This unique aural-adventure-horror hybrid mash of genre and media does ask for a committed investment from the player, but if you’re game, you’ll be rewarded. Kudos to Somethin’ Else for trying something so cool! [Issue 1, February 2014]

Table Touch Tennis mixes sports-sim realism with arcade escapism and stunning visuals to create a near-perfect storm of challenge and fun. Yakuto’s love for the sport is obvious and it results in an accessible yet deep game that even has a sense of humour. [Episode 5, June 2014]

The way Simogo weaves the player and Anna into the same mystery is fascinating. It might not be for everyone, but the richly complex puzzles and intriguing neo-noir mystery are sure to make Device 6 a cult hit. [Issue 0, January 2014]

Even if it does rely a little on what’s proven to be popular amongst fans (name a franchise that isn’t guilty of that), there is still so much that is fresh and unconventional for both Telltale and the Borderlands universe, it helps Tales From The Borderlands stand on its own two feet as a thrilling and chuckle inducing experience.

A truly beautiful gaming experience perfectly suited to touchscreens. I love how its level design constantly rewards you, letting you in on illusion’s secrets. I just wish it didn’t have to end so soon – a criticism one only cares acknowledge on a quality game. [Episode 3, April 2014]

This magical take on a miniscule ecosystem will draw out even the most hidden inner child. Amanita Design and band DVA have collaborated to create a masterpiece of sound and light that speaks to the player in a language of playful, yet deeply meaningful symbology. [Episode 5, June 2014]

Battleheart Legacy is a grind tempered by a world that’s a pleasure to inhabit, and combat and progression systems that gradually reveal layers of strategy and possibility. Even though I disagree with some of its design decisions, I will keep playing it for some time to come. [Episode 7, September 2014]

When I had finished with Thomas was Alone, I wanted more. I wanted the story to go on forever. I’m sure, even as a baby, I have never cared as much for a set of blocks as I did here. It’s a case study on how grand ideas and important themes can be carried by even the simplest of designs when its heart is in the right place.

Even in the relative infancy of the digital gamebook/choose-your-own adventure genre, 80 Days stands out as a pleasant oddity. I never would have imagined that a classic novel such as Around The World in 80 Days would be turned into an interactive experience. But I'm glad inkle did and the studio deserves high praise for creating an accessible and, ultimately, fun way for people to experience Verne’s classic work.

A great game only let down by its inability to encourage replayability. If you’re up for a puzzle experience that goes bump in the night, you should definitely pick it up. Well done to Fireproof for satisfying its fans’ anticipation. [Issue 1, February 2014]

The game is endearing in its simplicity, and despite the limited gameplay it fits snugly into that folder of games that can be relied on to eat up idle minutes at any time. It won’t be for everyone, but those who tend to get enchanted by good things in small packages will adore it. [Episode 7, September 2014]

Hoplite proudly flies its roguelike colours. Permadeath, turn-based combat and punishing difficulty await those game enough to plunder the dungeons’ depths in search of the Golden Fleece. The punishing, and often frustrating, difficulty of Hoplite is balanced by short, quick levels and an addictiveness that only comes from a desire to not let the game get the best of you.

Wayward Souls blend of action and mystery is a compelling mix that instils a sense of determined curiosity every time I pick it up for another round of dungeon crawling. Players that enjoy RPGs and action games will find the challenge, tactical depth and intrigue-laden plot and characters highly rewarding, however a measure of patience is recommended.

This is a beautifully detailed and nuanced strategy game, made with so much love that I foresee players using it as a landmark title to define how deep, full and complete iOS strategy games can be. [Issue 1, February 2014]

A long and enjoyable experience that launches a promising new series while raising the bar for 3D adventure games on iOS. It might be overly nostalgic, but Oceanhorn still provides some of the richest gaming to be found on the App Store. [Issue 1, February 2014]

Mines of Mars is in truth a simple platformer with basic mining and crafting mechanics. However, the story, wonderful atmosphere and genuine surprises suck you in. Before you know it, you’re role-playing well beyond the facade of a simple 2D platformer. [Episode 3, April 2014]

More than any other version of Magic, Origins welcomes newcomers with open arms. But this is still the game that die hard veterans have come to know and love, offering strategic depth that will please for a long time to come. Truly, Origins is the definitive digital version of magic to own.

