Welcome to the roundup of the best new Android applications, games, and live wallpapers that went live in the Play Store or were spotted by us in the previous 2 weeks or so.
Featured App
[appbrain_app name="Strategy & Tactics:USSR vs USA" pname='com.herocraft.game.full.st_ussr_usa' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PrVFEHboG5c']
Today's roundup is presented by Strategy & Tactics:USSR vs USA from HeroCraft. Ah, the memories of the wonderful Cold War, when the whole family would warm themselves from the heat of an irradiated chunk of masonry and hide from Soviet troops marching down Main Street. Herocraft gets novelty points for setting their latest Risk-style strategy game in an alternate history. It's the same gameplay you've come to expect from this series, but this time played out across Europe and North America with new weaponry and vehicles. The game includes online multiplayer for some extra challenge.
--
USSR vs USA is an add-on for Strategy & Tactics: World War II. The Generals, having gone through the trials of the recent war, now lead armies on the battlefields of an alternate reality. A nuclear attack on Beijing was the turning point to set history off at a tangent and create the course of events in the game world. The two Titans entered into a deadly fight. The Soviet army is to put an end to the capitalist system. The Americans have to drive the enemy out and uphold the democratic ideals at all costs.
• 2 alternative history campaigns (17 missions)
• 3 maps in scenario mode
• Global multiplayer across different smartphones and tablets
• Endlessly replayble Skirmish mode
• Juggle military, economic and scientific development
[/appbrain_app]
Games
[appbrain_app name="DEAD TRIGGER 2" pname='com.madfingergames.deadtrigger2' video='']
Android Police review: Dead Trigger 2 Review: I Think There's A Good Game In Here Somewhere, But I'm Not Going To Pay To Find Out
Dead Trigger was one of the first truly high-end Android games to start pushing the graphical envelope, and its sequel does not disappoint on a technical level. With new stages and bosses worthy of Kratos, there's a lot to like about DT2, including full SHIELD and controller support. Unfortunately the free-to-play model is baring its teeth in this one: the difficulty level has been upped significantly, artificially steering players towards expensive in-app purchases.
--
Join the new sequel to Dead Trigger, the popular hit with more than 23M downloads. Download Dead Trigger 2 for FREE and enter a world where humanity is engaged in the ultimate battle for survival in the face of a global Zombie apocalypse. Find a safe place to hide-out, get equipped, and fight for your life in a real time bid for survival against an onslaught of bloodthirsty undead. Join the Global Resistance and fight to crush the Zombie plague that has positioned the Earth on the edge of peril. It’s up to you to provide humanity with a new chance at survival.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Plants vs. Zombies™ 2" pname='com.ea.game.pvz2_na' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wCw3hl29_RY']
Android Police review: Plants Vs. Zombies 2 Review: This Time The Zombies Want Your Brains And Your Money, But That Might Be Okay
EA took its sweet time getting the much-anticipated sequel to Plants vs Zombies over to Android, but now that it's here, there's no denying that it's a polished experience. The core gameplay remains the same, basically a 2D tower defense romp, but the addition of multiple new species of plants and zombies keeps things interesting. EA has made the sequel free-to-play (like all their recent games), but the in-app purchases aren't too egregious. International readers can download the ROW version.
--
The zombies are coming back. It’s about time. The sequel to the hit action-strategy adventure brings the fun to tablets and touchscreens. Join Crazy Dave on a crazy adventure where you’ll meet, greet and defeat legions of zombies from the dawn of time to the end of days. Amass an army of powerful new plants, supercharge them with Plant Food and power up your defenses with amazing new ways to protect your brain. Battle zombies from all worlds in Piñata Party to win big prizes. And that's just the beginning. The future holds many mysteries also zombies. Lots and lots of zombies.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="I, Gladiator" pname='com.btl.bfg' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eq34D-a0Its']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] I, Gladiator Finally Enters The Android Arena With Brutal, Bloody Gameplay (And In-App Purchases) Intact
At first glance I, Gladiator looks like another Infinity Blade clone - restricted combat with tap-and-drag controls, stab, dodge, rinse and repeat. But look closer and you'll see that this game uses a hybrid control scheme, with conventional console-style movement that shifts into touchscreen combat when you focus in on an enemy. It's an elegant combination, and one that's made I, Gladiator extremely popular on iOS. Parents be warned: this one is absolutely not for kids.
--
Welcome to the page of the epic game. I, Gladiator offers an almost too real experience of a bloody gladiatorial combat. This is not a simple hack & slash game. To prevail you would need to be cunning as well as strong, work out a strategy for every level, use environment to your advantage, notice and utilize enemy’s weaknesses and last, but not the least, win that spoiled crowd.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Sky Gamblers: Air Supremacy" pname='com.namcobandaigames.sgas' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xJsfRK0muAo']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] Namco Takes Air Combat Intergalactic With Sky Gamblers: Air Supremacy
The first Sky Gamblers was a shooter with rare WWI style, but the sequel takes the game into the territory of Namco's own Ace Combat series. Air Supremacy features stupid-fast modern planes duking it out in dogfights or (in the IAP for the extra campaign) against honest-to-God aliens. Graphics are a bit dated, but still pretty good considering the fast pace of the game. If you've ever wanted to live out the battle scene from Independence Day, give this one a go.
