In what I’m hoping will be the first of a regular new MakeUseOf series, each month I’ll be showcasing 5 stunning new free iPad games (and sometimes the iPhone games too). So welcome to part one of the series.
If you haven’t already done so, now would also be a good time to download my Magical iPad Guide which has another set of free game recommendations as well as lots of other great apps and usability tips to help you get the most from your iPad. Check it out and let us know what you think, iPad fans.
Hunters Episode One HD
Appealing to the XCom fan in me, Hunters HD is a deceptively deep and addictive top-down turn-based strategy game that reminds me of the old Games Workshop Space Hulk games, and has so far managed to steal 3 hours of my life away. Taking control of a squad of elite fighters, the gameplay is essentially to head off to a remote location, walk around, and kill everyone. The interface is stunning – you can pinch zoom and rotate your way around the map, and it automatically follows the action cinematic style during the enemies turn. You can customize your squad with various armor and weaponry, and upgrade as you level up with access to heavier weapons and special equipment.
I was a little discouraged the first time I played by how hard it seemed, but I was taking the wrong approach and just running in guns ablaze. This is a strategy game, no doubt about it, and it will take careful planning and cunning use of team members abilities if you are to survive.
The game is free until your fighter’s level exceeds 2, at which point any further levelling requires an in-game purchase. Even if you just play until then, it’s still a good 3 or 4 hours of gameplay, far more time than I’ve spent in most paid iPad games! I can’t guarantee you won’t want to instantly unlock more levels though. [iTunes]
Eco Punk (Ad Supported)
While it doesn’t quite have the depth of Hunters, Eco Punk is a quick little arcade-style game that has you skateboarding around picking up trash and avoiding the polluting cars. OK, you’re not going to spend more than 10 minutes at a time on this, but it’s a well made game and definitely going to keep the kids quiet for a bit. [iTunes]
Highborn HD
If you’re a fan of the Heroes of Might and Magic turn based strategy games, Highborn certainly feels similar, but not so much that I’m prepared to call it a clone. If you have no idea what I’m talking about, then don’t worry either because there’s a thorough tutorial on gameplay mechanics. The graphics are nice and the dialog is hilarious, but I find the interface to be a little clunky. Still, this one will keep you amused for hours, and even has a semi-plot in there, which is unique among most iPad games. [iTunes]
Tilt To Live HD
Unlike most mobile arcade games, Tilt To Live actually requires skill and practice, but you’ll soon get the hang of it. Tilt your device to move the little rocket around the screen and collect power-ups that let you destroy the ever multiplying red dots.
I suggest playing in top down mode until you’re used to the idea of tilting your iPad. Further weapons and game-types are available to unlock as an in-game purchase. [iTunes]
Max Adventure Free:
A simple survival horror that’s surprisingly good. Left thumb controls movement, right thumb controls your ray-gun. Run around fending off the invading aliens until it all becomes too much and they devour you. Collect coins to upgrade stuff. It’s all very simple stuff, but I can’t wait to upgrade to a double ray-gun! Must… finish… article… [iTunes]
What do you think? A nice round-up of new games? Do you have a favourite you’d like me to feature in the next article, if so then fill in the comment form and tell us about it.
Don’t forget to check out these great iPad games round-ups too!
- 5 iPad Games You Won’t Believe Are Free
- 11 Free iPad Board Games
- 10 great free iPad Games
- 6 Free iPad Simulation Games
- And of course, download the Magical iPad Guide for free!
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