Stick through the early levels and the game’s variety and complexity really opens up thanks to its colourful environments and puzzles. Injecting just enough of its own unique twists to genre conventions, Leo’s Fortune is a finely-tuned and thoughtfully crafted platformer. [Episode 5, June 2014]

A great example of how the infectious indie scene is facilitating a gaming revolution. So much more than forgettable, popcorn entertainment, it manages to be a deep and enriching without sacrificing fun. [Issue 0, January 2014]

By mixing plenty of laughs into its RTS, RPG and tower defence hybrid of gameplay, SMG Studio has created a polished strategy gem. It’s well and truly worth its reasonable price and is only let down by some minor issues regarding framerate and player control options. [Episode 5, June 2014]

There is so much potential fun to be had here with daily challenges, cool power-ups and cosmetic features to unlock, that I feel it would actually benefit from sacrificing some of its difficulty to allow players a little more time to enjoy what’s on offer. [Episode 6, July 2014]

SMG Studio knows how to craft a game that digs its claws into you and refuses to let go. Although One More Dash isn’t drastically different from One More Line, it does enough to feel fresh and still manages to retain that compulsive feeling that will have you screaming ‘just one more dash!'

Bardbarian is one of the most cheerful and engaging games I’ve played in a while. Even after dying repeatedly, it didn’t blunt my enthusiasm and desire to master the game. Its merging of tower defence strategy with RPG-like elements is a fun combination. [Episode 4, April 2014]

Fates Forever is the fully-fledged MOBA experience we’ve come to love, but mobile. If you’re looking for something to sink your teeth into, it’s a heck of a lot deeper than the typical pick-up-put-down experiences that litter the App Store. [Episode 7, September 2014]

Philipp Stollenmayer has something he’d like to discuss with you and thankfully, he has done so in the form of an easily accessible video game. While it could have done more with its gameplay, it remains an intelligent, creative puzzle platformer well worth a try. [Episode 4, April 2014]

Kumobius has tapped into something special with Duet. Underneath the minimal exterior is a game that’s complex, challenging and wonderfully rewarding. A must have for anyone looking to broaden their iOS horizons. [Issue 1, February 2014]

CLARC shapes up as a great foundation for first-time iOS developer Golden Tricycle. Its core concept is simple, but when coupled with striking visuals, odd characters and wonderfully crafted puzzles, CLARC positions itself as a great base to build a library of memorable iOS titles around. [Episode 6, July 2014]

Fans of endless runners will feel right at home here. There’s a slight sense of repetition, but the surreal art direction and high intensity gameplay provides a good level of difficulty, which helps Boson X stand out.

Ossian Studios has created a world that feels like it has always been there, with its lore and world constructed with love. Add exciting combat and hours of quests, and The Shadow Sun is a genuine iOS RPG classic. [Issue 1, February 2014]

Toast Time is a charming, imaginative, challenging slice of retro action. I wouldn’t be at all surprised to see Force of Habit’s iOS debut become a cult favourite.

I can guarantee you that once you’ve played through Icycle: On Thin Ice, you’ll be jumping at the opportunity to share your experience with friends. It’s a must-play video game that’s worth every single one of its 99 cents. [Issue 1, February 2014]

Despite occasional frustrations, Castle of Illusion is a fun and visually impressive rework of a true classic. I just couldn’t shake the feeling that I’d played this experience in too many different guises over the years to fully enjoy it.

Hitman GO is a really great example of what a seasoned developer like Square Enix can do to reinvent an established franchise for a new platform. Rather than shoe-horn some clumsy 3D world onto a screen the size of a deck of cards, Square Enix took the clever route and crafted a unique Hitman experience built on the strengths of iOS.

