Vincent Ferrari
08-11-2009, 05:00 PM
<div class='os_post_top_link'><a href='http://www.astraware.com/iphone/casino' target='_blank'>http://www.astraware.com/iphone/casino</a><br /><br /></div><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com//at/auto/1248998587.usr18053.png" style="border: 1px solid #d2d2bb;" /></p><p><strong>The claim:</strong> <em>"Try your luck with Astraware Casino - a collection of the most popular casino games all in one pack. Enjoy all the fun of a real casino without losing your shirt!"</em></p><p><strong>The aplication: </strong>Astraware has done something pretty impressive, in theory, by making 11 classic casino games available at the ridiculously low price of $0.99. The question, of course, is do we get what we paid for, or is Astraware Casino a true value? Read on to find out!</p><p><MORE /><strong>The Details:</strong> At first glance, you immediately wonder how good the games can be if there's 11 of them and they're all in there for $0.99. I did. In fact, when you start the app up, the menu (shown at the top of this article) is a tad overwhelming. That being said, it's a pleasant surprise.</p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/at/auto/1249952577.usr18053.jpg" style="border: 1px solid #d2d2bb;" /></p><p>After you choose your game, you have to set up your "account," meaning you have to hit the ATM and get some money or make a deposit. While you may wonder why you need this level of realism, I have to say it's very satisfying as you put "money" in your "account" as the game goes on. Once you've taken some out, you can hit the tables and machines.</p><p>All the usual suspects are there, with some you don't normally see. Jacks or Better (shown above) is a very faithful recreation of the quintessential video poker game everyone knows and loves. Also present are Baccarat (a game I still have no idea how to play), Roulette, Craps, Hold 'Em (Limit and No-Limit), 3-Card Poker, Keno, Slots, Blackjack, and Derby.</p><p>While the graphics and sounds won't knock you out, the games themselves are well-designed. They play naturally, and the controls are intuitive. The cards look good, the tables look good, and so on. Nothing is overwhelming, but it's adequate for creating the feel.</p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com/resizer/thumbs/size/600/at/auto/1249953669.usr18053.jpg" style="border: 1px solid #d2d2bb;" /></p><p>Some of the games seem to be lacking some "character" for lack of a better word. For example, take a look at the Hold 'Em game. No avatars, no faces, no characters. Just names and cards. The Three Card Poker game is also a bit flat. Again, the gameplay is fine, but the "draw you in" atmosphere could be better.</p><p>As you run around the casino, you'll definitely have fun. I find it fun to just open up Casino and play for a few minutes at a time. It's a great time killer, and if you're a casino addict, you'll get your "fix" without spending a ton.</p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com//at/auto/1249953960.usr18053.png" style="border: 1px solid #d2d2bb;" /></p><p> </p><p>And, as if you needed some motivation, you collect "souvenirs" as you regain accomplishments. They're displayed in a "trophy room" of sorts for your viewing pleasure!</p><p><strong>The verdict: </strong>The person at Astraware who sent me the review copy readily admits that Astraware Casino isn't meant to be a casino sim, but more of a casino "game." The odds are a little more friendly than you would typically find in a hard-core sim. That being said, the games are still a lot of fun and mechanically they play well. While aesthetically it comes off as a bit lacking, and the long texty explanations of the games are not my favorite way to learn a game, the gameplay itself makes up for it. The fact that there's this much variety packed into a game that goes for $0.99 is nothing short of astounding. Don't let the price fool you; Astraware Casino is a keeper.</p><p><strong>Availability: </strong>Astraware Casino is available right now in the <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=323824368&mt=8" target="_blank">App Store for $0.99</a>.</p><p><em>Vincent Ferrari is an Apple fan, videoblogger, blogger, writer, and all-around geek from the Bronx. He works in the IT Department of a cellular phone company that shall not be named, and lives in a very comfortable apartment with his lovely wife, two lovely cats, two Macs, two iPhones, and God-knows-how-many iPods of varying age.</em></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com//ppct/auto/1240336793.usr1.gif" /></p><p><strong>Do you enjoy using new hardware, software and accessories, then sharing your experience with others? Then join us on the <a href="http://www.thoughtsmedia.com/reviewteam.php" target="_blank">Thoughts Media Review Team</a>! We're looking for individuals who find it fun to test new gear and give their honest opinions about the experience. It's a volunteer role with some great perks. Interested? <a href="http://www.thoughtsmedia.com/reviewteam.php" target="_blank">Then click here for more information.</a></strong></p><p><img src="http://images.thoughtsmedia.com//ppct/auto/1240336793.usr1.gif" /></p>