Evoland

Explore gaming evolution

£3.99 Developer Shiro Games, shirogames.com

Works with iPhone, iPod touch, iPad Version 1.2.12

Evoland is a retroinspired journey through the history of gaming. With nods to cherished classics such as Pokémon and The Legend of Zelda, it’s a novel idea with a compelling story and some gorgeous graphics.

Progress is rewarded with gradually upgraded visuals and new abilities that mirror video game development, all accompanied by humorous (if somewhat sarcastic) comments on your newfound powers.

It’s an intriguing concept, ultimately let down by clumsy controls that border on the frustrating. And while recreating the worlds of yesteryear has its charm, there are some ghosts of gaming past we’d rather weren’t revived (such as constant random encounters).

With a few minor tweaks, Evoland could have stolen our hearts, and we wish we could rate it higher. Unfortunately, we’re left with the feeling that it’s a brilliant idea that just misses the mark. Alex Blake

Frustratingly close to being the game we’d love it to be, Evoland takes a pleasant trip down memory lane.