Shadow Blade is a competent and accessible platforming experience that offers a little bit for everyone. The ninja theme is used well, with gorgeous visuals and a solid soundtrack, but skilled gamers will want to battle through to the later stages. [Issue 1, February 2014]

Mines of Mars is in truth a simple platformer with basic mining and crafting mechanics. However, the story, wonderful atmosphere and genuine surprises suck you in. Before you know it, you’re role-playing well beyond the facade of a simple 2D platformer. [Episode 3, April 2014]

Too often my victories felt like strokes of luck instead of skilled management. Yet there is an obvious heart to Armstrong’s David that carries it over the line, delivering a beautifully depicted and high-concept arcade experience that you can enjoy for free. [Episode 6, July 2014]

Modern Combat 5 has the chops to go toe-to-toe with any big budget FPS. Well implemented touch control assists, deep customisation and heart-pumping action set Modern Combat 5 into the elite company of the best first-person shooters on iPad. [Episode 7, September 2014]

I can’t see Dudeski setting the iOS world on fire, but it does provide enough warmth to make it worth stopping by for a pleasant downhill session every now and then. [Episode 4, April 2014]

For a first outing, Satellina is an incredibly solid effort from developer Moon Kid. It’s a game that has the potential to appeal to a wide audience and one that could easily eat up a large portion of your time if you do get sucked into competing with other people via the leaderboards.

First Strike is an exceptionally well-presented real-time strategy game only marred by a weak tutorial and a tendency for over micromanagement. I enjoyed the surprising depth in its gameplay and its message for humankind, which will linger with you well after you’ve fired off your last missile. [Episode 6, July 2014]

There may be two Acts remaining, but Lone Wolf: Blood on the Snow is already one of the best gamebook adventures on the market. Forge Reply has achieved the perfect balance of an old-school gamebook feel while breathing new-life into an otherwise aging genre. [Episode 5, June 2014]

It’s not without room for improvement, but this is a genuine iteration of the digital Magic: The Gathering experience. The effort that has gone into bringing the game closer to the beloved real-world duelling pays-off, delivering far greater strategic depth and universe engagement. [Episode 6, July 2014]

Adding light RPG mechanics and a medieval setting to Ravenous Games’ tight control scheme and penchant for retro visuals makes for a great gaming experience.

Unpossible is a fantastic piece of bite-sized puzzle action that will have you glued to your screen fighting the need to blink. It could have more levels, but you’re not likely to get through the half a dozen or so on offer anytime soon. [Episode 5, June 2014]

Lastronaut won’t gain points for originality, but the end package has all its disparate influences tied together so charmingly, it's a compliment to this auto-running love-letter, and Henein and Leroux should be proud of their accomplishment.

Fiz is worth a look for both beer lovers and players after a fun management game. After all, there’s a pixelated universe of thirsty people out there: it’s your duty to ensure they are well hydrated with the yeasty elixir of kings. [Issue 1, February 2014]

This cheerfully harmless platforming shooter is so much fun it actually hurts your sides. [Episode 4, April 2014]

Yet I remain super impressed with Blowfish Meets Meteor. The instantly likeable visuals and unique presentation are evidence of a game given lots of love. Furthermore, there is a true sense of satisfaction at beating some of the trickier levels and bosses.

Trouserheart doesn’t try and bring anything new to the action-adventure table, and that’s ok. Dicework Games has crafted a simple and incredibly fun experience that’ll charm the pants off you. [Issue 0, January 2014]

As an exercise in getting a big console game working on a touchscreen, République is a stunning success that delivers on story and gameplay. I was left desperately wanting more, which can only be a good thing for this episodic venture. [Issue 1, February 2014]

Only One is a fantastic arcade title on iOS that’s easy to pick up and hard to put down. It may not be the biggest thing to hit the App Store, but its charming pixelated graphics and diabolically tuned gameplay will see you striving for that next high score. [Episode 3, April 2014]

