The iPad is a surprisingly powerful portable games machine. Whether you want to play casual games or more serious titles, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy when you have some time to kill.
1. Word
Solitaire HD (free)
If you prefer a more sedate and cerebral challenge, Word Solitaire is a good
choice. Like a cross between scrabble and solitaire, Word Solitaire requires
you to form words with the cards available to you. The aim is to uncover and
use all the cards. It’s well paced and there are literally hundreds of
levels to work through so this will keep you occupied for a long time.
2. Fieldrunners
for iPad (£4.99)
One of the best of the so-called ‘tower defence’ genre of games, Fieldrunners
charges you with stopping a series of bad guys from crossing the screen. You
have a variety of weapons at your disposal and need to create mazes and
obstacles in order to succeed. It’s an addictive game that quickly becomes a
real challenge.
3. Plants
vs Zombies HD (£3.99)
The zombie apocalypse has begun and the only thing stopping the undead
reaching your house is your army of deadly plants. Deploy them on your lawn,
in your swimming pool and even on your roof as wave after wave of zombies
attempts to breach your defences. Plants vs Zombies blends great gameplay
with a smart sense of humour.
4. Real
Racing 2 HD (£5.99)
If you want to be amazed by just how much the iPad can deliver, Real Racing 2
HD is an ideal game to check out. This deep and detailed racing game has
brilliant graphics that look even better on the more powerful iPad 2. It’s
not just fun for a quick race - there’s plenty in here to keep you coming
back.
5. Infinity
Blade (£1.79)
Another title that shows off the iPad’s graphics, Infinity Blade looks
astonishing and its gameplay is wonderfully designed for the touchscreen.
It’s a sword fighting game that has you slashing and swiping your fingers
across the screen as you battle your way into a castle.
6. Football
Manager 2011 (£6.99)
For almost 20 years the Football Manager series has obsessed video gamers. The
latest computer version of the game is almost mind-bogglingly detailed but
there’s an awful lot packed into this more casual version too. Recently
upgraded for the iPad’s larger screen, Football Manager 2011 means that your
quest for footballing glory can go on wherever you are. Be warned though:
you could find yourself spending many many hours engrossed in this game.
The best of the rest
Hunters:
Episode One HD (free)
This turn-based strategy game puts you in charge of a team of mercenaries. The
first episode is free and later levels can be purchased within the app.
Scrabble
for iPad (£3.99)
The classic boardgame works just as you’d expect on the iPad. You can even use
an iPhone or an iPod touch as a tile tray.
Let’s
Golf! 2 HD (£2.99)
This cartoony golf game is well made but doesn’t take itself too seriously. It
offers plenty of extras to unlock for completing various tasks.
Atari’s
Greatest Hits (free)
If you remember the early days of gaming then this will take you back. Pong
comes free but other titles have to be bought within the app.
Civilisation
Revolution (£7.49)
Conquer the world in this turn-based strategy game which offers a remarkably
full experience for the iPad.
Sentinel
3 Homeworld (£1.79)
Another tower defence game. This one has you battling aliens with a range of
high-tech weapons.
Osmos
for iPad (£2.99)
A beautiful and believe it or not restful puzzle game in which you control a
floating ball of energy that loses matter as it moves and has to absorb
other balls to grow. Well worth experiencing.