Some weeks are better than others in the world of App Store promotions, and this week we've been blessed with a bounty of bargains. Not only are there a handful of quality freebies, Apple just happens to also be running a $0.99 promotion which features many big-name apps reduced to a dollar.
Start your diary for free with Grid Diary, replace your boring calculator app with fancy alternative Numerical and set intuitive reminders with Checkbox – all currently reduced or free!
Apps
Grid Diary ($4.99, now free)
https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/7251228/type/dlg/sid/UUmuoUeUpU54882/https://vimeo.com/94643830
Grid Diary offers iOS users a new way to record their days, using a questionnaire-based approach to journalling. Placed on a grid, the app prompts you with questions designed to inspire thoughtful, introspective entries. The app comes with a unique reading mode for reviewing past entries, as well as the ability to attach photos and search through entries. With a reminder to create entries, iCloud sync, passcode lock and the ability to export your entries; Grid Diary is a unique and exciting entry to the mobile journaling space.
Numerical: Calculator Without Equal ($2.99, now free)
Quite simply, Numerical is a calculator that literally does away with the "equal" button. This results in dynamically calculated answers as you work, complete with quick swipe gestures for undo and redo functionality. The app stores a running history of your workings, features a handy percentage button and looks great to boot.
Path Input - Swipe Keyboard ($19.99, now free)
Android users have always had the upper hand when it comes to text input, as they are able to replace their operating system's default keyboard. As iOS users, we've been forced to rely on apps like this – Path Input, a $20 text input app that allows you to type without lifting your fingers. Come iOS 8, users will be able to change their default keyboards and the developers of this app have promised to upgrade when the time comes – so download it now and be prepared!
Checkmark 2 ($9.99, now $2.99)
https://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/7251228/type/dlg/sid/UUmuoUeUpU54882/http://vimeo.com/88037243
Checkmark 2 a reminders app with an emphasis on GPS reminders and speed. The app allows you to create location-based reminders in only three taps, with the ability to group certain reminders together and trigger all at once when you're near enough to your designated location. Checkmark can create time-based reminders too, along with handy one-tap rescheduling and the ability to set up recurring alarms.
Games
Trainz Driver ($2.99, now free)
There aren't a huge number of railway simulators available on iOS, which is somewhat surprising when you take a look in other genres. Of the limited selection, Trainz is probably one of the best, and Trainz Driver offers locomotive enthusiasts the chance to test drive the series for free before exploring the many other titles in the series. Trainz Driver places an emphasis on accessibility, with intuitive and easy to use controls in place of realism.
Shapist ($2.99, now free)
Shapist puts a new spin on the sliding block puzzle genre by introducing physics and other new mechanics, while staying true to the simplicity of the once-analogue puzzle. Minimalism is the order of the day, as the app features no words, no tutorials, no time limit and ultimately no score – just 65 increasingly difficult sliding block puzzles to work your way through.
Dragon Quest VIII ($19.99, now $14.99)
Dragon Quest VIII was originally released in Japan on the PlayStation 2 in November 2004, and 20 years later Square Enix are rolling it out to a mobile audience in the form of their $20 (now $15) mobile app. The game is a critically acclaimed JRPG that's had a touch-friendly overhaul for this generation's hardware. 3D graphics, accessible controls, a crafting system, character levelling, gambling and a whole open world to explore make this one of the most memorable in the series.
Apple's "Amazing Apps & Games for $0.99" Promotion
The App Store is currently having a special offer and many big-name apps have been reduced to $0.99 for a limited time. There's a good number of apps and games, providing everything from music tools to educational apps, puzzles and endless runners. Open the App Store on your device and look for the offers on the Featured tab, some highlights include:
Games like: Castle of Illusion ($9.99), Strata ($2.99), VVVVVV ($2.99), Rayman Fiesta Run ($2.99), Boson X ($2.99) and IMPOSSIBLE ROAD ($1.99).
That's all for freebies and promotions this week, check back next week for more iOS apps on sale.