Broken Age is yet another piece of evidence that the vibrant screens and touch interfaces of the iPad were made to showcase the point-and-click genre. Tim Schafer’s return to the genre he once commanded is well worth playing, as long as you can cop the break between acts. [Episode 6, July 2014]

This main mechanic alone results in some wonderful gameplay, but it’s packaged with such highly polished production values and gorgeous cartoony visuals, that it would be a shame if Mighty Adventure flew under the radar. [Episode 7, September 2014]

Prime World: Defenders is one of the most well-rounded and fun tower defence titles available on the App Store. Not only has Nival nailed the basics of what we have come to expect from the genre’s best, but it goes a step further by introducing new, meaningful and fun mechanics. [Episode 6, July 2014]

When you can and can't swipe isn't really explained either. I learnt purely through some frustrating trial and error that you can swipe horizontally during a vertical dash, but not vertically mid-horizontal dash. Asides from these minor issues, Duke Dashington is a pithy if busy puzzler that will leave you wanting more. I finished the four temples in just over an hour, which for a game where each level lasts no more than ten seconds, means a whole lot of gameplay in such a tiny package.

I’m not sure if Instantion was already well into development when The Swapper came out or not, but its interesting premise is weakened by the fact the idea has already been done, and more effectively (albeit on other platforms), too. It makes Instantion a hard sell. It delivers on enough of what it sets out to do to provide some mild entertainment, but if I did have an army of clones at my dispersal, I might choose to cook dinner and hand Instantion over to one of them.

For a mobile title the visuals are quite stunning, on par with some console and PC games that I’ve come across. Each dungeon is intricately detailed with macabre little items, like blood splatter, skeletons twisted in agony and grotesque monsters. It makes me all the more sadder that we may never see more of this twisted universe given that Techland has shelved plans for the console experience.

A core philosophy of Tin Man Games is to give nostalgic readers of choose-your-own adventure novels something new and fresh, and to bring an exciting experience to those unfamiliar with the genre. On all fronts, Tin Man Games has knocked this one out of the park.

In this 2¼D world, Not a Hero is largely successful in imitating the frenetic action of Devolver’s other gore-fest Hotline Miami. It also plays very similarly to the aforementioned Broforce, letting you have your twisted, violent fun in the first few levels as you blast your way through the enemies with as little restraint as you desire.

A puzzle game that has none of the frustrations or pressure that some releases in this genre can bring. Relaxing throughout, I love how it allows you to play at your own pace, and soak in the ambiance of its soft neon visuals and chic sonic wallpapers by UNKLE. [Episode 3, April 2014]

Biosis is a challenging platformer and one that will connect with your emotions, delivering a heart-warming adventure that unfolds in a beautiful, yet frightening alien world. Charming if just a tad frustrating, it is definitely worth adding to your video game collection. [Episode 6, July 2014]

A solid game that offers plenty of fun while making the most of what iOS has to offer. A sharp difficulty spike and the lure of in-game purchases puts only a small dent in this ambitious and largely successful offering. [Issue 1, February 2014]

With so many tracks and cars to unlock, times to beat and a tough AI, Rail Racing is hard to put down and even harder to master. It’s the many near-wins that keep you coming back, driving you to learn the skills needed to beat this deceptively toyish racer. [Issue 1, February 2014]

Lex is still a wonderful mobile game, with sound and art design tailored perfectly to the gameplay. There’s no need to have a dictionary for a brain to succeed and it is incredibly easy to just keep on playing. Your game can be a thirty second failure or a three minute display of genius, but no matter the speed of your fingers and the reflexes of your brain, your eyes will be glued to the screen.

Nostalgia and modern technology collide to create a fine example of iOS platforming. Tight controls, classic Game Boy visuals and plenty of collectible treats give gamers plenty of bang for their buck, and without getting a single saddle sore. Giddy-up! [Episode 5, June 2014]

Dandelions is a welcome change of pace and a deeply satisfying experience. It’s obvious that developer Thumbr gets the fact we live in an incredibly time poor, always on the go society. The resulting experience is a simplified, streamlined and humble title that will challenge you to stop and smell the flowers, rather than bustle on by them. [Episode 3, April 2014]

An impressive debut from developer Flat Earth Games, TownCraft is a robust package that will have you happily sinking countless hours into building your own world without ever realising it.