--
FORGET EVERYTHING ELSE. THIS IS THE ULTIMATE AIR COMBAT GAME. With an extensive single player campaign and revolutionary multiplayer modes, the non-stop action will keep you at the edge of your seat. Become the supreme lord of the skies. Unparalleled visuals, special effects and audio including: bump mapping, atmospheric scattering, volumetric clouds with realistic lighting, sun glare, day & night transitions, God rays and more.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Neon Shadow" pname='com.crescentmoongames.neonshadow' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FUA7DEb1ZUM']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] First-Person Shooter Neon Shadow From Crescent Moon Games Brings Human On Robot Violence To Android [Update x2]
Crescent Moon is one of the more reliable publishers on the Play Store, and their latest game is a full-on first person shooter. Neon Shadow mixes Quake sensibilities (fast characters, big guns, conventional health bars and ammo) with some shiny Halo aesthetics. The game has a full single player story, but if you want to get your three bucks worth, you'll have to jump into online or LAN multiplayer. An initial game-breaking bug seems to have been resolved. Controller and SHIELD support is icing on the cake.
--
Neon Shadow is a fast paced Cyber Punk FPS inspired by classic shooters. Suit up and grab your shotgun. Your mission: Save humanity from the dark mechanoids who have taken control of your space station and soon the rest of the galaxy.:
• Multiplayer.
• Old school first person shooter game-play.
• Single player campaign.
• Online multiplayer death-match mode.
• LAN multiplayer death-match.
• Cyber Punk soundtrack from Abducted by Sharks. (http://abductedbysharks.com/)
• Google Play Game Services.
• Controller support for Moga controllers
• Support for NVIDIA SHIELD
• Controller support for Game Stop Red Samurai
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Combat Monsters" pname='com.rubicon.dev.combatmonsters' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BOOUuUX9XCs']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] Rubicon's Combat Monsters Mixes Card Games, Multiplayer Turn-Based Strategy, And Fantastic Theme Songs
What happens when you combine Rubicon's Great Little War Game series with Pokemon and Magic: Gathering? Well since this is the Combat Monsters section of the roundup, you can probably guess. Turn-based combat with dozens of monsters and heroes on a side is the order of the day, and the developers haven't been stingy with the multiplayer either. You can even play cross-platform with iOS or PC players. Just watch out for those IAPs - free to play and freemium can be a nasty combination.
--
Combat Monsters are not your everyday monsters. They will follow your commands to vanquish the enemy or die a fiery death. Play for FREE against friends right in front of you or on the other side of the globe. Devise strategies that make the most of your deck: will you overrun your adversary with dozens of bloodthirsty creatures? Defend your Hero at all costs with healing spells? Invest heavily in runes and concentrate on a few high-powered cards? With 132 monsters, 70 weapons, 28 shields, 42 spells, 22 runes, 12 Heroes and 120+ maps to choose from, there’s no end to the challenge in Combat Monsters.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Dead Effect" pname='com.bulkypix.deadeffect' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a3h-xGi9u0Q']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] BulkyPix's 'Dead Effect' Is Like Dead Trigger Meets Dead Space (Read: Zombies On A Spaceship)
What's scarier than a zombie? How about zombie in spaaaaace? That seems to be the rationale behind Dead Effect, a zombie title that isn't trying to do anything new unless you count the setting... and combining zombies with space marines is hardly groundbreaking gaming. And there's Bullet Time to boot. That said, the graphics and atmosphere are pretty impressive, and BulkyPix is known for putting out solid titles. If the other zombie games in this list aren't enough for you (and we've got more than the usual infestation this week), give Dead Effect a try.
--
Something is not right, the hibernation pods are all empty. What is happening? You are an elite member of the Unit 13. Fight for your life in a SCI-FI FPS game that will send chills down your spine.
• Grab your phone/tablet, get in control and bring infected horrors down. Your interface is zombie-shooting ready.
• An epic single player campaign awaits you with more than 5 hours of story gameplay. Space is cold and full of horrors.
• Throughout the campaign you will find new weapons and money to upgrade your armory.
• Discover the mysteries of the ESS Meridian, and wander around its impressive environments with intense background music.
• Use your special ability to slow down the time and defeat even the toughest enemies.
• Will you take up the challenge and try to defeat all your enemies in survival mode arenas? Unlock all the achievements and get all the weapons available.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="ARC Squadron: Redux" pname='com.Psyonix.ArcSquadron' video='']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] ARC Squadron: Redux Docks In The Play Store To Revive Your Star Fox Memories
ARC Squadron is more than a little late in its move to Android, but since the game rather shamelessly steals its play style and looks from the Star Fox series, I think we can forgive the developers. It's an on-rails shooter with a surprisingly high production values and a bit of humor as well. The interface in particular is done surprisingly well, too: even with the fast and frantic action of space shooters, it's pretty easy to keep up. Watch out for those IAPs.
