Thor: The Dark World for Android

Game summary

Thor: The Dark World is a 3D action-adventure tie-in that puts you in the role of the Norse demigod as he travels across the Nine Realms. The loose storyline borrows elements from the movie, tasking you with teaming up with Asgard’s elite fighters to stop the sinister Malekith and his forces.

Objective and structure

The title contains more than ninety separate missions, each set in varied environments across the realms. Your central goal is to clear hostile areas of enemies by fighting alongside a roster of summoned Asgardian allies. As encounters grow tougher, you’ll need to strengthen both Thor and his companions so you can advance through increasingly dangerous levels.

Progression, upgrades and in-game economy

To face stronger foes you’ll raise character stats, unlock new attacks and improve weapons. Upgrades are earned through gameplay achievements or acquired with real-money purchases. The game uses several in-game resources for summoning and upgrades, including:

• Runes — used to enhance equipment and perform certain upgrades.
• ISO-008 — a currency applied mainly toward weapon and ability improvements.
• Uru — required to call forth allied warriors during missions.

These currencies can be collected by replaying stages, but repeatedly grinding the same levels to farm resources can become tedious.

Controls and combat mechanics

Traditional virtual sticks are replaced by a touch-driven control scheme that focuses on gestures and taps. Major control actions include:

• Drawing a lightning-shaped gesture to unleash Thor’s signature lightning attack.
• Swiping with two fingers to launch ranged strikes or interact with destructible scenery.
• Tapping an enemy to perform standard melee attacks.
• Tapping the battlefield to direct Thor’s movement.

You can also trigger special abilities and summon helpers using on-screen action buttons. There are several ally classes you can summon during play, each offering distinct tactical advantages.

Presentation: graphics and sound

The game delivers polished 3D visuals and richly detailed backdrops that evoke a cinematic atmosphere similar to other high-profile superhero tie-ins. The soundtrack is dramatic and fitting for the setting, and the voice performances are serviceable, adding to the overall Hollywood-style presentation.

Assessment

While the combat and ally mechanics will appeal to fans of the character, the game doesn’t break new ground in the top-down action-adventure genre. Repetitive mission design and the limits imposed by free-to-play monetization may frustrate some players, even as others enjoy battling alongside a varied cast of Asgardian warriors.