The beauty of Shapist rests in its simplicity, with the interface stripped back to its barest essentials. There are no time limits or scores: not even any words or a tutorial. I found it incredibly cathartic to just sit back and solve a bunch of puzzles without any expectations placed on me. [Episode 4, April 2014]

Revolution 60 is a difficult title to recommend if you’re after tight and interesting gameplay. Although the idea behind the game is fantastic, unfortunately the execution leaves a lot to be desired. [Episode 7, September 2014]

The touchscreen feels like the perfect home for Kahuna, but developer USM definitely needs to address the cracks in its foundations before it’s too late and the walls come crumbling down.

Super Secret Service’s impressive visuals and catchy melodies set the stage for a simple and increasingly frenetic passion project that harkens back to the simpler days of gaming.

With an intuitive interface, a thoughtful premise and engaging gameplay, Magnetized is about as close to iOS perfection as you can get. [Issue 1, February 2014]

Tormentum - Dark Sorrow is a light in the darkness - or is that the other way around? You'll be hard pressed to find a game as stunningly dark as this. If you think you can deal with the incredibly dark themes and art style, you'll be well rewarded with an intriguing story set in a surreal word even H.R. Giger would be proud to call his own.

I enjoyed the game enough to warrant the purchase of a few booster packs (thankfully I managed to keep it at a few). I’m sure that if you spent enough money, your people could live like royalty in a safeguarded oasis, away from all the ghouls, raiders and rad-roaches. But, then what? It becomes a base-building sim just like any other.

Soon we will no longer be amazed that games can offer us this sort of deeper, artful experience. They will just be there and will not require preamble. Continue?9876543210 is another glimmering beacon guiding us towards that future. [Issue 1, February 2014]

Rival Games has kicked off The Detail with an unforgettable first episode, setting a very high bar for itself. With so many different story threads started, the challenge will be to weave those threads together into a rich and satisfying tapestry that involves the player. And this is all while seeking to recapture that explosive opening where the player is pushed to look within themselves without necessarily finding a “right” answer.

Across Age 2 acts as a nice bridge for gamers wanting to dabble in old-school JRPG gaming without tackling old-dated mechanics, but the likeable characters and fun party mechanic can’t gloss over some of the slumps in engagement. [Issue 1, February 2014]

The shadowy art style and haunting soundtrack will pull at your heartstrings as damaged toys burst back to life, but a few practical problems cause Lost Toys to fall short of its potential and the standard set by the likes of The Room. [Issue 1, February 2014]

There’s loads of unlockables and a nice little nod to Canabalt (look out for the birds), ensuring Bill Killem remains a fine quick fix experience for those gamers who view Duke Nukem as a class act. [Episode 5, June 2014]

Yes, I have had some issues with Ronin, but I’ve still had fun. Enjoyable and frustrating this game may be, when all is said and done, there isn’t anything quite as satisfying as surprise tossing a thug out of a tenth story window and watching him sail into the darkness.

Developer SomaSim has admirably balanced fun and strategy in this great city builder set against the rich backdrop of the Old West. It’s a shame that the cities feel so similar to each other and the surrounding environments so bland, as otherwise it’s immensely enjoyable. [Episode 5, June 2014]

Oscura’s return to touchscreens is a success thanks to its challenging platforming, dark gothic aesthetic and controls, which can’t be blamed for your deaths and instead allow you to game with confidence. Oscura: Second Shadow should jag platforming fans on its tough, pointy edges. [Episode 6, July 2014]

One crazy trip through the cosmos with Cubus Games was enough to sell me on this magnificent gamebook adventure and Heavy Metal Thunder will satisfy sci-fi and RPG fans alike.

