieces of gear like any fully-fledged release. One such game is Dash Quest (Free) — a runner with a ton of goodies to sift through.
Dash Quest is a seemingly shallow runner at first glance, but after a few runs you’ll discover that it’s surprisingly deep. Players will start off with a lowly hero on a paved road, slicing enemies to and fro as you attempt to make it to the next zone. Tapping on the left side swipes your sword, the right side blocks, and holding the attack side will queue up a magic projectile. It’s such a simple control method, and it’s not only responsive, but engaging as well.
You’ll have control over nearly every aspect of combat, with the power to tackle rushing foes head-on and the option to take them out before they become a problem. Blocking isn’t foolproof and needs to be timed to really reach its peak effectiveness, but playing a good offense will alleviate your need to block so much. Additionally, wildly swiping with no particular concern for aiming won’t get you far, as precise strikes are needed for most encounters.
The aforementioned RPG elements are the best part. Players can upgrade their wares with better weapons, armor, and consumable items. New acquisitions not only boost your stats, but your appearance as well. Within no time I was donning the heroic garb from The Legend of Zelda, until I moved on to a more traditional suit of armor. There’s close to 100 items to strive for, some of which drastically alter the way you approach each run, like the Feather Boots, which increase the speed of each run. Even after just a few sessions I had enough gold to purchase from a selection of 10 different pieces of gear, which is usually unheard of for games like this.
Dash Quest‘s IAP is rather fair as well. For $2.99 you can remove ads, for $2.99 you’ll net Double XP, and gold can be purchased in increments of $1.99 up to $24.99. As for the latter mechanic I never felt compelled to pay one cent to progress, and since the game is free, the removal of ads is a rather easy pill to swallow. You can also earn more gold by watching video ads. There’s also three character slots, in case you get bored with one hero and want to go on a completely different path with another.
It can be slow-going at times near the end of the progression loop, but Dash Quest is relatively fair with doling out carrots with very little sticks involved. While it’s not nearly as addicting as other releases, I was encouraged to play a fair amount of it before I started to move on to something else.
