Just released by Psyonix, ARC Squadron: Redux is a reboot of last year’s free Star Fox-style shooter, which puts you in control of a spaceship that flies through 60 levels of gun- and missile-firing action. Unreal Engine graphics optimized for Retina displays are an immediate attention-grabber, but the game has 20 different environments, and nine boss battles. Players can upgrade the ship and weapons as they shoot their way through the galaxy with tap and swipe controls. The music and voice samples are extremely impressive.
Batman: Arkham Origins (free) is a new one-on-one Batman fighting game from Warner Bros.
Basically a sequel to Batman: Arkham City Lockdown, Arkham Origins offers new opponents, backgrounds and costumes. The game features swipe-and-tap gameplay, high-resolution graphics, and places an emphasis on increasing Batman’s abilities as you proceed through the game—not surprisingly, many in-app purchases are available to offset the initially free download, which uses a “stamina” bar to limit your play sessions. It’s also possible to connect the game to the console version of Batman: Arkham Origins for exclusive content.
Google Maps (free) has updated to version 2.3.4. The app now offers faster navigation access with route and traffic overview. It’s now easier to see traffic and construction when deciding which route to take.
Google also added a Tips and Tricks section to the app, which shows users how to get more out of Google Maps. Arabic and Hebrew languages are also now supported, including voice-guided navigation, where available.
Square has introduced Square Cash, a new free app that lets users send money to anyone with an email address by linking a debit card to the app. It’s free to both send and receive the money from a U.S. bank account; there is interestingly no charge for transactions.