iOS Gaming Update 23 June 2011

We have saved up another big pile of new games and updates for you iOS gaming junkies. We start it out with a game that we will be reviewing here shortly, Ionocraft Racing and will move on GDN iOS Gaming update from there (other iOS reviews in the works include: Virossassin, Treasure Seeker 2, Breitling).

Customizable Steampunk Racing Comes to iOS Devices in Ionocraft Racing

PAN Vision and Fabrication Games today announced the launch of Ionocraft Racing, a new racing game available on iOS devices in which players can build and race their own custom steampunk speeders. Race through realistic industrial environments at breakneck speeds, earning in-game money to customize and upgrade your speeder with new parts. Fine-tune your speeder’s loadout to the requirements of each course and race against Game Center friends for high score bragging rights, complete with unlockable achievements. Ionocraft Racing is available now for download from the App Store for $1.99 on the iPhone and iPod Touch and $3.99 on the iPad.

Ionocraft Racing highlights include:

• Single-player racer with steampunk stylings, allowing players to build and customize their own speeder creations, reach unhealthy speeds, and risk spectacular crashes.

• Simple touch joystick gameplay for racing through vivid and highly realistic industrial environments including underground sewers and vast factory blocks.

• Customize your own speeder using – from basic parts like body and thrusters to add-ons and upgrades like armor, boosters, and stabilizers - using money and medals earned in-game.

• Compare times with the best in the world and compete for bragging rights with your friends by sharing your progress and achievements on the Apple Game Center.

Download now and start tricking out your own custom speeder in Ionocraft Racing, available on the iTunes App Store now.

To download the iPhone and iPod Touch version, please visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ionocraft-racing/id428222704

The iPad version can be downloaded at: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/ionocraft-racing-hd/id441454840

Wizard’s Castle 1.0 for iPhone 4 - Match and Remove Game for All Ages

Asgard Studios today introduces Wizard’s Castle 1.0 for iPhone 4, their match and remove game for all ages. The player enters the castle to find that the friendly Wizard has cast a spell and colored, magic balls are raining down from the ceiling. Players match and remove balls by touching groups of two or more balls of the same color, and try to prevent the room from filling up with balls in each three minute round. The Game features eight levels and Game Center leaderboards and achievements.

Feature Highlights:
* Extremely challenging but simple game for players of all ages
* Use up to 10 fingers to touch groups of identically colored magic balls
* Touching groups of two or more balls of the same color removes them
* Prevent the room from filling up with magic balls for a full three minutes to move to the next level
* Magic gems also may fall from the ceiling
* Magic gems can have extraordinary powers that may help or harm players
* Every game is different, as balls fall in a random way from the ceiling
* Retina display support

Device Requirements:
* Compatible with iPhone 4, iPod touch (4th generation), and iPad 2
* iOS 4.2 or later
* 33 MB

Pricing and Availability:
Wizard’s Castle 1.0 is $0.99 (USD) and available worldwide through the App Store in the Games category. Wizard’s Castle 1.0 HD for iPad is $0.99 (USD) and available worldwide through the App Store in the Games category. Review copies are available upon request.

Wizard’s Castle 1.0: http://www.asgardstudios.com/
Purchase and Download: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/wizards-castle/id438035075?mt=8

Take aim at the next classic mobile shooter with Online Sniper League

New Jersey based Code Hero Games today announces the release of Online Sniper League for the iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch. This arcade style shooting game throws players behind the scope, challenging them to eliminate enemy agents from afar as quickly and accurately as they can. Shot for shot, Online Sniper League blends strategic gameplay, classic sniping game dynamics, and a unique cartoon aesthetic to deliver a truly enthralling mobile gaming experience to iOS users.

Device Requirements:
* iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad
* Requires iPhone OS 3.1.2 or later
* 14.7 MB

Pricing and Availability:
Online Sniper League 1.0 is only $0.99 USD (or equivalent amount in other currencies) and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Games category.