--
An evil race known as the Guardians is taking over the universe, ravaging planets, and killing all peaceful life forms. You are the galaxy's only hope for salvation. As an elite pilot serving in the ARC Squadron, you are tasked to take on the Guardians in head-to-head combat and bring down their empire. With simple one-touch controls, you can shoot, blast, and annihilate enemy forces to hunt down each of the nine Guardian lords and destroy them once and for all. The ultimate battle for the galaxy is nigh. Are you on board?
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="FIST OF AWESOME" pname='com.ifightbears.fistofawesome' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gCDDCFXa9pA']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] Fist Of Awesome Jumps From Kickstarter To The Google Play Store, And Punches Every Bear Along The Way
Fist of Awesome is an unapologetic old-school beat-em-up, in the same vein as Streets of Rage and Battletoads. Well, sort of: it stars a time-travelling lumberjack who's trying to repair the universe after it's taken over by sentient bears. Graphics are pixelated and music is chiptune, so if that's not your style you can skip this one. But if you want some solid punchy action without IAPs and with a twisted sense of humor, it's well worth the asking price.
--
Have you ever wanted to punch a bear IN THE MOUTH? When Tim Burr's family disappeared and his house spontaneously burst into flames he thought his day was as about bad as it could get. That's when his hand became self-aware and broke the horrific news that the world was now ruled by bears. Join Tim as he embarks on an epic battle across time and space, unraveling the bear-ridden damage to Earth's timeline. It's a bit like Quantum Leap but with more bears and lumberjacks.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Massteroid" pname='com.mightykingdom.massteroid' video='']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] Massteroid Plummets Towards Earth, Lands Inside The Play Store For $1.99
Massteroid is an interesting reversal of all those disaster movies from the 90s. Instead of trying to stop a giant killer asteroid, you ARE the giant killer asteroid, and it's your job to gain as much mass as possible so your destruction of the Earth is total. You'll dodge missiles, satellites, mines, and even a black hole or two before you make your deep impact. Too grim for you? Try the Space Pizza mode instead.
--
Tilt, tap or drag your way through space, collecting as much space junk as possible as you hurtle towards planet Earth. Become as huge as you can to inflict maximum damage. Watch out for black holes and other hazards that threaten to reduce you as you plummet towards the planet below. The people of Earth aren’t giving up without a fight. As you get closer you’ll have to dodge missiles, mines and other earthly defenses.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Wake the Cat" pname='com.chillingo.wakethecat.android.gplayaja' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UFffIHpTzBA']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] Wake The Cat Is A Physics Puzzler Built From The Ground Up For The Internet To Love
Cats and physics games. Clearly Chillingo designed this to grab Reddit by the throat and not let go. Wake The Cat is a pretty typical puzzle game: the point is to make a Goldberg machine out of toy parts to, you guessed it, wake the cat. Competent 3D graphics and some inventive set pieces combine to make a simple game that should be good for a little time-killing in short bursts. International readers, here's your download.
--
Play with physics and gravity in this dreamy puzzler. Wake a kitten from her endless slumber and dreams of fish by experimenting with meticulously designed contraptions. Fling the yarn across the room and use toy trains, portal slippers, fans and more to help guide the yarn to the dozy cat. Fling a ball of yarn across the floor and use trains, slippers, fans, and other tools to make sure the ball reaches the slumbering kitten. Manipulate pipes and use UFO toys to play with gravity in this cute and adorable physics puzzler.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Rabbids Big Bang" pname='com.ubisoft.rabbids.bigbang.ggp' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IdYkX7tRPDA']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] Those Raving Rabbids Make Their Android Gaming Debut In The Physics-Based Title 'Rabbids Big Bang'
Ubisoft's Rabbids, sort of a deranged take on Mario Party, have quickly outgrown their Rayman origins. That Mario comparison is pretty apt, because this mobile adaptation is all about launching them into space a la the start of every Mario Galaxy level. Gameplay is somewhere between Tiny Tower and Angry Birds Space, with lots of off-beat humor thrown in for good measure. There are in-app purchases, but they mostly revolve around cosmetic upgrades.
--
Forget the Milky Way. This is the Rabbids Way. Rabbids Big Bang is the first Rabbids physic-based game on mobile devices that lets you pilot a Rabbid in space with the tip of your finger.
- BECOME AN EXPERT RABBID PILOT WITH ONLY ONE FINGER.
- Use a bat to thrust a Rabbid into space
- and control its trajectory using the jetpack and planet gravity.
- Play tactically as your fuel will drain when you boost.
- Don’t crash into the planets... unless you’re asked to.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Call of Duty®: Strike Team" pname='com.activision.callofduty.striketeam' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NdKd3G9_mtM']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] Call Of Duty: Strike Team Arrives On Android, Albeit With Limited Device Compatibility
Call of Duty is the undisputed king of modern shooters. It's kind of amazing that it took Activision this long to make a full mobile version. Strike Team combines a standard FPS mode with an overhead view, which allows players to plan out the tactical movements of their squad. Unfortunately the game looks like a typically sloppy mobile tie-in: poor compatibility, buggy performance, bad controls, and lackluster visuals (despite the enormous 1.9GB download) sour the experience. It doesn't help that the game is $7 plus in-app purchases.
