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Apps That
Went Free on
2016-03-11

Solve clever crossword-style puzzles, find out when to look up, and complete farm-themed puzzles with today’s collection of apps and games.

Alpha Omega
iPhone
iPad
Alpha Omega

Alpha Omega

BorderLeap

A clever crossword-style puzzle game that has you unscrambling letters.

It’s ideal for word game fans who want a relaxing yet engaging experience.

FREE ($0.99) For a limited time FREE ($0.99) For a limited time
Why we picked this?

The amount of content here is staggering. Alpha Omega’s hundreds of puzzles require you to unscramble the letters to create valid words. Each puzzle provides you with the first and last letters, serving as a guide. Tap on a letter block to select it and tap another to swap. Intersecting letter blocks can be moved in both directions. As each word is deciphered, the rest will begin to fall in to place. Keep in mind that letters can only be swapped once per puzzle. Additional level packs are available via in-app purchase.

Alpha Omega is the total package. It starts off easy in order to introduce you to the gameplay, but the difficulty ramps up quickly, so you’ll have your work cut out for you. Thankfully there aren’t any timers, and the soothing soundtrack will help keep your emotions in check.

Alpha Omega can be difficult. Especially since you can’t undo moves and you have to start over when you make a mistake. If that doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, skip this one.

Sky Live: Heavens Above Viewer
iPhone
Sky Live: Heavens Above Viewer

Sky Live: Heavens Above Viewer

Vito Technology Inc.

Find out how well you’ll be able to see the stars tonight with Sky Live.

This handy reference app is ideal for aspiring astronomers.

FREE ($0.99) For a limited time FREE ($0.99) For a limited time
Why we picked this?

Sky Live presents you with the sky visibility percentage in your area over a beautiful backdrop. The main view also allows you to see sunrise and sunset times. Swipe upwards to get even more detailed data like the current moon phase, light pollution levels, and planet, constellation, and star visibilities. All data is viewable up to seven days out, so you can plan accordingly.

If you enjoy looking up at the stars, download Sky Live today. The handy Today view widget provides you with quick access to all of Sky Live’s most important data, and you can get the same data on your wrist thanks to Apple Watch support.

If you want to see the positions of planets and stars, this isn’t the app for you. Sky Live simply provides data regarding viewing conditions.

Blox 3D Junior
iPhone
iPad
Blox 3D Junior

Blox 3D Junior

Arjun Gupte

Unlock your child’s creative side by allowing them to build 3-D models with this entertainment app.

It’s a fun distraction for children between the ages of one and five.

$8.99 $8.99
Why we picked this?

Blox 3D Junior’s intuitive control scheme allows anyone to create. They start off with a single block, and they can build from there by tapping and pulling to create new blocks. Make sure your child creates their base and moves upwards first, otherwise it can be difficult to navigate the blocks. The blocks can be rotated with a swipe and zoomed in on with a pinch. Double-tap to delete any blocks that have been created. Your child’s creations can be played out within the app or saved to the photo library. There are four pre-built modes included for inspiration.

If you enjoy spending time with your child while building things, check out Blox 3D Junior. It’s a ton of fun for both children and adults.

The app is supposedly intended for children between the ages of one and five, but younger children will have troubles navigating the interface. You’ll either have to join them or skip this one.

Farm Games Animal Games for Kids Puzzles for Kids
iPhone
iPad
Farm Games Animal Games for Kids Puzzles for Kids

Farm Games Animal Games for Kids Puzzles for Kids

Eggroll Games LLC

Join Lily on the farm and put together puzzles in Animal Farm Puzzle.

It’s for the whole family.

$3.99 $3.99
Why we picked this?

You’re able to choose from nine farm-themed puzzles. Each puzzle can be broken up into as few as four pieces and as many as 24. Puzzles can include a background, and you’re able to overlay outlines in order to make fitting in the pieces a little easier. Completed puzzles can be interacted with, creating a fun environment to play in. An option is available to completely skip putting together the puzzles and jump straight to the interactive scenes.

It’s accessible for everyone from toddlers to elementary age children, so join them and have fun.

The game doesn’t include any competitive elements. You’re simply able to put together puzzles at your own pace.

Schulte Table - improve fast reading and attention
iPhone
iPad
Schulte Table - improve fast reading and attention

Schulte Table - improve fast reading and attention

Artem Tselikov

A brain game that will improve your peripheral vision and speed reading.

It’s for anyone who wants to keep their brain sharp.

$0.99 $0.99
Why we picked this?

Schulte Table is all about practice. All you need is 10 minutes a day to improve your mental perception. The object of the game is to simply count up to a designated number in order or spell out the alphabet in order. You’re able to adjust the size, color, and font size of the grid to challenge yourself even more. You’re able to see how your abilities compare with the rest of the world via Game Center leaderboards.

If you want to keep your brain in top shape, Schulte Table is your answer. Just launch the app once a day and spend some time hunting down those numbers and letters.

Schulte Table only includes letter and number options. You won’t find any other brain training exercises.

SillyTale MahJong
iPhone
SillyTale MahJong

SillyTale MahJong

Petr Mizerov

Eliminate the tiles from the board in this classic Mahjong game.

It’s for casual puzzle fans.

$1.99 $1.99
Why we picked this?

Tap on a tile to select it, and then tap on a matching tile that's not blocked in by other tiles to remove it from the board. It’s classic Mahjong gameplay. The game includes 16 layouts, multiple levels of difficulty, undo, hints, zoom, and achievements and leaderboards via Game Center.

With no timers to worry about, this is casual gaming at its best.

Not all puzzles are solvable the first time around, which can be unsatisfying.