Berlin (dpa) – Smartphone and tablet users worried they’ve lost their edge can turn to a host of new mobile games to get their reaction times back up to snuff.
These new games feature everything from Santa Claus on a motorcycle to a group of tomb raiders on the run.
Temple Run borrowed heavily from the iconic scene in Raiders of the Lost Ark, where Indiana Jones steals a golden statue from a temple and must then subsequently escape a series of threats.
Imangi Studios more or less turned that scene into an entire game that scored 170 million downloads.
Temple Run 2, the sequel for iOS and Android, also allows players to follow their character through a labyrinth full of dangers. Points become more common as danger levels increase; collected money leads to more skills.
The new version includes more bonuses and traps, as well as some new settings, including a mine. Download is free, though players need real money to buy skills and advantages.
Sega’s Ikaruga was an arcade classic that is now enjoying a mobile revival.
The game stands out because of its ever-changing colours. Enemies shoot either black or white blasts. Players can change their settings to make their ship immune to one or the other colour. It’s not as simple as it sounds.
The game is available for 6.75 euros (9 dollars) at Google Play.
Super Hexagon, from Terry Cavanagh for the iOS and Android, also looks extremely simple upon first glance.
At the centre is a giant hexagon to which other hexagons are drawn. However, spaces remain between these shapes, through which the player must guide his triangular icon.
As play progresses, the hexagons move more quickly, upping the ante. But players usually feel compelled to keep going thanks to the vivid images and pounding music. Android users have to pay 70 euro cents for the game, while iOS players need to invest 2.69 euros.
Joe Danger is named after its lead character, a stuntman who loves risking danger on his motorcycle, flying over ramps, flaming rings and pools full of sharks. Originallly an XBox 360 and Playstation 3 game, it’s now available for iPhone and iPad.
Lacking a gamepad, players now control the game with basic movements and finger tricks. Priced at 2.69 euros, Joe Danger is fairly comprehensive, with more than 50 courses.
Each requires players to complete three missions, completion of which leads to bonus missions and special costumes, such as Elvis, zombie or Santa Claus ones. Times and high scores can be shared online with friends.