As a long-time Apple fan, I naturally spend some time gaming on my iPhone and iPad. Whether it’s while traveling or just waiting at the doctor’s office, a quick game is the perfect way to pass the time.
Here are a few of my all-time favorite iOS games that might sweeten some of your own spare moments:
geoDefense & geoDefense Swarm
Tower Defense with a neon twist
geoDefense is a classic tower defense game, but with a unique, glowing neon aesthetic. Your job is to defend your base from waves of enemies traveling along a path, using towers like lasers, rockets, single-shot cannons, and slow-down effects. Each tower can be upgraded in multiple stages, giving you strategic variety and depth.
The sequel, geoDefense Swarm, takes the concept further: instead of fixed paths, you block and redirect the enemy swarms with your tower placement, opening up completely new tactics.
Both games run on iPhone and also on iPad (in scaled-up mode). Even though the graphics are a little stretched on the iPad, the extra screen real estate makes placing towers easier and more precise. Addictive gameplay for just a couple of euros!
Carcassonne
The board game classic, perfectly translated to iOS
TheCodingMonkeys delivered a superb digital version of the world-famous board game Carcassonne. The app is polished, detailed, and captures the charm of the original.
It features strong computer opponents with different playstyles, Game Center support, and—best of all—a true online multiplayer mode that works asynchronously, so you don’t have to be online at the same time as your opponent. Finding players is quick and effortless.
Yes, the price is higher than many other mobile games, but it’s worth every cent. It runs natively on both iPhone and iPad, with regular updates and excellent support for new devices. A must-have for board game lovers.
TowerDefense
Exactly what the name promises
I have a soft spot for tower defense games, and TowerDefense is a simple but highly enjoyable one. It’s smooth, visually appealing, and offers a solid range of missions and challenges. Completing all levels will easily take 10+ hours, and even longer if you want to beat every difficulty setting.
It runs on iPhone and iPad (scaled mode), with an HD version available as well. Either way, it’s a fun, affordable title that’s well worth a try.
While iOS gaming has evolved massively since then—with Apple Arcade and countless AAA-quality titles—these classics still hold a special nostalgic charm.
