Art of the iPhone

*Update 11-20-2009* There is now a free version of this game called WordFu Plus+ (iTunes link) in the App Store.

WordFu ($0.99, iTunes link) is a Boggle-like word game that borrows interactive elements from iFight, the iPhone fighting simulator that makes punching and sword-swinging sounds when you swing the iPhone. While the genre of Boggle-like word games is a little tired on the iPhone, the addition of the kung fu accelerometer controls creates an interactive aspect that takes a little of the passivity out of playing a word game. The developers have borrowed heavily from other apps–even the dice engine is from the makers of MachX Dice, but at least they’ve borrowed from the best. Overall, the game is a blast and has rejuvenated my weary love, if only temporarily, of word games on the iPhone. We are rating it a 8.0 out of 10, recommended.

The object of WordFu is to form words out of random letters from 9 dice. The dice are rolled before the game begins, and you have 20 seconds to either start the game or shake the iPhone to reroll the dice in hopes of getting more favorable letters. You can also reroll individual dice by tapping them. The game goes out of its way to make sure you’re happy with the letters, but “easy” letters won’t necessarily mean a higher score, as there are Scrabble-like benefits for using rarer letters like Z and Qu.

Once the game begins, you simply tap the dice to form words. When you want to submit a word, you give the iPhone a good shake. The game is filled with various kung fu sound effects, such as a Bruce Lee-esque voice shouting “wahhh!” and various punching and fighting noises when you submit words or delete a mistyped letter. The sounds combine with your movements to give some much needed tactile feedback and create a fun, addictive, interactive experience.

Bonus dice can freeze the timer or double your points.

WordFu throws in a few gameplay twists via bonus dice that occasionally appear. There are three in all: one stops the clock from counting down, another gives double points for words, and the third allows you to reroll one dice. It’s not exactly a complicated or deep game, but it is fast paced.

Earn a black belt by mastering WordFu.

It’s a little disappointing that there is no online high score list. High scores are local to the app, although you can email your best score as a challenge to a friend. There’s also a karate belt system, where you gain different colored belts based on your achievements. I can claim to be a purple belt due to an 1,100-point round.

Conclusion

Gaming devices like the Nintendo Wii and the iPhone are adding more and more physical interaction into casual games. With WordFu, there is only one motion, giving the iPhone a good shake. But the addition of kung fu sound effects along with a fast pace will have you feeling like you’re in the middle of a fight, only this time, your weapons are letters. Overall, WordFu is a casual word game that provides fast-paced fun. 8.0 out of 10, recommended.