Nam’s Remote – Allround Remote Control

Available In: App Store       Price: $2.99  

Nam's RemoteOne of the first apps I downloaded was Apple’s very own Remote app, and though I don’t use it very much, I was definitely impressed with its ease of use and functionality. It was cool to be able to control my iTunes library on my home computer with my phone. With the success of the Remote app, I wondered what else I could control with my iPhone: my T.V, my lights, or my thermostat? With Nam’s Remote, I don’t get to do any of these things, but I do get access to a few interesting features.

Overview
Nam’s Remote was pretty easy to set up. You will need to download a separate application for the computer that you intend to control. After adjusting the settings on this app, you then need to establish a connection to your iPhone/iPod. This involves knowing the IP address, but the program helps you find it with ease. Once connected, you then have access to a wide range of functions ranging from using your iPhone as a trackpad (my personal favorite) to using it as a keyboard or controlling other programs on your computer such as PowerPoint and Windows Media Player. [Read more…]

Ballsy – Breakout Style Game

Available In: App Store       Price: $1.99  

Ballsy I was never really good at Arkanoid. For some reason, versions of this game often are quick to be reproduced and released on portable gaming platforms. I’m sure I have a free version of this game on my iPhone somewhere. Fortunately for me, Ballsy (let’s get over the name fast, since I’ll be using it several times in this review, shall we?) offers a different type of game from Arkanoid that makes it more easily playable and potentially more enjoyable.

Overview
Ballsy is a simple breakout type game with the additional feature of allowing you to control the horizontal movement of the ball. Your goal is to collide your ball with the blocks and you can only break blocks with the current matching color. Special blocks can change your current color, but skull and crossbone blocks will ultimately lead to your doom. Options include changing the speed which will give you higher bonuses, tracking local and worldwide high scores, and the ability to resume saved games. [Read more…]