The iOS, as a platform, doesn’t get a lot of respect from gamers. And that is for understandable reasons – the plethora of silly, cute flash-based casual games on iPhone and iPad does make it seem that it has little to offer the serious gamer.
But if you are willing to look a little bit, you will actually find that the iOS platform does offer some pretty deep and rewarding videogame experiences. Here are the Top 5 Games on iOS that have great stories, compelling gameplay and innovative concepts that rival the great titles found on any other platform. If you have an iPhone or iPad, you need to add these ones to your collection.
The Silent Age
This point-and-click puzzle-solving adventure from Indie Danish studio House on Fire has a beautiful visual aesthetic that is minimalist in presentation but rich in vibrant color. That, combined with a lovely soundtrack, makes The Silent Age a game that always feels good to play. Its episodic story is a science-fiction mystery that has elements of time-travel, and will pull you in right from the moment you press start. If you like good writing and dialogue, you will really enjoy The Silent Age. It’s a short ride, but a sweet one that will leave you wanting more.
Papers, Please
Papers, Please, from former Naughty Dog developer Lucas Pope, is about as far away from a “casual game” as you can get. You play the role of an immigration officer in a dystopian country called Arstotzka, and your job is to process the paperwork of people trying to enter the country. The entirely-paperwork-based gameplay might seem like it would be boring on paper (excuse the pun), but in execution it is a compelling experience that is heightened by the deep story that slowly unfolds as you play. Papers, Please will force you to make some tough moral choices as you are pressured by an increasingly draconian government, the pleas of asylum seekers, and the threat of terrorists posing as legitimate immigrants. And your choices matter, too – in fact you will get a number of different endings depending on what calls you decide to make.
Gemini Rue
If you haven’t discovered Gemini Rue yet, you are really missing out. Another point-and-click adventure, it sports amazing retro graphics that are pixelated, yet full of interesting details. Its cyberpunk-inspired story is what sets it apart, though; you will be hooked right away due to its smart narrative design, that always keeps you interested and wanting to read on. Puzzles are satisfying as well, and require you to utilize everything you learn as you play. Yes, the combat is a bit of a weak spot, but overall there is so much game in Gemini Rue, you owe it to yourself to check it out.
Click on thru to Page 2 for the top 2 iOS games for serious gamers.