Online Sniper League 1.0: http://codeherogames.com/osl/
Purchase and Download: http://itunes.apple.com/app/id419812538

Viqua Games releases UltraDeep Plus! for iPhone and iPod touch

Viqua Games today announces UltraDeep Plus! the first major update to its UltraDeep series for iOS. UltraDeep is an addictive tilt-action game. You must avoid obstacles, collect diamonds, and unlock super powers to blast through platforms at amazing speeds. This update adds major improvements including Retina graphics, additional unlockable characters and new powerups and obstacles. UltraDeep features awesome superpowers to upgrade to as well as three unlockable characters and more.

Feature Highlights:
* Ultra-crisp Retina graphics for iPhone 4 devices
* Three unlockable characters to play with
* Awesome superpowers to upgrade and unleash
* Brand-new continue system gives players another chance to go deeper
* Procedurally generated levels: no two playthroughs are the same
* Post your high scores to Twitter and Facebook

Device Requirements:
* iPhone 3G or better, iPod touch 2G or better
* Requires iOS 3.0 or higher
* 30.6 MB

Pricing and Availability:
UltraDeep Plus! is available now for $0.99 (USD) on the App Store, in the Action and Adventure Game categories. Promotional codes are available to reviewers upon request.

Viqua Games: http://www.viquagames.com/
UltraDeep 2.0.1: http://iphone.viquagames.com/games/ultra-deep
Purchase and Download: http://itunes.apple.com/app/id379397835

TAKE TO THE SKIES WITH BREITLING RENO AIR RACES ON iOS

Breitling, one of the major sponsors of National Championship Air Races in Reno and a manufacturer of several high-tech watches, has announced the availability of a FREE flight-oriented game for iPad and iPhone devices called Breitling Reno Air Races. Based on a real life racing event that is set to take place from September 14-18 in Reno, Nevada this year, Breitling Reno Air Races puts players right into the thick of the action. The game gives you the option to take the helm of an airplane of your choice, flying through various courses and challenging your friends through the awesome multiplayer component, proving that you are indeed one of the best pilots out there. Features: - Epic race of rare intensity - Graphics with full 3D breathe taking - A faithful restitution of the field and of the Reno circuits - Gyroscopic controls and tactile controls optimized - 3 game modes: Quick Play, Air Race, Multiplayer - A multiplayer game mode up to 8 players in WiFi and 3G - Many categories of planes and circuits - Customizable planes: name, style et colors - A tutorial to learn how to pilot in race - Game compatible with Openfeint and Game center Moreover, the game will work hand in hand with online social networks, with the ability to share race results with friends, while also making new ones.

Blue Giant Announced for iPhone and iPod Touch

ndependent developer, Peter Levine, announces today his latest iPhone game, Blue Giant. Blue Giant is an intergalactic arcade game. Blue Giant will be released on Apple’s App Store on June 24, 2011 at a price of $0.99.

Travel the universe as one of the illustrious and beautiful blue giants in the sky. Use planetary defenses to safely maneuver through the galaxy and perhaps have a little fun doing it.

Peruse the beautiful nebulas, solar system neighbors and other stars as the blue giant makes it’s way through cosmos.

Unlike what some may say about crystalized carbon objects, however, nothing lasts forever. Make the blue giant’s journey last as long as possible in this beautiful universe we all call home.

Navigating its way through your edge of that galaxy tilting the device up and down. Using its planetary defenses to destroy any objects in your way by touching and holding in the area to fire. Travel through three never-ending sections of the universe building up on a leader-board for each. Score 17 achievements by making sure the path is clear for this solar system.

GeoSphere 1.2 for iPhone - New Challenge in 3D for Hardcore Gamers

PG2 Entertainment today released GeoSphere 1.2 for iPhone, iPod touch and iPad users. The game app, which is controlled by accelerometer and directional pad, provides new, 3D challenge on an artificial, geometric planet that even hardcore gamers will find thrilling in their attempt to conquer a variety of charging enemies. GeoSphere provides players with a selection of weapons and sub weapons to do battle with and allows them to submit their scores to the global leaderboard.