The game’s total length of twelve levels feels like a fair proposition for the money you’ll spend, and there is not an IAP in sight. Had the game gone on for longer, I would have really needed more variety to hold my interest - as it stands, Ammo Pigs only just outstays its welcome.

Rovio deserves kudos for bashing down the casual wall and inviting RPG and Angry Birds fans alike into the same space without alienating either camp. This is a polished, fun, long and satisfying experience that resists the temptation to sling IAPs at your face.

Tiny Death Star doesn’t radically shake up the excellent formula of Tiny Tower. If you’re not a Star Wars buff, the shallow management experience won’t keep you interested for long. But for Star Wars aficionados, the wonderful fan service makes it a no brainer. [Issue 1, February 2014]

A game so enchanting you’ll curse the fact it has to end. I thought the best way to sum up Tengami is via a haiku poem: Journey through paper; Origami zen garden; A brief distraction. [Episode 3, April 2014]

Doggins is one of those games that should be loaded onto every iPad. It is a wonderfully charming, humorous and casual adventure that is unfortunately cut short in its prime. You won't regret your time with it all the same, and I sure hope Brain & Brain rewards fans with another chapter or three.

It’s not a new concept by any stretch, but much like NimbleBit’s Tiny Death Star, Assault Team feels like an authentic Star Wars experience. Hearing Chewbacca’s roar, R2D2’s squeaks and Han’s cynical quips gave me a great sense of satisfaction. Plus I found myself pushing on and playing for just that little while longer for the simple joy of seeing which of the series’ many classic characters I’d pick up next. [Episode 4, April 2014]

Boom Beach is an excellent follow up to Supercell’s hugely successful Clash of Clans and is at its best when you’re up against other human players - their constantly evolving strategies create uncertainty around every beachhead. The IAPs border on intrusive, but do not ultimately bring down a game that is otherwise thoroughly engaging and addictive.

Playing more like snooker on acid than soccer, it’s a fun little distraction, albeit a non-essential one. It really does feel like something brainstormed at a Game Jam, polished for a week or so and (kind of) thrown onto the App Store. [Episode 5, June 2014]

Aside from a few minor frustrations, White Night as a whole should be considered a success. The narrative answers just about every question you could possibly have about the story - even the ones you may not have considered, such as "why are there so many matches lying around this forsaken mansion?" And, though the game’s graphical merits may not sell copies, it is for me, as good a reason as any to jump in and experience this Hitchcockian adventure.

It's evident that Gameloft has in its ranks the talent necessary to craft an epic, rich action-RPG - and I'd dearly like to see the development team do just that - but DH5 is not that game. There's certainly excellent examples of those on iOS, and players after such adventures would do well to grab Iesabel or Battleheart Legacy and forget this title.

Industrial Toys has achieved what it set out to do. It's created a mobile FPS that not only works, but one that offers an enjoyable challenge, a fleshed out comic book infused sci-fi universe, and enough player rivalry to keep you coming back for more. And although this fantastic shooter will be tarnished with the unattractive elements that the free-to-play model brings with it, I’ll undoubtedly be plugging away on the leaderboards with my standard issue arsenal for some time to come.

The love for the source material and attention to the finest of details makes Ascent a natural extension to the Game of Thrones universe. I wasn’t happy with the IAP structure, but remain thankful for the chance to forge my own path through Westeros. [Episode 4, April 2014]

This is an excellent game for a quick fix during an ad break, although don’t be surprised if it sinks its hooks into you for longer stints. Be careful too – you may actually learn something useful about science! [Issue 1, February 2014]

Archangel brings some fresh ideas to the well-worn action-RPG genre, enabling it to mark out some territory all of its own while remaining good fun. Black Tower Studios should be commended for taking a risk and trying something new.

Glowforth has kept things tight and focused in this delightful, atmospheric platformer and it works to the game’s strengths. A super polished journey into an Inuit folktale that plays as good as it looks and sounds even better. Highly recommended. [Episode 4, April 2014]