Sony surprises everyone with a free Lemmings mobile game, and it bleeds gacha

Surprising virtually everyone, the PlayStation Blog has revealed that a mobile version of Lemmings is now available. The game is the latest entry in the Lemmings series, which started in 1991 and initially launched on the Amiga.

Even though this version of Lemmings is brand new (being developed by Sad Puppy Limited), the basic concept remains the same as its predecessors. The game is a puzzle-platformer that tasks you with guiding at least a certain percentage of anthropomorphized lemmings through stages filled with obstacles.

Lemmings features some modern changes to bring it into 2018, such as touch controls and procedurally-generated levels. The game also features sharp visuals that remind us of the more recent Rayman games from Ubisoft.

Where the title might fall out of favor with some people is with its gacha elements. This is a free-to-play game that features an energy system, several currencies, and loot boxes. There’s even an in-app purchase for $7 that grants you unlimited energy for two hours. Gross.

The energy system in particular seems to be a big pain, since it’s tied into everything you do when you’re actually playing. Everything from building stairs to digging and placing umbrellas cost energy. That means you’ll run out of energy at some point, even while you’re in a level. Harry Potter: Hogwarts Mystery, anyone?

You can download Lemmings at the link below to see how the game translates to mobile. Keep in mind that in-app purchases go up to $99.99.