Chump Dump brings an interesting concept to social mobile gaming, turning your Twitter friends into a game of keeps. The Android game platforms are also getting red hot, with Google’s App Inventor and the GAME’s mobile platform opening up new opportunities for developers and gamers.
New platforms
Google’s App Inventor is going to be the DIY tool for creating your own Android apps, including games. The “Games” channel is the fastest growing one on Android, and games are a great way to entertain, as well as monetize content in the Market. The move from Google validates and supports developer interest in the mobile app genre, as other game creators like OpenFeint begin to take interest.
The GAME mobile platform is now on Android, offering a hub of casual and classic titles. Its online Mobile Hub has been updated with Android game charts, cross-linking its mobile and web portals. GAMES updates come at an exciting point for Android, as developers like SGN and Mochi Media have recently launched new initiatives as well.
Up in the air
Combining augmented reality and game graphics, the 3D Sky Siege is taking mobile games to new heights. This $2.25 shooter game looks great on high-performance Android devices as you soar through the skies shooting down bomber attackers. Move your phone to control your plane and find yourself immersed in gameplay.
Accelorometer-game lovers will delight in the new My Paper Plane 2. Coast your paper plane through a series of obstacles, such as landscapes filled with houses, trees and other flying objects. For $3.99, the full version gives you all the levels, though the free version is best during beta. Power-up to boost your plane’s flight–even more fun than the first.
Socially and spatially aware
Chump Dump is a game rewards you for having fewer Twitter friends, not more. Sifting through your Twitter interactions, you’re presented with an option to save or dump a friend. The object is still to top the leaderboard, but for very different and compelling reasons. The free game won’t get you a Whopper, but it will make you think.
Traffic Jam‘s puzzle game is making an impact. Similar to Rush Hour, you have to get your car (piece) through a pretty packed road. Move cars around to clear the jam and get your own car to safety. For about $2, Traffic Jam’s full version offers thousands of levels for endless challenges. Games run quickly and smoothly, and make for great time-killers.
If you’re good at math and like obscure board games, try the new Abalone app. Basic in its graphics, the free app is a good way to acquaint yourself with a new challenge. Game play is easy and full of challenges, making it a great way to tickle your brain for a lazy weekend.
