reigns: game Of thrones

£3.99/$4.99

“Swipe left or right to trigger different decisions and responses”

If you’re starting to get twitchy as that 14 April season 8 premier edges ever closer to our screens then this IOS game provides a light slice of Westeros action to help distract you. Reigns is an app in its own right that has been awarded the prestigious Editor’s Choice award in the App Store, largely thanks to its simplistic play style mixed with far-reaching consequences for your actions. This version simply applies the GOT universe to the same laid back game engine, and it makes for a compelling experience.

All of the main players are present and correct, including Cersei Lannister, Jon Snow and Daenerys Targaryen – although a lot of their menace is lost through the – admittedly charming – visual representations on display here. You are presented with situations, be it negotiating with hostile factions or trying to outwit political rivals, and you can swipe left or right to trigger different decisions and responses, all of which affect the outcome of your path. However basic the interface feels when you start playing, the game constantly throws up surprises, such as mini-games, and, as you unlock more kings and queens, whole new challenge threads to explore.

Rather than retelling the story of the Seven Kingdoms as it has played out on our screens, Reigns: GOT lets you shape the world to your own whim and explore the alternate timelines that would have occurred had the characters in the show taken a different path. The narrative is fed to you in quick-fire cards that are easy to digest, meaning you can flick and swipe your way through the action at a satisfying pace. Above everything else it feels authentic. A fun and imaginative way to explore a story we know only too well.

Verdict

Utterly compelling, Reigns: GOT lets you explore, experience and shape the events of Westeros through a simple and engaging interface.