--
Call of Duty®: Strike Team delivers an all-new, first-person and third-person Call of Duty® experience built from the ground up for mobile and tablet devices. Fully customize your squad’s loadouts and abilities before leading them into combat in diverse gameplay environments. Call of Duty®: Strike Team features the revolutionary ability to dynamically switch from run-and-gun first-person view to reconnaissance and coordinated squad attacks in third-person view.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Grand Theft Auto: iFruit" pname='com.rockstargames.ifruit']
Android Police coverage: New Game: Rockstar [Finally] Releases iFruit For Android
In the world of Grand Theft Auto nothing is safe from parody, albeit the kind that giggles at Whoopie cushions and four letter words. With GTA5 brings its sardonic tone into the semi-real world with the iFruit app, a somewhat belated pastiche of useless iPhone apps... which adds a further level of confusion by being useful. You can use it to create and customize in-game vehicles for your characters. And also there's a Neopets game. Why not?
--
How would we survive without apps? Apps can transform your mobile device into essential tools like a harmonica, disco ball or convincing moustache. Somewhere out there is the perfect storm of touchscreen technology to fix everything that’s wrong with your life. And maybe all you’re missing is the iFruit app. Maybe not. At least you’ll have something to keep you entertained while your significant other prattles on endlessly about their day.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Ghost Toasters - Regular Show" pname='com.turner.ghosttoasters' video='']
Android Police coverage: [New Game] Ghost Toasters Calls On The Cast Of Regular Show To Slay Phantoms, Because The Ghostbusters Couldn't Be Bothered
You might not be able to tell from the title, but this here game is a licensed property based on Cartoon Network's Regular Show. I'm not a fan of newer cartoons (in my day our heroes shot bad guys in face-obscuring helmets, dammit!), but this one's a platform shooter, so at least you'll get some mileage out of the concept. Shoot ghosts like it's 1984, then use the loot to unlock costumes for the cartoon's main characters.
--
Save the park from a ghostly invasion in this REGULAR SHOW PLATFORM SHOOTER. Gear up with the latest high-tech weaponry and toast some killer ghosts. Hot Dog Guy loves his hot dogs extra hot, with lots of ghost peppers. But when Mordecai and Rigby accidentally knock his savory snack into the graveyard, its supernatural spice summons an army of ancient ghosts. Unleash a spooky smackdown with a huge variety of characters. Play as Mordecai, Rigby, Pops, Margaret, Eileen, Baby Ducks, Thomas, Skips, Muscle Man, Benson, Guardian of Eternal Youth, Gary and Techmo.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Random Heroes" pname='com.noodlecake.randomheroes' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GLTyDeyHdNs']
Publisher Noodlecake and developer Ravenous Games have teamed up for another run around the familiar stomping grounds of fast-paced, gun-toting platforming. This time you're given a wide variety of player characters and weapons, which you can use to shoot your way through 40 levels of kooky Contra-style action. Ever wanted to play as a cheerleader with a minigun? How about Abe Lincoln with a bazooka? It's all there, along with Noodlecake's signature tight touch controls.
--
From the creators of the award winning platform game League of Evil comes Ravenous Games' new action platformer Random Heroes!! Brought to Android by Noodlecake Games! A group of unlikely heroes are set out to save the world. Monsters from another dimension are trying to take over Earth. Blast your way through these invaders in this action platformer! Collect coins and upgrade your weapons and characters to become stronger, faster and more lethal!
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="AERENA Alpha" pname='com.cliffhanger.AErena' video='']
Arena looks like someone dropped a bunch of B-list characters from Final Fantasy VII into a tactical RPG, and that's basically what it is. Ridiculous haircuts, oversized weapons, airships - you get the picture. But Arena is all about the turn-based combat, which seems to be both complex and stylish. This game is an alpha version of the latest hero-based free-to-play multiplayer RPG, so get your kicks in before the rich kids start abusing the IAP system.
--
This is a free public Alpha version of our upcoming Aerena app, which is not feature complete but completely free. Let us know your feedback and help us improve the game. ÆRENA is a tactical, hero-centric combat game with a unique Ætherpunk setting. Command formidable Champions, employ powerful Æther Shells and challenge your brain - not your fingers - in strategic, turn-based combat. ÆRENA offers true cross-platform gameplay. Battle your friends and other players, or hone your combat skills in solo training -- anytime, anywhere.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Wraithborne" pname='com.alphadoggames.Wraithborne' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6sqhxtOm_JM']
At first Wraithborne looks like a pretty standard top-down hack and slash action game, but there's some thoughtful design going into this one. The story is pretty standard, but it informs the gameplay: your character's super-special powers are activated via mystic runes, which the player activates by drawing on the screen. That's a nice application of the touchscreen. Other interesting elements include stat-adjusting armor sets and some genuinely epic music. The game is free to play, but you might run out of levels (12) before you get to the IAP-inspired grind. The initial release has some compatibility issues.
