Cool Summer Apps for Seasonal Fun & Games

May

2011

Robert Workman, iPadNewsDaily Contributor
08:13 PM ET

Ahhh, summer. There’s nothing quite like it. Between the gorgeous weather and the fun movie blockbusters, there’s a lot to do. That said, even if you just feel like having a “lazy day,” there’s plenty to do on the iPad and iPad 2 devices. Here are some suggestions for affordable summer fun.

Angry Birds Rio HD (Rovio, $2.99)

What would summertime be without hitting the tropics with the Angry Birds? Loosely based around Dreamworks’ 3-D film release "Rio," this latest game has you knocking down blocks and bonking monkeys by strategically firing a variety of birds at them, ranging from tiny blue birds to speedy yellow birds. With more than 90 new levels and a number of hidden fruits to locate, Angry Birds Rio is fun for the whole family.

MLB At Bat ’11 (MLB.com, $14.99)

Baseball is the ultimate summer sport, as nothing beats heading to the stadium, grabbing a beer and a hot dog and watching a game in action. If you can’t make the game, however, MLB At Bat ’11 is the next best thing. Featuring real-time updated stats, virtual displays that recreate each game, radio broadcasts, video highlights and full access to MLB.TV features (if you’re a subscriber), it’s the best way to catch every strike and home run. Batter up!

Death Rally (Remedy Entertainment, $4.99)

To some people, monster truck rallies and demolition derbies are a great way to celebrate summer. Remedy Entertainment gets this, and has tried to capture that feeling in an awesome iPad racing game, Death Rally. Featuring a slew of high-powered racing vehicles, great controls and beautiful graphics, this racing game has lots of fun to offer. Plus new vehicles, tracks and other goodies are added each week at no additional charge. Rev up and get to Rally-ing.

Real Racing 2 HD (Firemint, $9.99)

If you prefer a more realistic racer, and one that brings out the best qualities in the iPad and iPad 2, look no further than Firemint’s mesmerizing Real Racing 2 HD. With lifelike racing visuals (fully supported by iPad 2’s 1080p), exquisite controls and online multiplayer for up to 16 people, there’s no other racing game out there like it. There’s plenty to do on your own as well, with an in-depth Career Mode and more than 30 cars to choose from.

HBO GO (Home Box Office, free)

Last, but definitely not least, we have HBO’s awesome iPad app, which allows users to check out their favorite shows anytime they like with a few simple screen taps. On-demand episodes of shows like "True Blood," "Game of Thrones," "Boardwalk Empire," "The Sopranos" and others are all available, with a user-friendly interface and high-quality video and audio. Note: You need to be an HBO subscriber to use this app, and not all cable services are supported as of yet. (We’re looking at you, Time Warner Cable.)

Have fun — and don’t forget to pack the sunscreen!