While it looks like an oh-so-simple avoid the object game, Brian Cable's Formation adds a tough new twist. Instead of simply moving one object around the screen to avoid the falling dots, you must control an entire formation of balls that rotate and periodically change position. Touch one of the flashing white orbs that fall from the top of the screen and it becomes part of your formation, thus forcing you to be mindful of yet another ball's position and causing your brain to hurt.

The one saving move you have in the game is the ability to shrink by holding down the mouse button. Normally your score increases as time goes by, but while in compact mode your score counts down. The goal of Formation is to get as high of a score as you can and proudly list your name on the top of the online score board. While it's certainly tempting to hold the mouse button down and never let go, you must resist the urge. Grabbing one of the flashing white orbs will clear the screen, but the going will be ten times more difficult with a larger formation to contend with.

Analysis: After playing a few rounds of this game, my brain really does hurt. It's tough having to keep track of a whole set of objects, their location on the screen and where the falling orbs are while simultaneously extrapolating your formation's path and choosing where you can go for safety. On the other hand, I'm sure it's a great way to train yourself to be a watchful parent of several children.

Everything about Formation is bare-bones simple. The visual presentation definitely won't win any awards, the music is fine and is easy to forget about when you're so intently focused on your collection of orbs. The mouse controls are fluid and offer precision movement if you can keep a steady hand. It's a simple diversion that offers something a little different in a genre of games we're so familiar with.

Play Formation

Cheers to Rhys and Christian for sending this one in!