Safari Dash is an endless running game from independent developer Draken Development. This one however differs greatly from many of the other endless running games out there. Most are either side scrollers or jumping type games, but this one much different and utilizes a forward running type style of gameplay where you need to stay on your toes to avoid obstacles you can not see until the last moment. In Safari Dash, you’ll be playing as Dr. Stillrock who must run from a rampaging rhino. How long can you last until the rhino gets you? Dodge obstacles and jump over pits to find out.

This is a very easy game to pick up and play. Casual gamers will enjoy it as well as more experienced players. To run, you hold down on the left of the screen. Safari Dash utilizes the iPhone’s accelerometer to steer Dr. Stillrock either left or right. The more you tilt, the faster he moves left or right. You’ll need to do this to avoid trees and rocks which will be in your way. Occasionally you’ll also encounter deadly pits that you’ll need to jump over. To jump, you just tap on the right side of the screen.

The graphics in the game are pretty good and there is a lot of detail in the levels. Most of the drawn objects in the game are 2D based, but the game has a 3D like feel to it as you are running forward. It’s a nice effect that offers fast gameplay and zero slowdowns. The graphics and user interface does have that indie feel to it, but I think that is all part of the charm in this game.

Safari Dash is what I would consider an evolution of the endless running genre. It’s the first forward running game I’ve come across on the iPhone and I’m guessing that it’s probably not going to be the last now. As one of the first though, it does a good job of setting the benchmark fairly high and anyone who picks up this game will be surprised at how fun the game is and how easy it is to just pick up and play. You’ll also appreciate the fact that each time you play Safari Dash, the level will be completely different as they are randomly generated on the fly. This means the game has great replay value as you’ll never play the same level twice. It’s a great game that really shows off what an indie developer can come up with.

Safari Dash is available now in the App Store for $0.99. It is compatible with iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad. Requires iOS 3.0 or later.