Winner of the game development competition in Assembly 2002 and deservedly so, Porrasturvat (Stair Dismount in English) is a quirky and strangely addictive little game by Jetro Lauha, the designer of caveflyer classic KOPS. The idea is simple but weirdly cruel: fall down a flight of stairs and try to hurt yourself as much as possible. As to why you’d be hurting yourself, read the game’s README file for info on the wacky premise (you are the superhero, no less – the plot will remind you of people who hurt themselves to claim insurance payment). All you do in the game is choose the location on your body and an angle. Then just apply as much or little force as you want by using the power bar (similar to swinging meter in golf games). Then you’ll sit back and watch as your alter ego fall down the stairs in slow motion. Your “score” is the total amount of damage done to each body part (head, arm, leg, torso, etc.) after the fall. That’s really all there is to the game, but like other addictive games, it will keep you glued to the screen as you try just one more push to inflict more damage. If you enjoy quick, quirky, and addictive coffee break games, Porrasturvat is a must-have. Two thumbs up! Reviewed by: Underdogs |