--
Wraithborne is an intense Action/Adventure game with RPG elements developed by the indie team at Alpha Dog Games. When magic returned to the world, everything changed in an instant. All that remains of the past are the crumbling ruins of the fallen Age of Humanity. The old legends - wraiths, goblins and werewolves - stalk the lands. Now, one born of their greatest fear will claim the power of the Runes and protect what remains of humanity. You are Wraithborne.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="HELLO HERO™" pname='com.fincon.globalHH' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AJfPJ-J222w']
We are not wanting for multiplayer RPGs today. Hello Hero is a decidedly goofy take on the exploding sub-genre - the trailer below is pretty good. It looks like this one has more standard turn-based combat without the directional and distal component of a tactical RPG. Hello Hero has a big focus on social gaming and in-app purchases, so consider yourself warned if that's not your style.
--
In Hello Hero, the epic, fast-paced, social Role Playing Game, assemble the ultimate team of unlikely heroes ranging from the traditional (a knight in shining armor) to the inexplicable (a guitar-wielding cactus that heals with the soothing sounds of his music) to earn rewards, compete with friends and battle with bosses to defeat the diabolical force and save the galaxy!
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="D&D Arena of War" pname='com.mobage.ww.a1413.DnD_Android' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WoVs_AgNwX8']
If you prefer your dungeons and/or dragons without pewter or dice, then give Arena of War a try. Admittedly the typical gameplay is banking on the most famous name in fantasy gaming to make it interesting, but a mix-and-match card system for swappable special attacks is somewhat novel. Combat is turn-based, but more interesting than the typical JRPG thanks to a unique directional component to the tap-and-hold interface. A time-based IAP scheme, sort of like a fantasy version of Real Racing 3, is a bit of a bummer.
--
Arena of War, the first free-to-play Dungeons & Dragons game on mobile, is a thrilling 3D battle role-playing game that takes place in the famous Forgotten Realms. The Sundering, a historic event that will reshape the world and the heavens, is underway and threatens the balance of power between the gods of good and evil. You will be called upon as a champion to fight on behalf of good against the adversaries of evil and help set the balance of power before the Sundering is complete.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Mechs vs Aliens" pname='com.tov.google.MechsVsAliens' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1KM8mugeUBI']
Somebody's seen Pacific Rim one too many times. Mechs vs Aliens delivers on the simple premise, although not in the way you might think. The screenshots below look like a pretty typical fighter, but the action is turn based, so the gameplay is more Pokemon than Mortal Kombat. Story, arcade, and survival modes are included, but unfortunately there is no multiplayer element. The developer says it's coming soon.
--
Transform into a giant mech of destruction and battle deadly extraterrestrial kaiju monsters to save our planet! Play this FREE turn-based fighting game in which you take control of elite war robots to defend the Earth from alien invaders. Under attack by alien monsters! All the world’s nations are united in the Planetary Council to defend the world against enormous alien aggressors.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Kingdom Tactics" pname='com.com2us.kingdomtactics.normal.freefull.google.global.android.common' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C3bytTCQRUE']
If Game of Thrones was remade as a Flash cartoon, it might look a lot like Kingdom Tactics. You control a tiny army real-time strategy style, trying to get into various fortresses and kill all the dudes (tactical term). And yes, it has dragons. Sprite graphics are nice and easy on the hardware, but the game is singe-player only. Then again, given developer Com2Us' rather slavish dedication to the F2P model, maybe that's a good thing.
--
The next evolution of Action Strategy gaming! ≪Kingdom Tactics≫! Take part in a battle of strategic tactics to reclaim the lost throne! A massive-scale war game taking place over a vast and beautiful map! Assemble an army of diverse characters, dragons, and Heroes to rebuild the defeated kingdom and restore peace throughout the continent! This game is free to play, but you can choose to buy items with real money. Some paid items may be refundable depending on the type of item
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Robo & Bobo" pname='com.nicetouchgames.roboandbobo' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4hi8149UhWk']
More robots, you say? Robo & Bobo is more adorable than action-oriented, but the novel premise of a giant robot rescuing his teddy bear was enough to get it on this list. This one is a puzzle game masquerading as a platformer: you've got to plan out the robot's moves before starting the level by inputting a "program." Graphics are pretty good, and the 3D stages have a lot of environmental variables to tease your brain.
--
Inside a vast robot factory scientists are testing a robot's love for his teddy bear to the limits... Can you use the simple controls to command Robo and help him pass all the tests so he can finally be reunited with his adorable (and only) friend Bobo?
- Adorable and funny characters
- Tricky 3D puzzles
- Beautiful 3D graphics
- Program a robot without typing any code
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Oh My Heroes!" pname='com.trinitigame.android.aceknight' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_qnvByOJ9pc']
What happens when you mix Battleheart aesthetics, hack-and-slash mechanics, and online multiplayer? If you download Oh My Heroes!, you might just find out. This side-scroller throws in a ton of old-school combat and RPG elements with a MOBA framework and no small amount of humor. There's also a single player mode where you can hone your skills.... but unfortunately, you'll need an active internet connection even if you're going solo.
