Since the new iPad made its debut in the U.S. and nine other countries last week, iOS developers have been working hard to optimize their titles for the device’s Retina display. There are already some fantastic games on offer that are Retina-ready, so we’ve compiled a list of the best so that you can get you game on in stunning high-definition, and compared them to their iPad 2 counterparts so you can see how nice the new graphics look.
Infinity Blade II — $5.99
Infinity Blade II has been an App Store favorite for nearly 18 months now. It has collected a slew of awards in that time, and it’s still being voted as one of the most impressive games on iOS. Built using the Unreal 3 engine, this title pushes the boundaries of mobile gaming and delivers a console-quality experience that looks remarkable on the new iPad.
If you just got the new iPad and you already own Infinity Blade II, this is a great excuse to go back and play it all over again. And if you don’t already own it, there’s never been a better time to buy it now it’s Retina-ready.
Sky Gamblers: Air Supremacy — $4.99
Sky Gamblers: Air Supremacy looks so good that Apple asked Namco to take to the stage and show it off during the new iPad’s unveiling earlier this month. On that Retina display, Air Supremacy will blow your socks off. Its visuals are out of this world, and personally, I think they’re unmatched by any other iOS game — or any other mobile game for that matter.
Mass Effect Infiltrator — $6.99
The hardcore gamers amongst you may already be well into Mass Effect 3 on your console, but for the first time ever you can get your Mass Effect fix on-th-go. From the makers of the hugely popular Dead Space for iOS, Mass Effect Infiltrator is an all-new and original storyline made exclusively for mobile devices. It promises to deliver a new dimension in iOS gaming, with stunning visuals and intense audio effects.
Real Racing 2 — $6.99
Real Racing 2 from Firemint, like Infinity Blade II, is a must-have. It’s undoubtedly one of the most popular racing games on iOS, and it’s easy to see why. It features 30 licensed cars from real-world manufacturers that you can throw around some really awesome tracks in 15 stunning locations. There’s over 10 hours of gameplay to enjoy, and with 16-player online multiplayer, Real Racing 2 has an endless replay value. One of its best features, however, is that you can hook it up to your HDTV with AirPlay and play on the big screen while using your iPad as a controller.
Modern Combat 3: Fallen Nation — $0.99
If first-person shooters are you’re thing, and you’re a fan of Call of Duty in particular, then Gameloft’s Modern Combat 3: Fallen Nation should be installed on your new iPad. It’s currently the best FPS for the new iPad, featuring a lengthy (but gripping!) 13-mission campaign that takes you from Los Angeles to Pakistan. It also features an awesome online multiplayer mode with support for up to 12 players, that offers a numbers of game modes including team deathmatch, capture the flag, and more.
Flight Control Rocket — $0.99
Like Sky Gamblers, Flight Control Rocket was designed with the new iPad in mind from day one. It’s the sequel to Firemint’s popular Flight Control game, but it’s set in space and packed full of pretty rockets. There are 15 spacecraft, all of which feature unique abilities and characteristics, and a cast of quirky robots with special powers. Flight Control Rocket is simple, addictive, and the perfect pick-up-and-play game for your new iPad.
Ice Rage — $0.99
Ice Rage is a personal favorite of mine, and I’ve been glued to it since I downloaded it a few weeks ago. It’s a simple hockey game that aims to “bring the classic 8-bit hockey experience to the 21st century!” You get a virtual analog stick and just one button with which to beat your opponent in a one-on-one battle. It’s intense, fast-paced and hugely enjoyable. And it looks great with high-resolution artwork for the new iPad.
