
GameZebo: Like all social games, there’s an in-app purchase element here that isn’t required to enjoy the offering, but can certainly help to speed things up for impatient gamers. “Magic beans” can be purchased to make workers “hurry,” forcing collection of raw materials or production of new items to happen the moment you want them.

John Bedford (Modojo): Clash of Clans has consumed many a gaming hour in 2012, but what if you're looking for something just a little bit different? We've rounded up some of the title's finest contemporaries for you to begin your next empire in.

The Quality Index champions the best God games available on iPhone.

AppSafari - Social games like Farmville and We Rule are a dime a dozen in the App Store, and usually the biggest difference you find between them is the theme. If you like zombies, there’s Zombie Farm. If you’re more into animals, you play Tap Zoo, and no matter which one you choose, it’s all fairly safe and predictable.