IdeaBox’ Rainy Day2 is the direct follow-up to the developer’s first Rainy Day. The sequel brings the same water dodging gameplay that made its predecessor a hit, bringing even more content, items, and backstory to the mix. The app is an emotionally dense surrealist romp through modern life, though you might never notice from the gameplay. No matter how you slice it, though, the app deserves a look and is available for free in the Android Market.
Concept and Gameplay
Rainy Day2
Rainy Day2 offers the sort of gameplay that’s easy to describe but hard to explain. Users play as Mr. Skinny, a lonely cubicle rat on his way home from work. The weather has gone a bit sour, and he’s left his umbrella at home. With no other recourse, Mr. Skinny must dodge raindrops all the way back. As drops fall, they create a black line that can be avoided if players are quick. There are also a number of items available in-game to help out, including an umbrella. Users will also discover animals in need of a good home during their travels, which can be returned to a clinic for an emotional reward. Emotions are the currency of the realm, allowing the player to purchase even more power-ups and items.
The concept at work is great, and the gameplay is very relaxing. The game emphasizes the slow, cool progression of things, using soothing background music and the ever-present feeling of rain. I do wish the game came with a bit more in-app documentation, as some of the more complex elements of the gameplay must be discovered. Then again, this does add a bit to the mix, as users must take it upon themselves to poke all the buttons, and unearth all the interesting items.
Design and Graphics
The graphics of Rainy Day2 reminded me a lot of EarthBound, with its 8-bit retro SNES feel. However, the colors are much better than that, and the animations are excellent, too. The game is sporting a very relaxed vibe that’s hard to explain but is immediately felt. The concept of dodging raindrops—a rather innocuous substance—is more soothing than alarming, and the developers have made it fairly easy to take cover under nearby awnings. They’ve also taken a great deal of time adding extras to the journey: The universal action button unlocks quite a few interesting conversations and items, inviting the player to explore. All in all, the graphics go hand in hand with wonderful level design, creating a surrealist journey through urban life that should hardly be missed.
Overall Value
Best of all, Rainy Day2 is free in the Android Market. The app will delight any casual gamer, offering a wealth of beautifully retro graphics, rich gameplay, and fun backstory. The app is a complex one, though ultimately simplistic in execution. And if that dense description doesn’t make Rainy Day2 sound appetizing, I have no idea what will.
Android Apps Review Details: Rainy Day2 app is free. This app requires Android 2.2 and up. You may download Rainy Day2 from the Android Market.