--
Long, long ago in a realm far, far away, it was all peace and happy. But one day, the Magic Crystals fall from above, full of magical energies that can even give people the ability of respawn. Endless battles then began for the control of the Magic Crystal. Now it's your destiny to fight and discover the unknown power behind them. Partner with online teammates and beat the opposite team to collect the Magic Crystals. Hire more heroes and upgrade their unique skills.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Audionaut" pname='com.horizonproductions.audionaut' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fJoBlHHCKo4']
It's Audiosurf on your phone. If you've somehow managed to avoid every Steam sale in the last two years, Audiosurf is a game that generates dynamic Guitar Hero-style levels based on your own local music, but instead of a plastic guitar, you get a spaceship (or in this case a rocketeer). It's an interesting experience, but know that you can only use music that's actually on your phone, and the difficulty of the levels generally matches the tempo of the song.
--
Audionaut is an interstellar rhythm runner that allows you to zoom your way through the galaxy to the beat of your favourite songs! Tap your way to the top of the leaderboard playing custom levels generated from your own music collection. Instant loading and a state of the art music algorithm lets you fully experience your music. Collect as many notes as you can to gain the highest score and prove your musicianship.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Rise To Fame" pname='com.levelbit.arisetofame' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hDiEuVX8jWQ']
Rounding out this role-playing edition of the Bonus Round is Rise To Fame, an unconventional entry to say the least. Your RPG party is a travelling band, and your objective is to entertain rather than kill. Instruments are weapons, outfits are armor, and reactions honed by countdown combat will help you dodge the occasional beer bottle. The premise is interesting, it's just too bad that the developers couldn't spring for real music as in the Guitar Hero games and their imitators. +1 point for originality... -1 point for zombies.
--
Rise To Fame is a new type of RPG where you can lead your band as a pack of warriors and fight against demanding and angry crowds! Rise To Fame brings you the rich experience of a music RPG to enjoy on the go. It's a reaction RPG where you can behave like a real rockstar: smash your guitar, dodge projectiles from the angry drunken crowd, get the girl's attention (be careful, this may harm you!) and play for everyone from cowboys to zombies while you tour the world on your rise to fame!
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Real Steel World Robot Boxing" pname='com.jumpgames.rswrb' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJgN3biH2vg']
It's still a mystery to me why the original Real Steel didn't use its Rockem Sockem Robots license to the fullest. It's even more mysterious why the lackluster mobile tie-in gets a sequel when the movie itself doesn't. You know how this goes: big, simple fights, lots of currency-based upgrades, and a bunch of robots that look startlingly similar. At least there's a multiplayer component (WiFi only) and a few customization options.
--
Become a robot champion ONCE AGAIN. Fans of the smash hit Real Steel with 10 Millions Downloads comes next version with More Robots, More Action and More Fun. Real Steel World Robot Boxing packs bigger punches, harder-hitting battles, and double the action of its predecessor Reel Steal with better graphics, brand new robots, more modes and head-to-head multiplayer. In the not-so-distant future where boxing is taken to the extreme, people and robots synch up for a larger-than-life entertainment experience.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Alien Apocalypse" pname='com.CatfishBlues.AApocalypse' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URd_1b-X9UI']
You can guess pretty much everything you need to know about Alien Apocalypse from looking at the screenshots. 3D endless runner? Check. Generic evil bad guys? Check. Vehicular sections for powered-up destruction? Check. Free to play with in-app currency for upgrades? You got it. It looks like a serviceable time-killer with some impressive presentation, but don't fall down the IAP rabbit hole.
--
Bad and Ugly aliens are setting up their bases in the heart of the tropical jungles of the planet and everything now seems lost... but fortunately the human race has Zambo on their side! Zambo, the arsenal man, alone is worth a whole army! Equipped with bombs, pistol, machine gun, plasma gun, flamethrower and bazooka ... is an unstoppable force! And what of his personal and powerful robot "the pulper" that he can drive in battle? Who can stop Zambo? Perhaps the horde of horrible and slimy alien creatures from other worlds?
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Dream of Pixels" pname='com.noodlecake.dreamofpixels' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7oh-LInySM']
What would happen if your flipped Tetris on its head and made the goal meticulous destruction instead of patient line-clearing? That's the gist of Dream of Pixels, an unaccountably beautiful puzzler from the folks at Noodlecake. The main mode isn't much more than time attack, but various other takes on the core concept can add a bit of strategy and tension. The ever-shifting pastel visuals and soothing pseudo-techno music put this one broadly in the "zen" category.
