In Angry Birds, players take control of a flock of birds that are attempting to retrieve eggs that have been stolen by a group of evil pigs.
[1]On each level, the pigs are sheltered by structures made of various materials such as wood, ice and stone, and the object of the game is to eliminate all the pigs in the level. Using a slingshot, players launch the birds with the intent of either hitting the pigs directly or damaging the structures, which would cause them to collapse and kill the pigs.
[2] In higher stages of the game, additional objects such as explosive crates and rocks are found in the levels, and may be used in conjunction with the birds to destroy hard-to-reach pigs.
There are several different types of birds used in the game. In the earliest levels, the basic red bird is the only one available.
[1] As the player advances through the game, additional types of birds become available, some of which have special abilities that are activated by tapping the touchscreen while the bird is airborne.
[2] For example, a blue bird will separate into three smaller birds,
[1] a black bird will explode
[2] and a white bird will drop explosive eggs.
[1] The pigs themselves also appear in different sizes. While small pigs are relatively weak and are easily destroyed either by direct hits or by debris from the damaged structures, larger pigs are able to sustain more damage. Also, some pigs wear helmets as armor, making them more resistant to damage.
Each level starts with the number, types, and order of birds pre-determined.
[1]If all of the pigs are defeated by the time the last bird is used, the level is completed and the next level is unlocked.[1] Points are scored for each pig defeated as well as for damage to, or destruction of, structures, and bonus points are awarded for any unused birds. Upon completing each level, players receive one, two, or three stars, depending on the score received. Players may re-attempt levels as many times as they wish, and may also replay completed levels in an attempt to improve their score.