Mobile Gaming Roundup: From Witcher Bards to Shotgun Chess – New Titles to Conquer Your Downtime

As global events cast a shadow and the promise of summer remains distant, mobile gaming offers a vital escape. This month’s releases deliver a diverse range of experiences, from a unique take on The Witcher universe to a thrilling Tomb Raider port and even chess with a decidedly violent twist. We’ve sifted through the new arrivals to bring you the titles worth your time and attention.

New Mobile Games to Dive Into This Month

Ponchorado: A Stylish Bullet Hell

iOS & Android, free (SEAL.GAMES)

Drawing inspiration from the visually striking Cuphead (as reviewed previously), Ponchorado plunges players into a sepia-toned world of cartoonish action. You embody a stuntman tasked with eliminating waves of bandits. The gameplay loop involves dodging gunfire, automatically returning fire, and upgrading your arsenal between levels – punctuated by unavoidable advertisements. While the witty dialogue adds charm, progression feels frustratingly slow.

Score: 6/10

Tomb Raider: A Cinematic Port

iOS & Android, £12.99 (Feral Interactive)

Feral Interactive continues its impressive track record of mobile ports with a faithful adaptation of the 2013 Tomb Raider reboot. Despite its age, the game’s action and pacing remain remarkably cinematic, surpassing many more recent titles. The touch controls are adequate, particularly on larger screens like the iPad Pro, but controller support is highly recommended for the more frantic combat sequences. The inclusion of all seven DLC packs adds significant value, making this a compelling package for fans of Lara Croft’s origin story.

Score: 8/10

Shotgun King: Chess Reimagined

iOS & Android, £5.99 (Plug In Digital)

Shotgun King boldly reimagines the classic game of chess. The black king, armed with a pump-action shotgun, disrupts the traditional strategic landscape. Players can eliminate opposing pieces with brute force, adding a chaotic and unpredictable element to each match. The roguelike structure introduces cards that modify gameplay, ensuring each attempt feels unique. Its 16-bit aesthetic and fast-paced rounds make it perfectly suited for mobile play.

Score: 8/10

Reigns: The Witcher: A Bard’s Tale

iOS & Android, £5.99 (Devolver Digital)

The Reigns series, known for its binary choice gameplay, takes on The Witcher universe. However, instead of controlling Geralt, players assume the role of Dandelion, the bard, attempting to build his reputation through tales of the Witcher’s exploits. Decisions are presented in rhyming couplets, and your demise contributes to Dandelion’s fame. While the concept is intriguing, the game’s lightweight nature and reliance on rapid-fire choices often feel unsatisfying.

Score: 5/10

Dwarves: Glory, Death and Loot: Tactical Skirmishes

iOS & Android, £4.99 (Sidekick)

Command a band of pixel art dwarves in strategic 2D skirmishes. Dwarves: Glory, Death and Loot challenges players to recruit, equip, and strategically position their units. Battles unfold automatically, influenced by your pre-battle decisions. The game’s faux-Olde English introduction is intentionally sparse, encouraging players to experiment and discover its intricacies. If you enjoy a slow-burn, dexterity-free strategic experience, this title is worth exploring.

Score: 8/10

Retrocade: A Nostalgic Arcade Collection

iOS, included with Apple Arcade (Resolution Games)

Unlike many retro game collections plagued by licensing issues, Retrocade boasts an impressive lineup including classics like Asteroids, Breakout, Bubble Bobble, and Pac-Man. While onscreen controls can be problematic, particularly in Pac-Man, controller support elevates the experience. The integrated achievement system adds an extra layer of engagement, encouraging players to revisit these timeless arcade favorites.

Score: 7/10

Last Asylum: Plague: A Disappointing Reskin

iOS & Android, free (37Games Global)

Despite its intriguing art style and unusual plague-themed premise, Last Asylum: Plague ultimately falls flat. It’s a blatant reskin of existing kingdom-builder titles like Rise of Kingdoms and Evony, offering little originality. The game relies heavily on pay-to-win mechanics, automating gameplay and pressuring players to spend money for progression. Abandon all hope, indeed.

Score: 2/10

What mobile game has recently captured *your* attention? And are there any classic titles you’d love to see ported to mobile platforms?

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