12 cert, Mind Trip Studios, iPod Touch (also iPhone) ***

Ring Bladeis a frenetic shooter that features none of the following staples: aliens, marines, robots or zombies. It's a simple idea, nicely executed, and an ideal app game, even if gameplay is limited. The object is to fire blades (such as throwing stars) to repel incoming objects. These can ricochet off walls and can be charged for maximum damage. Your character takes the shape of a barbed circle that must shoot and avoid a variety of spiky, apparently organic enemies that resemble thistles, thorny roses and prickly vines. This stylish monochrome game is accompanied by gratifyingly metallic sound effects and a frenetic electronic score. The pretentious backstory is about someone fending off madness and fighting to control their mind. But don't concern yourself with all-that – just enjoy Ring Bladefor the diverting game it is.