A look back at some of the highlights from the last week in iOS gaming…
Cut the Rope: Experiments gets its first update
The adorable green monster, also known as ‘Om Nom’, is back in ZeptoLab’s first update for ‘Cut the Rope: Experiments’. Dubbed ‘Rocket Science’, the update adds 25 levels, a ‘rocket’ gameplay element, new audio commentary from the Professor, new achievements and – wait for it – iCloud integration across all devices. This means you won’t have to start again if you re-download the game on another device – hooray!
The update is already live, so if you’ve just upgraded to an iPhone 4S, you might want to update the game on your old device.
CAVE’s ‘Bug Princess’ is coming to iOS
CAVE’s 2004 arcade hit ‘Bug Princess’ is making its way to iOS soon. The guys are also responsible for the famous ‘Mushihimesama Bug Panic’ which was released in November last year, and is a port of the studio’s 2006 hit. Going further back in time, this vertical-scrolling action game promises to light up your screen like no other, as you can see in the trailer below.
Crimson: Steam Pirates released for iPhone; Chapter 3 available now
Bungie and Harebrained Schemes have finally released their popular top-down pirate adventure game ‘Crimson: Steam Pirates’ for iPhone and iPod touch.
Alongside Chapters 1 and 2, containing a total of 16 voyages, the third chapter is available as an in-app purchase for $0.99 and adds another 8 voyages to the game.
If you’re wondering what all the fuss is about, check out the first episode for $0.99.
Dungeon Hunter III is official
After some relatively long speculation, Gameloft has revealed the third instalment to their hit RPG franchise ‘Dungeon Hunter’. The studio haven’t revealed much, other than “better graphics, better gameplay, co-op multiplayer and a whole lot more” – which they said in their latest podcast.
‘Egg Punch’ is a new 3D physics puzzler
Take on the role of a chicken whose feathers have been stolen by annoying rabbits in an upcoming 3D physics puzzler called ‘Egg Punch’. It’s a bit like mini-golf, except you’re trying to smash into half-buried rabbits while scoring points and collecting features in order to progress through the game. The content extends to custom eggshells and game-changing power-ups, all of which can be bought in exchange for coins that you earn as you complete levels. Of course, these are also available as in-app purchases. Pixel Juice will kindly release ‘Egg Punch’ for free on December 1.
‘God of Blades’ gets Kickstarted
Here’s another Kickstarter project, but this time it’s an iOS game called ‘God of Blades’. In development from indie studio White Whale Games, this 2.5D side-scrolling action RPG depicts an epic retro fantasy, sword and sorcery saga. There’ll be a 1970s-style fantasy world where you can experience addictive weapon mechanics, persistent character development and real-world data – which you can find out more on its Kickstarter page. It has a pledge of $4,00, so if the above description whets your whistle, go ahead and donate a few bucks (you’ll even get the game for free).
‘Legendary Outlaw’ is the new gunslinger in town
Texas-based studio Game Tongue Software will soon release a FPS called ‘Legendary Outlaw’. You play the role of an outlaw who will do anything to gain fame and fortune. But you don’t go on a killing spree in every level, but rather use the environment to your stealthy advantage. Creep up on enemies without being seen or heard in 12 different environments with a range of different weapons.
Although the gameplay videos don’t show off much, the developers like to emphasize ‘highly-detailed environments’ and ‘intuitive controls’. Legendary Outlaw is due to hit the App Store soon.
Infinity Blade: Original Soundtrack now available for download
ChAIR have released the original soundtrack to their blockbuster mobile game ‘Infinity Blade’ ahead of the second instalment’s release on December 1st. The soundtrack comes from acclaimed composer Josh Aker and includes 25 tracks, totalling 55 minutes. Early adopters claim there are hints of what we may encounter in Infinity Blade II.
Disney releases ‘Tap Tap Muppets’ for iPhone
You can now tap along to the musical beat of your favourite Muppets, thanks to Disney Mobile. Kermit the Frog, Miss Piggy, Fozzie Bear and the rest of the gang are included in another iteration of the popular ‘Tap Tap’ music franchise. Included are six full tracks with three memorable tunes from the popular compilation, ‘The Green Album’. The studio plan to release three new tracks on November 21 to the public, but they’re available to iOS users in this free download. Go ahead and add ‘Tap Tap Muppets’ to your ‘Tap Tap’ folder on your iOS device now.
NOVA 2 gets Airplay & iCloud support
N.O.V.A. 2 Near Orbit Vanguard Alliance has been updated to include Airplay & iCloud support on the iPad 2. This allows you to experience the action in full screen on your HDTV through your Apple TV. iCloud support also means you can now keep your saved data in the single player campaign when switching between iOS devices.
