Feature

App:Test - Audi A4 Challenge

Audi has created one of the first branded games to take advantage of the iPhone's accelerometer, writes Tim Dunn head of marketing services at MIG.

The Audi A4 Challenge game for the iPhone
The Audi A4 Challenge game for the iPhone

The Audi A4 Challenge is a free iPhone game allowing users to drive the saloon car using the iPhone's accelerometer

What does the app do?

This Micro-Machines-style racer gives you the chance to race the A4, while avoiding cones on either side of the track.

What are your first impressions?

I am put off by consumer reviews, including: "If you're going to do a free game to promote your cars, don't make it feel like there's a drunk at the wheel!" It also looks a little dull.

Describe the consumer experience.

Using the left-right tilt of the handset to steer is initially fun, but standard driving-game features have been omitted. It lacks a multi-touch zooming option to view the track from different perspectives - the kind of function the iPhone was made for.

What's the bottom line?

Branded entertainment has to be as good as what you get in the paid-for market. The app took two weeks to develop - and it shows.