These are some of the features in GeoSphere:
* Simple and intuitive interface and gameplay
* 3D unique and cool graphics.
* 12 different types of attacking enemies
* Select from 3 different main weapons and 3 different sub weapons
* Accelerometer movement and gameplay control
* Directional pad for direction and shooting
* Auto calibration
* Global high scores
* OpenGL and OpenAL
* Addictive, fun, and exciting!

The 1.2 version update of GeoSphere incorporates OpenGL and OpenAL. Players can now submit their game scores to the global leaderboard, for comparing their skill with others around the world.

Device Requirements:
* 3G iPhone, 2nd Gen. iPod touch and iPad
* Requires iOS 4.2 or later
* 5.4 MB

Pricing and Availability
GeoSphere 1.2 is only $0.99 (USD) and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Games category. Promo codes are available for qualified reviewers. Please specify the website or blog you represent when making your request.

GeoSphere 1.2: http://www.pg2e.net/GeoSphere/index.html
Purchase and Download: http://itunes.apple.com/app/geosphere/id438039970#

Just Released: Avadon HD - Indie Fantasy Role-Playing For the iPad

Seattle based Spiderweb Software, Inc. today introduces Avadon: The Black Fortress HD 1.0, their first indie fantasy role-playing game for the iPad. Avadon: The Black Fortress HD is an epic adventure in a strange and dangerous world. You are a spy and warrior, tasked to fight the enemies of your homeland. As a servant of the Black Fortress, your word is law. Gain power and influence, experience an exciting adventure, and battle a conspiracy to destroy your people.
Device Requirements:
* Compatible with iPad
* Requires iOS 4.2 or later
* 106 MB

Pricing and Availability:
Avadon: The Black Fortress HD 1.0 is $9.99 USD (or equivalent amount in other currencies) and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Games category.

Spiderweb Software: http://www.spiderwebsoftware.com/
Avadon: The Black Fortress HD 1.0: http://www.spiderwebsoftware.com/avadon/index.html
Purchase and Download: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/avadon-the-black-fortress-hd/id429761869?mt=8&ign-mpt=uo=2

Kard Combat Battles its Way to the App Store

Hothead Games today announced Kard Combat, a single and multiplayer strategy card game for iPhone and iPad, available to download for free and coming soon to the App Store. In Kard Combat, players choose their destiny by selecting a mage and participating in an ancient tournament of cards and magic. Kard Combat features:

A 33 battle campaign with unique challenges and collectible items
Free online Multiplayer mode to battle friends and foes
Single Duel mode to sharpen your skills
Over 100 incredible, hand-drawn cards to collect and cast in battle
Four unique mages to master, each with their own strengths and abilities
OpenFeint and Game Center enabled

RumdeeDum Announces Relaunch of Princess Arabella Wants to Play for iPad and iPhone

RumdeeDum today announced the relaunch of Princess Arabella Wants to Play, the popular storybook App for children. The new version includes fun animations and sounds on every page, improved navigation and the ability to choose from up to four languages on the menu screen. The updated Princess Arabella is available for download on the App store for the iPad and iPhone.Features:

Pre-recorded storyteller lets children follow along with a professional narration
Young readers can discover colorful pictures, fun animations and exciting sounds
Parents or children can use the text to narrate the story themselves
iPhone App is available in Dutch/English, French/English and German/English versions
iPad version provides audio and text in English, Dutch, French and German

To purchase the iPhone app, please visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/princess-arabella-wants-to/id380484802?mt=8.

To purchase the iPad app, please visit: http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/princess-arabella-wants-to/id380655405?mt=8.

Indie Hit Game Swords & Soldiers arriving soon on the App Store!

