I’ve said it once and I’ll say it again, there are too many tower defense games available. However, just when I’m about to give up on it for good, something like Elf Defense pops up and totally redeems the genre. It’s addictive. It’s stunning. It’s currently on sale for $.99, down from $2.99. Quite the bargain I’d say.
The point of Elf Defense is very simple, but in it’s simplicity it shines. There are the obligatory defense units, which can be upgraded for more magical elf carnage as well as set routes and multiple waves of ferocious enemies. But not all enemies are equal. There are big ones, pink ones, small ones, horned ones and much more. As the waves progress so does the power of these beasts. Hence why your units are upgradable. At this point you’re probably thinking to yourself that this is more of the same and in same ways yes, the gameplay is the same, but it offers a unique combination of very nicely done graphics and how they execute game mechanics is marvelous. These add just enough originalism that you won’t be able to put the game down.
I think one of the most creative points about the game is that the humans are the evildoers and it’s the cute little elves who’ve been harmed. A twist of the normal “aliens are attacking earth” type defense. In Elf Defense, the player is there to help the elves not only defend their land but take it back as well. This is done by using the available elf units such as ice throwing and boulder throwing characters. These are available right from the start, but you’ll have to wait a few levels for new characters and powers to be introduced.
As mentioned above, the graphics are well put together and are a cartoon style that is small part anime and part Sponge Bob. And then of course there is the magical portion of it that makes for some very intense and fun gameplay.
As for upgrading units, it’s quite easy and the mechanics within the game are seamless. Tap on a unit, select the upgrade unit and voila. However, wait until you have enough coins or it won’t work. But the real-time upgrading is pretty sweet. Overall, Elf Defense is a not only a welcomed addition to the tower defense genre, it’s an innovative and unique style that is sure to impress many a gamer.
