In just a couple of months, the team behind the Ouya system will see the fruits of their labor come to life through a retail release that will include Gamestop, Best Buy and other stores. For $99, the system may have what it takes to keep up with the “big boys” in the market with a number of independent and popular releases that will be available for purchase, though you can try any of them before you buy through downloadable demos.
There are already 100+ games available for the service with several more being added before its official launch in June. That’s a lot of games to try out, so we’ve put together a small guide to discuss some of the “bigger” releases for the system. That shouldn’t stop you from trying all of them out, but if you want to build a quality library right away these are the ones you should definitely start with…
Final Fantasy III (Square Enix)
This major release, which will hopefully be the first of many from Square, is one of the higher priced Ouya games available at $15.99. However, nostalgic gamers who remember the original version or even the more recent mobile release will get their money’s worth out of it. Featuring hours of epic battles, a quality storyline as only the RPG makers at Square Enix can deliver, and great graphics that pop to life, this is an undeniable classic that continues to shine years after its initial release.
The Pinball Arcade (Farsight Studious)
Fans of old-school pinball games from the 80’s and 90’s should take note of The Pinball Arcade. Previously released for consoles and mobile devices, the game makes a fine debut on Ouya. It features all its recently offered tables intact from The Twilight Zone and Star Trek: The Next Generation to more obscure hits like Central Park and Cactus Canyon. You do need to buy each of the tables separately (you get Tales of the Arabian Knights free with the initial download) but they’re worth it, especially if you have friends to compete against.
Flashout 3D (Jujubee S.A)
If you’re a fan of 3D racing games, especially Sony’s WipeOut titles, then chances are you’re going to love Flashout 3D. It features state-of-the-art track design, a smooth frame rate, and the kind of fast-paced racing action that could make even your teeth break out into a sweat. Flashout also has a number of modes to choose from and a built-in visual equalizer that goes with whatever music is playing in the background. Take it for a test drive.
Around the Rock Disc Golf (Tribaloid)
Frisbee golf isn’t just a lazy variation of the real thing – it’s its own addictive sport that requires finesse as you throw your discus through hoops and over troublesome targets. Now you can play whenever you like with ATR: Around the Rock, which features a variety of courses and a Tournament Mode where you can challenge to become the Frisbee golf champ. There’s also a Practice Mode where you can get a hang of the game’s controls before you take on the immense challenges that await you. Even if you stink at throwing a Frisbee in real life, you should still check this out.
Wizorb (Tribute Games Inc.)
Originally released for PS3 and PS Vita, Wizorb is a splendid retro-style game that blends the paddle-and-ball action of such games as Arkanoid and Breakout with refreshing role-playing elements. The end result is a surprisingly addictive game, one that keeps you coming back with new quests and enemies to defeat. It’s good fun and very cheap considering the content you’re getting out of it.
TuneIn Radio (TuneIn)
Though more of a music app than a game, TuneIn could be one of the more popular services offered through Ouya. The app grants access to 70,000 streaming radio stations, so you can find something to listen to no matter what you’re in the mood for. You can also transfer over your favorites list from TuneIn.com (it’s free to register) to stream directly to your game console. Give it a listen.
Canabalt (Kittehface Software)
Originally released on mobile, Canabalt is easily one of the most stylish free-running games you’ll find on the market. On the Ouya console, it shines thanks to revitalized graphics, music that rocks through your stereo, and an ongoing challenge depending how far your run goes. Even if you think you’ve mastered it before, it’s well worth trying out again.
Gunslugs (Orangepixel)
Last but not least, we have this retro-styled side-scrolling action game along the lines of the Metal Slug and Contra games. In Gunslugs, you battle against an evil armada of enemies while using a number of different characters in randomly generated levels while finding secrets and creating all sorts of chaos. If you like action, this is your one stop shop.
Learn more about the available library of Ouya games at Ouya.tv.
