Fri Apr 12 2019
• Added iCloud sync for cross-device play
• Improvements for iPad
• Deselect now requires a two-finger tap
• Bug fixes and improvements
Rolando: Royal Edition is a triumphant return of a true mobile gaming pioneer. Back in 2008, the original Rolando defined what an iPhone game could be, and this remastered 'Royal Edition' brings that magic to the modern era with stunning 4K-ready visuals and a buttery smooth frame rate. The game remains a masterclass in physics-based puzzle platforming. Using a combination of device tilting and screen tapping, you guide a group of round, charismatic 'Rolandos' through a world that feels like a living storybook.
The level design is where the game truly shines. Each world introduces new mechanics—from sticky surfaces to water physics—that keep the puzzles fresh. The 'Royal Edition' also includes new levels and refined controls that make the experience feel native to modern touchscreens. The soundtrack, composed by Mr. Scruff, is as catchy and iconic as ever, perfectly complementing the whimsical art style. It’s a rare game that feels both nostalgic and incredibly innovative. If you own an iPhone and haven't played Rolando, you are missing out on a piece of gaming history that is still as fun today as it was over a decade ago.
Stunningly remastered 4K-style graphics
Innovative tilt-and-touch physics controls
Dozens of challenging, creative levels
Iconic soundtrack by Mr. Scruff
Charming story and character-driven gameplay
To move multiple Rolandos at once, drag your finger across the screen to draw a box around them. This is essential for levels where you need to push heavy objects or move as a pack to avoid traps.
Not all Rolandos are the same. Some can stick to walls, while others are extra heavy. Pay attention to the type of Rolando you are controlling to solve specific environmental puzzles.
It is a complete remaster of the original 2008 game, featuring updated graphics, refined mechanics, and brand-new levels not found in the original release.
We enjoyed the original versions of Rolandos nearly a decade ago and were sad when it was dropped from the App Store. If you missed it the first time around, please don’t do that again. This is more than a re-release. With new graphics, a smoother and faster feel, updated sound effects, and the superb soundtrack from Mr. Scruff, this version is a real gem. If this is your first time getting acquainted with the Rolandos and enjoying their world is simple but they can get into sticky situations and will need your help. The challenging puzzles get addictive as you save your Rolly-Polly friends from the “baddies”. Capture the diamonds and solve the puzzles before the timer expires to win gold and max out your score. Our entire family loves this game. We hope the Rolandos are back forever. Don’t miss this must have game.
I played the original version of Rolando and Rolando 2 a few years ago and I had the urge to play it again. But a while ago I checked for them and was pretty bummed when they were gone from the App Store. Now though, it's here to stay! It's great that you guys brought this game back, since it was one of my favorites. And normally I don't pay for games, but this was only a dollar and I missed it. By the way, I'm not done with the game yet, so I was wondering if the bonus levels are still here? And will you guys ever plan on rereleasing the second game as well? I think I liked that one better than the first (that doesn't mean I don't like the first one though).
By far the makings of a great game. But Tilt controls kill the experience for me. When I realized you were forcing Tilt, the first place I headed was the settings menu. And to my surprise no control options other than, you got it, Tilt sensitivity. I saw in another review you mentioned possible MFI controller support and that would be a great option. But why no onscreen virtual controls? Doesn’t seem reasonable to force Tilt unless you are willing to whip out a MFI controller. There are many scenarios where neither Tilt nor MFI controller support are useful or practical options. And imo a creative virtual control solution would enhance gameplay when done right. Tilt controls here seem like an easy way out imo. You have a great game here, now make it even better with more control options and secure the coveted Game of the Year!!
I first downloaded this game in 2010 when I owned the original iPad. It was a great game, I always remembered it. When I found out that they brought a remastered version of the game to 64-bit devices, I couldn’t wait to buy it!! I’m playing a game I originally played on the original ipad, but I’m playing it on a bloody iPhone 13! How awesome is that! Amazing game, especially tilting. New games are so boring and make no use of the iPhones features, while this game was built in the prime of iOS when everyone was experimenting with the iOS SDK. TLDR great game!!
I had missed this game so much! It was my absolute favorite back when it came out and I was so bummed that it was discontinued for a while. This remake is so great! Same characters with official names, slightly different dialogue, new artwork, and same awesome music by Mr. Scruff! I’d like to see if there’s an option to turn off the constant 3D tilting though, it’s a good upgrade, but an option to turn it off would be awesome! Can’t wait for a remake of the sequel and see more later on! Thanks HandCircus!
This was the first truly innovative and amazing new iPhone game. It proved to me that a platform adventure could work on the iPhone by using mechanisms and design that might not work at all on other platforms. I loved Rolando and Rolando 2. We were promised Rolando 3 to complete the story, but the company changed its business model before it could be developed, and it never happened. Hopefully this return signals the designers revisiting the Rolando world further.
To this day, the Rolando series has been one of my favorite games to play on the iPhone. So, I was thrilled when I learned it would be returning to the App Store with stunning new graphics. I hope more of the older iOS games make a return because this title was definitely a front-runner for gaming in its time. It’s been so long since I last played Rolando, so it feels like a brand new experience!
This has the bones of a good game, but there’s a reason tilt controls have been ditched by most devs making platformers. They’re imprecise by default. And I have muscle tremors. So relying on them for this kind of gameplay is just maddening. It’s impossible to enjoy because these little roller dudes are so difficult to control. If you’re really going through all the effort of remastering a beloved game, you should rethink more than aesthetics. I can’t play this game now because nobody thought that maybe they should consider accessibility and include more control schemes. Whatever. I’m glad others are enjoying it.
Each and every day new mobile games are hitting the App Store, and so each week we put together a big old list of all the best new releases...
TouchArcade Tue Apr 23 2019