Disregarding Super Hexagons: Into The Box
Free, Fast & Furious
The rather confused headline refers to the fact that free browser game Into The Box plays like the bastard (hard) child of Terry Cavanagh's brain-searing Super Hexagon and AaaaaAAaaaAAAaaAAAAaAAAAA!!! – A Reckless Disregard for Gravity. The music and frame wobble like Pac-Man at a well-stocked rave, and the player falls ever-forward, attempting to steer into boxes, which are scattered within larger boxes. Reaching specific score thresholds unlocks new music tracks and bonus rings, which provide fresh targets to aim for. I'm finding it hard not to go straight back in because my current high score is a pitiful 33.
It took me a good while to realise that I could hold down the left mouse button to accelerate, which is the speedy route to a higher score. Now, with just one of the bonus rings unlocked, I'm starting to find my rhythm. It took me weeks to click with Super Hexagon and while Into The Box isn't as tightly designed, eventually suffering from the comparison, it is similarly hypnotic. I play well when I forget that I'm playing at all.
Into The Box is also available for free on Android devices.