The Mighty Troglodytes (Great name and logo), creators of video games for mobile phones, announce the launch of the second title in the Garden Stories series: Smash The Mole.

So here is the plot of the game: With the Frenzy Island Best Vegetable Garden competition fast approaching, Vlad Furry is hatching a fiendish plan to ensure he wins the trophy. His idea is to enlist an army of mercenary moles to wreak havoc in the wonderful garden tended by his neighbour, Sven Tomato, many-time winner of the competition. Stepping into the shoes of Sven, the player must defend his garden against the mole assaults, with the help of his giant hammer.

Gameplay : Smash The Mole is quick and easy to get the hang of, think it is a digital version of Whack a Mole. To drive away the moles, Sven can move in four directions and then when you see a mole pop his head out of a hole, BAM. Controls are simple and intuitive, but watch out, the moles are persistent and retaliate by throwing vegetables at you. As you progress through the levels, various upgrades are unlocked to help Sven protect his garden.

One upgrade gives Sven the ability to set the moles on fire in a vertical row, another will freeze them in a horizontal row. The upgrades don’t last for ever so milk them as much as possible. The field is layed out very basic with 9 holes where moles can pop out of randomly, so you have to guess where they are going to come out of and hit them or dodge their vegetables.

My only gripe with the game was the fact that it was not very challenging and the boards never really changed, but it did keep me busy for a few, which is all I really expect from a mobile game. 3 out of 5

Graphics : For a hand held game the graphics are as good as can be expected. You won’t have trouble making out the moles from Sven, so no worries. 2 out of 5

Lasting Appeal : The game is fast and fun and will keep you busy if you are waiting in line for the movies. Don’t expect huge amounts of depth, you are hitting moles in the head with a hammer, just enjoy.

Overall: 3 of 5

1 = Not worth the bandwidth.

2= Demo is enough, not worth your money.

3= Game is good, depending on the price, seriously consider picking it up.

4= Worth your money. Should provide some good times for quite awhile.

5= Buy the game. Lock your door. Pick up a case of beer. This could take all night.

Here are some more shots of the game:

For more about Sven and Vlad’s check out Frenzy Island or information about the Garden Stories series and the latest creations from the Mighty Troglodytes.