A look back at some of the highlights from the last week in iOS gaming…
Gangstar Rio gets a new trailer
Gameloft hasn’t stirred much hype for their next Gangstar game, which is pretty unusual for the publisher given that it’s one of their more successful series. Perhaps other new IPs stole the spotlight? Understandable, but that doesn’t mean Gangstar Rio will be a waste of time. Another trailer was released this week to show off the new gameplay mechanics, a taste of the city and the wide variety of vehicles. After watching it below, and seeing all the tank-blowing action, you’ll want the next few weeks to fly by.
Trenches 2 is coming this winter from EA
ThunderGameWorks have announced the sequel to their much-loved strategy game, ‘Trenches’. After the game took over the App Store two years ago, the developers were loyal with content updates and more, such as the popular online multiplayer mode. There isn’t much to get excited about Trenches 2 as it’s just an announcement, but you can expect there to be ‘more units, a more dynamic battlefield, more game modes’ and a new publisher – EA. Read our hands-on here:
Dungeon Defenders: Second Wave released as a free update
Trendy Entertainment have released Dungeon Defenders: Second Wave as a free update to the first instalment, bringing a load of new features. There’s a brand new control scheme, new menus and special iOS 5 features that make the game more enjoyable to play. Don’t get too excited though, as the main feature is the new PvP Arena Mode which you’ll have to purchase as an IAP. If you’re not sure whether or not this game is worth your time, we should let you know that the PC version ranked in the top 5 on Steam.
Chillingo updates Contre Jour
Critically-acclaimed iPhone and iPad hit ‘Contre Jour’ has received its first update, introducing a brand new ‘Moonlight’ world. You’ll navigate the curious character, Petit, through 20 beautiful environments filled with new physics-based pulleys while avoiding spikey obstacles. This isn’t the only news Chillingo has to shout about this week, as they’ve also announced the release of the official Contre Jour music soundtrack. Composed by David Ari Leon, the soundtrack promises to catch the same incredible atmosphere the game offers.
Spy Mouse updated with 5 new challenges and more content
EA have updated one of their latest App Store offerings with even more content. You can now compare your Spy Mouse high-scores against the world using EA’s social platform Origin, play through 5 new challenges and get bonus ‘Backpack’ content sooner – all you need is one ‘Squeak’ friend.
RPM: Gymkhana Racing to drop November 17th for iOS
Bulkypix and Blue Riversa have announced their plans to release their popular skill racing game ‘RPM: Gymkhana Racing’ to iPhone and iPad later this month. You’ll be able to pull off your best tricks using tight on-screen controls on courses ranging from the streets of New York to the corners of Dubai. A total of 20 stages will be included with Openfeint leaderboards, so you can compare your scores to players from around the world. One of the best features is the recording mode, where you can save your best stunts for viewing later.
Frozen Synapse is coming to the iPad
Having sold over 300,000 units of PC, Mac and Linux, indie developer Mode 7 are bringing their tactical game Frozen Synapse to the iPad in 2012. Not much information has been revealed, unfortunately, but you can expect the same simultaneous-turn-based strategy fun in the tablet counterpart. The game is close to entering bête, and a price and release date will be announced next year.
Exclusive SpellCraft screenshots
Social and mobile role-playing game SpellCraft is on its way to iOS, and TouchGEN has received a few exclusive screenshots. Gamers will play a young apprentice wizard at the multiverse’s most prestigious magical university. You’ll have to save the teachers trapped beneath the school by nursing magical plants, brewing magical spells and battling it out with cunning monsters.
You can also fight your friend asynchronously via Game Center, which the developers like to describe as ‘spellcasting Words With Friends’. Built from the ground up for touchscreen smartphones and tablets, SpellCraft is due to release soon.
Manny Pacquiao Stars in Pound for Pound
Karkadann Games will release Manny Pacquiao: Pound for Pound: Volume 1. It features Filipino athlete and international superstar, Manny Pacquiao. Releasing in November, Pound for Pound is a new action fighting game designed for a broad audience and will be released for $2.99. Pound for Pound sends Manny into the underground fighting pits in search of a kidnapped friend. You’ll execute Manny’s legendary combination of pummeling punches against enemies that stand in his way, in addition to an arsenal of martial arts fighting techniques and combos. Swipe the screen in various directions to unleash and dodge attacks, and defeat an army of minions and bosses. Gain experience that will further your progress in the game, unlocking skill points and item upgrades that will improve Manny’s fighting power and his chance to save his chum.
