Inspired by Battleship, a Retro iPad Game Roundup
May 18, 2012
We’re a little disappointed that the alien invaders in this summer’s big-budget blockbuster Battleship movie aren’t just walking, talking versions of the little plastic pegs that came with the original game. Still, we’re not complaining about more action and explosions, not to mention the possibility of hearing a serious actor shout “You sunk my battleship!” And since we’re in a retro board game mood, we’ve taken a look at what else is available for playing from the iTunes App Store.
Risk ($6.99) – World domination could be just a few taps away. One of the most popular tabletop strategy games of all time, Risk’s epic international battles are definitely ripe for the big screen treatment. Until then, game with up to six total players on the same iPad, or link up multiple iPads via Wi-Fi for local multiplayer without all that annoying “sharing.” Then sit back and let your troops do the fighting for you, marching off to live or die based on the roll of your virtual die.
The Game of Life ($4.99) – Real life can be hard, but at least The Game of Life is still easy. This iPad version of the family game-night staple from way back in 1960 is well suited for young kids, who will appreciate the cute animations and bright, colorful art style. We’re pretty sure this one already got made into a movie though, and it was so beloved that it won six Academy Awards. The mystery is why they decided to release it under the name “Forrest Gump.”
Battleship ($4.99) – We couldn’t leave out the title that inspired this retro game hunt, sea-assault simulator Battleship. Though it still amounts to a contest of high-tech number guessing, it’s just as rewarding as ever to finally get a hit and send an enemy destroyer sinking to a watery grave. And to make it as close to the original as possible, they’ve even included a “side by side” mode where you and your opponent have to trust each other not to look at the other person’s game board when it’s not your turn. Ha!
Alexei Bochenek is a lifelong tech nerd & film buff based in Los Angeles. When he’s not playing with his phone, it’s because the movie has started. Shhhhh!
