http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/whale-trail/id450163154?mt=8 Out in US! Bought. First purchase tonight :].
Definitely purchased this. Loving it so far. Some of the achievements seem insanely difficult. Maybe I just suck at Whale Trail!!
After reading Gabrien's impressions, I have to say I'm disappointed. It doesn't live up to something like JJ or even Temple Run, and definitely not Tiny Wings. The feeling of urgency isn't there, the game is way too forgiving, and most of all, it takes FOREVER in terms of an endless runner to finish a game. It took 277 seconds (says the stats) for me to finish my FIRST game. Imagine when I get better. 10+ minute games? The graphics and and background music are splendid though. Plenty of achievements. Also, not only is it universal, it has SEPARATE leaderboards for iPad players, which is very awesome. There's a stats page as you'd expect from an endless runner. Interesting multiplier/scoring system though. The frenzy mode is pretty cool too. It's a well-made game no doubt, but not very effective as an endless runner. I believe it can chart well for a while, but it won't make it as an iOS classic like Tiny Wings has and like JJ is doing.
I'll be loading this game now and then to marvel in the atmosphere and listen to Gruff, rather than any particular desire to play the game again. As mentioned, it lasts waaaay too long, and it doesn't feel like it lasts a long time because I'm doing well, it just feels unbalanced.
I think that the possibility of surviving for a long time its a nice touch, and is based on your own skill, which feels fair. Im having a blast with the new thing I found so far: when Franzy ends it kinda explodes and destroys anything close... cool
Game Impressions This is very polished and I am enjoying it. The early part of the game is easy but it starts to get quite challenging for me a few minutes in. This looks really pretty and runs smoothly on my iPad 2. It is an easy recommendation at the dollar price. Edit: I really love the theme song and in game music!
Whale Trail is so awesome. ustwo has made their masterpiece. And how can you NOT run and buy this game after watching the music video for it? http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wwr6c2Ws1yI I mean seriously, Woah.
Shame you feel that way. It's technically not an endless runner and you're right. It does take a while for a run. You're right once again. It's not inherently difficult as per Jetpack Joyride or Temple Run and you're right. I personally enjoy the atmosphere of the game and the laid back pace. There's tons of Canabalt-esque already games on the App Store. For me, Whale Trail is more about relaxing and enjoying the ride with its beautiful sights, sounds, and colours.
Yep, different preferences. Like I said, it's a very well-made game. If people are looking for the type of game you described, this is a great choice.
This games makes me smile. I actually like the casual, almost zen feeling as whalie soar through the sky.