The iPhone as a platform has really allowed developers to create a new type of game.  Rather than spitting out a game for $50- $60, studios can now concentrate on those moments where you have a couple minutes to spare, want to pass the time, and are willing to drop 99 cents.  Lifeboat is one of those instances where you won’t find yourself playing for long periods of time. However, it definitely will fill the gaps of your day where you feel compelled to do something other than stare at the girl in front of you at the grocery store.

The concept of the game is quite simple, and it doesn’t really get any more complex as the game progresses.  Your task is to rescue as many passengers from a sinking ship into tiny lifeboats as they appear on screen.  By twisting and tilting the iPhone, you control the incline of the ship deck, causing the many people found on board to go spilling off the sides.  If there happens to be a lifeboat there…success.  Otherwise, they will be tossed into the arctic waters where you can either watch them be torn to pieces by sharks and crocs, or be a good captain and throw the life vest at them for another shot at survival.

Three modes of play are presented (Quick Play, Campaign, and Tutorial), all pretty standard, with no multiplayer options or online leaderboards.  There is the ability to rock out to your own tunes, which is always a plus.  Additionally, when listening to your own tracks, the sound effects still play loud and clear, so you can hear your passengers quirky remarks such as, “This wasn’t in the brochure!?!?”  Another cool feature is the ability to earn money to spend in the upgrade store.  Here you can boost your boats attributes and buy items like swimming lessons (passengers can tread water longer) or water pumps (slows down the rate at which your boat sinks).

Although Lifeboat is a simple game to pick up and play, don’t expect to be playing this one longer than 15 minutes at a time.  I found myself forgetting it was even on my iPhone, but when you do discover it after not playing for a week or two, it will amuse you.  Plus, it’s better to be staring at your iPhone screen then getting slapped in the face by the girl who saw you staring at her in line at the grocery store.