All Words Up Saga - 2.5 Stars

What is it?

This is a join letters together, to make words  with the goal to get a high score and pass the level. There are a variety of levels and challenges in this game for example, to score as many points in a limited number of moves or within a certain time frame.  If you like word searches then this game could be for you. 

You create words by joining them with a line, unlike conventional word searches, you can cross the line and zig zag across the letters, very like Boggle. 

As you win levels, you win more tokens. As you lose levels you lose one of your five hearts, which you have to wait to be refreshed. As with most of these games there are in app purchases, to buy your way out of difficult levels. 

The graphics are limited on the app, but they work, which is good. 

I played a few levels of this game, but need to be in a wordy mood to play it again. The app isn't bad, in fact it does what it says on the tin. I compared this app to Freeze It, which I felt was more exciting because of the competitive elements, however if you don't like competition this might be better for you. 

Now for some ratings.....

Ease of use - 4

This app is very easy to use and comes with clear and short instructions, which is all that you need. I didn't spell very many long words so I am not sure if it recognises UK and USA spellings.
Price - 3

This was free, but there are in app purchases ranging from £0.69 - £2.99. I took another look at the App Store before publishing the review, and it indicates that this app may not be free for long. 

Adverts - 5

I didn't experience any adverts in this app, always appreciated.

Keep, jury is out or delete - Keep

I will be keeping this app for now as I want to see how far I can get but I will need to be in the mood to play it. 

Where to find it:

Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/all-words-up-saga/id757682832

Shape Shuffle A Shape Saga - 4 Stars

What is it?

This an educational puzzle game that gets you to replicate displayed pictures from a selection of shapes.  

Basically you drag the shapes you want onto the drawing board at which point you can rotate them into the required position and then add more shapes. Each time you place a shape a mini version appears on the right hand side, here you can drag the pictures into the order they should be laid/stacked. 

It took me a couple of attempts to understand that you have a limit to the number of shapes that you can add to the board, which forces you to think a bit harder to solve it.  

I discovered most of the functionality such as the removing, rotating and placing of the shapes in layers by trial and error so if you are using this with kids it might be worth having a go first and showing them how to use it. 

There three levels of difficulty: Easy, Medium and Hard. Each level does get more difficult but if you do them in order it feels like you are being coached through the answers.  The app uses bright colours and is designed really well to appeal to children and adults. 

At no point in using the app was I promoted to upgrade or buy additional levels, but they are available when you click on the shopping cart.  There is a  range of different bundles and episodes to buy at varied prices. 

I wasn't expecting to like this app, but I really did.  The puzzles vary really well and some get the old grey matter going!

Now for some ratings.....

Ease of use - 3

This is easy to use for me as an adult who doesn't mind fiddling with the settings but it does lack some instructions for the younger or less brave users. 
Price - 4

This is initially a free app and comes with a great range of free puzzles. There are in app purchases but these are not constantly promoted which I liked.  

Adverts - 5

No annoying adverts! Excellent!

Keep, jury is out or delete - Keep

I liked this game and I will be keeping it until I complete it. I will also be sharing this with my friends son who is 5 to see how he gets on!

Where to find it:

Apple: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/shape-shuffle-a-shape-saga/id688006714