--
It is time to experience one of the best reviewed mobile games of 2012 now for FREE! Dream of Pixels for Free is a beautiful falling blocks puzzle game. A brilliant twist on the old classic - unpack tetromino blocks instead of the usual packing. Tap on the mesmerizing grid to unpack tetrominos and watch them spin, rotate and fall. Clear the lines from the beautiful cloudy grid fast enough - or it's dream over.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Terrene" pname='com.junongx.terrene' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bABLCPQYI48']
They say that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. If that's true then Asteroids should be downright smitten with Terrene, which imitates the look and feel of the original space shooter to a T. But the core gameplay is reversed: in Terrene you use a tractor beam to get closer to the asteroids, narrowly avoiding them and making them smash into each other as you progress through the levels. It's a novel idea, even if the presentation is derivative.
--
A smartphone game about space physics, social interaction and logophilia. Asteroids are both your friends and your enemies. Use them to move ahead, but don't get too close. Uncover the lore of mankind on the way. Lost in unknown space with a broken engine, the player is to use Tractor Beam and utilize physic to maneuvre among asteroids, which would either assist or destroy you.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Move: A Brain Shifting Puzzle" pname='com.nitako.move' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yjHCeZBezs']
Move has an interesting take on the sliding puzzle: every time you swipe, all of your circular pieces move in the same direction. You'll have to use the various greyed-out blocks to stop their movement and get the round pegs to their square holes. It's kind of like a Sokoban game where you move the floor instead of the blocks. Again, textual descriptions really don't do this type of game any favors, so check out the video below.
--
Move is a free brain shifting puzzle game, in which all the dots move together! The dots always move unless they are blocked. To solve this brain puzzle, move all the dots onto the colored squares. Play through hundreds of free brain shifting puzzles. The puzzles starts off simple and laid back with 3 dots in the same color and move into super challenging and brain shifting puzzles with 5 colors that will move your brain. Are you ready for a serious brain shifting puzzle and evolve your brain? Move dots! solve puzzles! make your brain awesome!
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="The Rockets" pname='com.localspace.rockets' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mc7fadZKBE4']
Blacked-out foreground and pastel background is developer code for "indier than thou." While this art style has been beaten with so many sticks that it could really use a rest, I don't think it's ever been applied to a space shooter before. You've got your standard waves of enemies and screen-filling attacks, plus the usual upgrade path that comes with single-player F2P games. Wait a second. Is that a Cylon Raider? Instant download.
--
The Rockets is an arcade boss-based shoot 'em up. Take control of your space-ship and starting blasting your way through cool & unique levels. As you progress through the adventure style campaign you'll be able to upgrade your ship and unlock new abilities by spending loot acquired from fallen enemies. The game is simple to play - yet strangely addictive and challenging. Start blasting your way to victory now!
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Chickens Can't Fly" pname='com.amusedsloth.ccf' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-q5McZCnzIU']
Why can't chickens fly? Well as a species there are various evolutionary forces at work, but I'm betting the reason that this one in particular can't fly is that he's being dismembered by elaborate deathtraps. This is another "endless falling" game, kind of like Tiny Tower in reverse, where you play a chicken plummeting through the most elaborate processing plant ever. 80 levels and a somewhat twisted sense of humor make this one worth a look.
--
Plunge towards the depths of a chicken-powered science facility! Chickens Can't Fly is here to give you endless free-falling excitement in a wacky world. Fall through all 80+ levels of the game. Avoid meat-grinders in the butchery, pass silently through the scary cemetery, bravely face a battlefield, survive the science lab and dive deep underwater! Use over 30 wacky power-ups to make your life easier, or crazy power-downs to make it challenging and rack up huge score multipliers.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="The Adventures of Mosaika" pname='com.firemaplegames.joe.Mosaika_iOS' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZR00N4nORA']
If you're a dedicated follower of the storied Myst franchise, well, there are probably better things that you can be doing with your time. But if you're also desperate for a story-driven first-person adventure game, then Mosaika will probably satisfy. Between the hand-painted 2D environments, the old-school adventure mechanics, and the built-in hint system (thank you, developers!) there's at least a dollar's worth of entertainment to be had.
--
The strange feeling you had all day followed you to bed that night. A sudden crash from the next room wakes you from dreams of magical lands, and sets your heart racing in your chest. Sitting bolt upright in bed, the strange feeling returns as your eyes adjust to the darkness, focusing on the odd wooden symbols across the mantel of the fireplace. Almost as if something were calling you... Turning on the lamp, you cautiously get up, moving towards the sound that woke you.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Sunny Hillride" pname='com.headupgames.sunnyhillride' video='']
You got your physics engine in my endless runner! Sunny Hillride looks like a pretty typical entry in the genre, and it is, but it throws in some motocross jumps for your heavily-laden sedan to launch off of. Keeping the car straight and smooth is the name of the game (or at least it would be, if the name wasn't "Sunny Hillride"), and perfect control of the one-button gas pedal is essential to winning. A surprising lack of in-app purchases in this free game makes it worth a look.
--
Race and jump across hilly, colorful landscapes of forests, deserts, snowy mountains and beautiful meadows. Make sure that you don't run out of gas and don't lose your luggage performing daredevil stunts – the roof of your RV is piled precariously high. Suitcases, bags, the birdcage and your fellow travelers must arrive safely at the holiday resort - else you won't get the full score. Start your craziest family holiday with a turbulent and crazy family journey in Sunny Hillride - even your pet parrot is on board!
