Games for the iPad: What Really Works

14 May 2010 | Games | Ali Gorelova on Google+

Apple iPad games are like patients that sometimes require a treatment. The question is will Apple become a doctor?

Most iPad gamers should know by now what are the strengths and weaknesses of this Apple’s platform. Sadly, developers didn’t have enough time to pay much attention to their games released for the tablet. Many popular iPhone games are still not available for the new device, not to mention brand new ideas.

At the same time, among the best-for-the-moment games developers for iPad you can meet such gigantic game makers as Square Enix or Electronic Arts. It’s cool that such well-known companies support the tablet, but many games for the iPad still can’t boast with a good quality. It’s understood, because game makers didn’t have enough time to study the new device and understand its game platform.

While playing many games you can understand that your iPad’s control system doesn’t allow you performing many tricks. Let’s take a look at your control schemes and genres of games that suit you the best.

Intuitiveness Illness

If you like to play shooter iPad games, you can’t enjoy this experience as you have probably used to on the iPhone. The tablet’s virtual d-pad system isn’t too intuitive. So you pay higher prices for the games, but don’t feel satisfied.

Cluttered interface of your iPad didn’t improve shooters experience either. Instead, you get the same mobile game as on the iPhone. Oh, sorry. You just pay more.

Gesture Headaches

Don’t expect your tablet to allow you easily playing gesture-based strategies. You will not succeed, because these controls sometimes don’t work that good, but give you more headaches.

When you just tap your finger up and down, you can control your character without any difficulties. Try to do something more exact and you will fail.

Easy Touch is a Nice Pill

If you are a fan of tower defense and other rhythm games that rely on tapping, the iPad is great for them. You can enjoy playing tapping games as much as you have enjoyed them on the iPod touch or iPhone.

A larger tablet’s screen shows much more of the battlefield than other gadgets. While building your own strategy you can view your units and easy send orders by touching your screen.

Your Personal Nurse

The iPad is a great device for racing games. Its unique shape reminds of a vehicle’s steering wheel that is easy to hold and control. This lets players enjoy many driving games.

You can also play iPhone games that were adapted to the new device. Of course, their graphics have been changed for the bigger screen, and in the future developers might add new levels and maps to make your gaming experience more fun.

As you see, Apple has to continue improving its tablet, and game developers should pay more attention to the platform for their future apps. For now only strategies, races, board games and pinball have succeeded on the iPad. Other genres still require much work on them.