Games are increasingly concerned with social interactions – whether that means simple multiplayer options or the means to tweet successes automatically. However, Minecraft – Pocket Edition (Android Market, Android, £4.29, Mojang) revels in its role as solitary sandpit. A pared-down version of the indie PC hit, Pocket Edition offers the Creative mode from the main game, where you are provided with a random expanse of land upon which to erect your chosen structures. Putting together architectural masterpieces with different blocks of stone, wood and other materials is instantly enjoyable, even if it lacks any specific goal beyond the aesthetic. The controls could do with improvement, with the virtual D-pad not responsive enough – but this is a refreshingly entertaining game and one of the few that hasn't yet made it on to Apple's ubiquitous handset.
In contrast, Greed Corp HD (App Store, iPad, £2.99, Vanguard) is more concerned with destruction than construction. In a futuristic world where resources are scarce, four factions battle in this turn-based strategy game. The aim is to occupy hexagonal land masses with robotic slaves, harvesters to mine for gold and walkers to attack the opposition. The twist is that the ground beneath you erodes as it is harvested or attacked, eventually crumbling to nothing and sending minions into the ether. Originally an Xbox Live release, it suits the touch controls and while the single player is engrossing, and online multiplayer fun, it shines with four friends playing pass the iPad and rejoicing as foes plummet to their doom.
