Last week we reported that developer HandCircus was teasing something new for its classic iOS series Rolando, and now we finally get some clear information. After a decade lying dormant, Rolando is back! According to HandCircus, Rolando: Royal Edition, a fully remastered version of the original title, is launching on April 3. A trailer is also available. You can check it out below:
If you are not familiar with the franchise, this trailer should give you a pretty good idea of what it is all about. Released in the early days of the App Store, the game took what were the revolutionary features of the iPhone at the time – namely touchscreen and responsive tilt-based controls – and utilized them to great effect to create an excellent puzzle experience. All the levels were extremely well-designed as they gradually introduced one new element after another, making you want to press on and explore its 4 stunning worlds.
Naturally, Rolando: Royal Edition will come with a complete graphic overhaul, but that’s not all there is. HandCircus has used an entirely new engine for this remastered version, enabling it to run at 60 fps on all devices. Several levels, interactions, and mechanics have been updated as well.
In many ways, Rolando was a classic on the App Store. It was way ahead of its time and demonstrated what the platform was potentially capable of as a gaming device. It might not have been as big as other free-to-play titles such as Clash of Clans or Candy Crush, but it’s still an important contribution to the gaming history.
Currently, Rolando: Royal Edition is already available for pre-order on the App Store at a discounted price of $2.99(Rs 210). The expected full price is $5.99 (Rs 415). Yes, it might sound a bit expensive for a mobile game, but given what the game brings to the table, it is completely worth it. Also, keep in mind that the original Rolando had a price of $9.99 (Rs 700) when it first came out in 2008.