Crossy Road

Crossy Road is an endless hopping game from Hipster Whale. It takes the idea of the classic arcade game Frogger and gives it a blocky, colourful look. You tap to hop a character forward, swipe sideways to move left or right and swipe or tap back to retreat. The aim is to cross as many roads, rivers and railway tracks as possible without being hit by a vehicle, drowning or being caught by a threat that appears if you stay still for too long.

The basic rules
Each hop moves you one square. Roads have cars and trucks that travel at different speeds. Rivers have logs and lily pads that carry you, and you must jump from one to the next. Railway tracks have trains that arrive with a warning signal, and you need to wait for them to pass. If you stay in one place too long, an eagle swoops down to catch you, which keeps the game moving. The world is created as you go, so no two runs are the same.

Characters and collecting
There are many characters to unlock, including animals, objects and creatures with unusual looks. Many of them change the visual theme of the world as well. You earn coins during runs, and you can use them in a prize machine that gives you a random character. Because you do not choose which character you receive, it works like a small collectible system. It is optional, and the game plays the same way whichever character you use. If you are concerned about random rewards for younger players, you can decide not to use the machine.

Strategy
Look at the row ahead before you hop. Wait for gaps in traffic, and remember that vehicles in different lanes move at different speeds. Do not hop onto a log if you cannot see the next one. Keep to the middle of the screen so that you have room to avoid being pushed off the edge by a moving log. If you need to wait, make small sideways hops rather than standing still, because the eagle only responds to inactivity. Take your time on busy roads, and move quickly through easy sections.

Ads, purchases and age suitability
The game is free to download, shows advertising and offers optional purchases such as coins and ad removal. The style is cartoon-like and mild. Crashes and falls are presented without blood or gore. Parents may still want to supervise purchases and discuss the random prize system.

Who it suits
It suits casual players of all ages who enjoy simple controls and a sense of discovery. It is a good game for short breaks, and it is easy to hand to someone who does not usually play games. Players who want story or difficulty may find it too light.

How it compares
Compared with Subway Surfers, you move step by step rather than continuously. Compared with Temple Run, it is calmer and gives you time to think.

Our take
Crossy Road is a charming, easy-to-learn arcade game with plenty of personality. The official store link on this page is the safest way to get it.