Gaming apps: the best of Parcheesi, Sudoku and game compendiums
There's always time for a little bit of gaming, especially over a long summer break, so load up on interactive games and apps for long journeys, balmy evenings or rainy days with this selection. Today, we're looking at 9 apps for board game fans -- 3 of the best from the worlds of Parcheesi (or Ludo), Scrabble and game compendiums.
Parcheesi, Parchis, Ludo
With roots going back to sixth-century India's Pachisi, several well-received variants of Parcheesi (US name) or Ludo (UK name) suggest themselves across iOS and Android. "Ludo Online," also known as Mr Ludo (iOS, Android), spruces up the classic game by swapping out its counters for little people in themed locations and has modes for local play with friends, against AI or online.
The free "Simply Ludo" (iOS) does what it says on the box, with a pared-down look, human or AI players and four backgrounds to choose from, though a one-time multiplayer unlock is billed at $2.99.
"Ludo Parchis Classic Woodboard" (Android) offers a time-worn look and even allows players to use real dice instead of simulated rolls.
Sudoku
Jason Linhart has ":) Sudoku +" on iOS (known as "Enjoy Sudoku" on Android, Nook and Kindle or "♡ Sudoku" on Mac); with a $2.99 upgrade it can even scan in puzzles from books or newspapers via camera and has a solver and tutorial modes.
The clear design of Mind the Frog's "⁺Sudoku" (iOS, $0.99) also incorporates difficulty levels from Easy to Diabolical.
For those looking to shake up standard Sudoku technique, the free "▻Sudoku" (iOS, $2.99 upgrade) by Finger Arts encourages puzzle-solvers to go for the higher scoring combinations first.
Compendiums
"Table Games" from Batsu (iOS, $3.99) gives players equipment rather than rules -- counters, solitaire pegs, puzzle pieces and a selection of boards and backgrounds. It's up to players to choose what and how to play.
"Your Move Board Games" (iOS) adds in a dash of color and contemporary family games, including 4 In A Row and Scrabble. It's free with ads or $1.99 without and has online multiplayer and a Lifeline system that gives players an extra chance (and Candywriter LLC a bit of extra revenue).
"Best Board Games" (iOS, $0.99) comes with Snakes and Ladders, Spanish export Game of the Goose, Ludo and two Ludo variants in LuBall (soccer themed) and LuDuo (for team play).
