Archetype ($2.99) is a new multiplayer first-person shooter that demonstrates the power of the upgraded graphics on newer iPhones. Both 3GS and iPhone 4 users will be able to play this game. When you launch Archetype for the first time, you'll need to register a unique screen name to create your account, but that's it--no e-mail address or extra purchases required. Part of the marketing push for Archetype is that it's not a "freemium" title; you won't have to purchase power packs or spend any extra money at all on downloadable content. With Archetype, you pay only once and play as much as you want.
??Dual joysticks control movement and firing just like other touch-screen FPS games, and the HUD lets you know where your health and ammo levels are at a glance. You get six weapons and two grenades to choose from that you will find throughout the levels as you play. It comes with only a couple of game types, including a training type of challenge mode and online multiplayer in which you can play five-on-five team death match games. Racking up kills online earns you experience and medals (and is a heck of a lot of fun), but not much else. We hope that later versions include more perks for gaining experience, like special items or outfits, for example, but it's hard to complain about a game that looks this good and is this much fun.
