InkBall

In InkBall, the objective of the game is to get the colored balls into the appropriate-colored holes (the orange ball goes in the orange hole, the blue ball goes in the blue hole, and so on). As you get farther into the game, you may also experience gray holes, which should be avoided, because they do not give you any points. In some levels, The balls can even change color, making it even more difficult. Figure 14.2 shows a beginner-level game with just two colors.

Figure 14.2. The object of InkBall is to get the balls into the same-colored holes.

Figure 14.3 shows what happens when a ball goes into the wrong color hole.

Figure 14.3. This is what happens when you let a ball go into the wrong hole.

To prevent the balls from going into the wrong holes, draw lines like the ones in Figure 14.4. You can make any number of strokes you want, as long or short as you desire. The balls will deflect off of the strokes you make according to the angle that the ball strikes the stroke. Because you can make as many strokes as you want without penalty, you can join a series of strokes together, thus protecting from multiple balls trying to get past your barrier.

Figure 14.4. The lines I drew will prevent the balls from going into the wrong colored holes.

There are five levels of play: Beginner, Novice, Intermediate, Advanced, and Expert. As you increase the play level, the balls become more numerous and faster, and the boards become increasingly difficult.

As you advance in difficulty, you will also see different types of walls, as shown through the help screen in Figure 14.5.

Figure 14.5. There are numerous obstacles you will be presented with. It's your job to figure out how to get the balls into their matching holes.

The play can get quite difficult when you advance levels. Figure 14.6 shows a particularly exciting Expert-level game board. Notice the multiple colors and varying obstacles.

Figure 14.6. This is an Expert-level board with disappearing walls, color walls, clock walls, and keyhole walls of varying colors.

InkBall can become addictive for some. It is a creative game for using the pen, and should provide lots of enjoyment for those who like Breakout-type games.