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Haunted House" pname='com.storytoys.hauntedhouse.paid.GooglePlay' video='']
We usually place these activity book apps in the app roundup, but this one falls on the game side of that thin content line thanks to a handful of included minigames. It's definitely kid-oriented, with the usual narration and follow-the-bouncing-ball features in the pop-up book section of the app. The content shouldn't be seriously scary for most youngsters.
--
Haunted House is a spooky Halloween activity book packed full of ghoulish games, awesomely eerie activities, and things that go bump in the night. As night falls in the deep, dark forest, monsters are stirring in the Haunted House. Do come in ~ if you DARE. Meet the monsters, play the games, then complete the challenges to win spooktastic badges and stars.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Asterix: Total Retaliation" pname='com.bulkypix.asterix2' video='']
If you're an insatiable fan of French comic book character Asterix, and also a fan of Plants vs Zombies... then you should probably still forget about this game and play PvZ2 instead. But if you can't be dissuaded, just consider this game Gauls vs Romans. The art in the game isn't all that great (though it does conform to the characters) and gameplay could only be called derivative, but it does include a few minigames for the sake of variety.
--
The Romans are definitely stubborn. More determined than ever, they are planning once again to get their hands on the famous magic potion. This time, they’ve come with a stupid, evil plan: to invade the Gaul village and fight until one of them manages to grab Getafix’s cauldron. Hordes of legionaries emerge in succession across the battlefield from the Roman camps surrounding the village: Aquarium, Babaorum, Laudanum and Petibonum. Fortunately, Asterix, Obelix, Dogmatix and all the village’s inhabitants will be nearby to give you a hand in countering the attacks and defend the village.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="99 Waves to Die" pname='com.SpookyFishGames.p99waves' video='']
If you want a dirt-simple twin-stick shooter and nothing else, 99 Waves To Die is right up your wormhole. It's yet another game that wears its 8-bit inspiration on its shoulder, though the actual gameplay is more Geometry Wars than Space Invaders. (Holy crap, even the joysticks look like tiny little HAL 9000 eyes.) Give it a shot if you need some retro in your shoot-em-up.
--
99 Waves to Die is a twin stick arcade shooter, inspired by the arcade games, and 8-bit home consoles/computers, of the 1980′s. Remember when video games used to be insanely difficult? When you used to spend £’s in the local arcade trying to get the high score? When having your three letter initials/acronym at the top of the table meant you were the king? Well we do, and that is why we have created 99 Waves to Die.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Mystery Castle HD - Episode 1" pname='com.runestonegames.mysterycastle.episode1' video='https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4N8KIoNhSGM']
A mix of old-school dungeon crawlers and puzzle games, Mystery Castle might scratch the itch of any classic Zelda fans out there. The gameplay is pretty basic: don't touch the lava, avoid the bad guys, et cetera. New tools and weapons are gradually introduced, but it looks like the game uses the same basic visual design for every stage. A sequel is clearly in the works, but with just 36 stages for two bucks, it probably should have been included.
--
The award-winning Mystery Castle series has arrived on to Android devices. Join Monty the wizard on his first adventure, as he explores a fortress deep inside a mountain, that is under siege by one of the evil Monster Barons. Monty will have to outwit Fire Golems, watch his step on burning lava, discover magical passageways and push bombs to clear obstacles, as he makes his way deeper into the fortress and the showdown with the mysterious Monster Baron invading the castle. And be careful not to fall into the bottomless abyss.
[/appbrain_app]
[appbrain_app name="Trouserheart" pname='com.the10tons.trouserheart' video='https://youtu.be/upF5c9iSHiU']
We featured Trouserheart a while back when it was an Amazon Appstore exclusive. It's an unapologetic hack and slash dungeon-crawler starring a mobile beard in heart print boxers - what's not to love? The simple but pleasing 3D graphics and timeless gameplay are charming, even if this isn't going to win any awards for originality. The game is a reasonable $3 with no in-app purchases.
--
Trouserheart is all about fun, instantly accessible, pick up and play hack’n’slash gameplay with playful art style and humorous tone. Super fluid controls with options for both fixed and floating modes make the game a joy to play for beginners and veteran gamers alike. The game offers two difficulty levels and even an optional perma-death mode for the bravest of adventurers!
[/appbrain_app]
Know A Worthy New App? Let Us Know!
If you have an application in mind for the next issue of the roundup, feel free to send us an email and let us know.
Important: there are 2 requirements in order for the app to be considered, listed below.
- the app's launch date has to be no longer than 2 weeks ago
- it has to be original, ground-breaking, well-reviewed, interesting, fun, etc - the cream of the crop
Now, if and only if the above requirements have been satisfied, fire up an email to this address: oh.no.its.the@androidpolice.com.
1 sponsored placement per week is available (your app would be featured at the top and marked as sponsored) - please contact us for details.