Dutch game development armies Two Tribes and Ronimo Games partner with leading independent publisher Chillingo, a divison of EA, to bring highly acclaimed indie hit Swords & Soldiers to the App Store.

This summer iPhone and iPad gamers will be able to command armies of brutal Vikings, vicious Aztecs and devious Chinese, each with their own hilarious storylines. Gamers will go on a globe-trotting single player campaign and unlock addictive high score bonus games! On iPad, gamers can even hone their skills and go up against friends and family with the game’s fully featured multiplayer mode.Key features

Hilarious characters and storyline mean you’ll be playing with one huge grin
Command hordes of Vikings, Aztecs and Chinese warriors, each with their own unique skills
Three epic campaigns with unique challenges to keep you entertained for hours
Fully customizable Skirmish mode means endless replayability
Stunning HD graphics

Swords & Soldiers will be arriving soon on the App Store, details will be revealed in the coming weeks through the Two Tribes website.

Physical Game Gaston 2 hits the App Store with Major Update

The physical puzzle game Gaston 2 - Knock’Em Down, hits the App Store with a major update. Gaston 2 - Knock’em Down reinvents the concept of the traditional can knockdown game with a new addictive and original gameplay, including a lot of levels and an great replay value. Fun and addiction are the main target of Gaston 2 - Knock’em down. The major update have a new revisited physical engine with a new amazing sounds environment. This new version also adds a Pack 2 with 50 new levels.

New Features in the version 1.1:
* 50 new amazing levels ( 158 Levels )
* New dynamic physics engine
* Ambient sound improved
* New realistic shading
* Added a tutorial
* Three new explosive elements
* New GUI
* Improved many levels
* 6 new background
* Bug Game Center
* Mode Left / Right-handed in the options
* Ability to reset the game
* Ability to listen to iTunes music
* Fixed some bugs

Device Requirements:
* iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad
* Requires iPhone OS 4.2 or later
* 21.2 MB

Pricing and Availability:
Gaston #2 v1.1.0 is only $0.99 USD (or equivalent amount in other currencies) and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Games category.

Vetasoft: http://www.vetasoft.com
Gaston #2 v1.1.0: http://www.gastonlagaffe.com
Purchase and Download: http://itunes.apple.com/app/id431829711

Help the Tortoise Conquer the Evil Eagle and Save His Children with Zuma

Oye Faction today announces the release of Zuma Seasons 1.0.1, an exciting new web game for iOS. The game invites players into a feud between a ferocious, child-eating eagle and a heroic and fatherly eagle who only wants to save his children from the evil eagle who kidnapped them. Players are taken on a colorful and fun visual and auditory journey and must face a wide range of obstacles throughout four major levels of play, which are divided into seasons.

Device Requirements:
* iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad
* Requires iPhone OS 3.2 or later
* 31.2 MB

Pricing and Availability:
Zuma Seasons 1.0.1 is free and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Games category.

Zuma Seasons 1.0.1: http://1723888792.qzone.qq.com/
Download from iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/app/id436310102

mobivention Presents Backgammon Gold for iPhone and iPad

mobivention today presents their new version of the classic game Backgammon in a new modern design. Backgammon Gold 1.0 is packed with several individualization opportunities and helpful functions which make a game of Backgammon irresistible. Besides various game board and tile designs, mobivention’s Backgammon Gold also offers 3 difficulty levels. Even newbies will have fun playing this classic, thanks to several help functions.

Device Requirements:
* iPhone, iPod touch, and iPad
* Requires iPhone OS 3.0 or later
* 8.5 MB

Pricing and Availability:
Backgammon Gold 1.0 is free and available worldwide exclusively through the App Store in the Games category.

mobivention: http://www.mobivention.com
Backgammon Gold 1.0: http://www.mobivention.com/webauftritt/englisch/games_applications/iphone_games.php
Download from iTunes: http://itunes.apple.com/app/id423783267