Iron Man 2 (iPad)

Iron Man 2 has been blowing up the box office, yet that doesn't mean it's having the same success blown up on the bigger iPad screen.

Like the underwhelming iPhone and iPod touch version, this iPad game is little more than the rusty remains of action gaming.

Alloyed with a questionable technical performance, the game's stale combat mechanics and bland scenarios deflate what should be a thrilling adventure.

Following from the events of the film, Tony Stark and company embark on an effort to track the purveyor of weapons reverse-engineered from their own designs. Tracking these copycats down essentially means destroying them on sight and so most of Iron Man 2 involves shooting at mechanised drones and suited enemies with the occasional boss battle.

None of the action is particular exciting, nor is it well choreographed. Lazy design results in excessive repetition. Each of the game's 9 levels can be easily passed by jamming on the attack button in the lower-right corner to rid the screen of any enemies. Boss battles are no more compelling, featuring simple attack patterns that are quickly overcome.

The incorporation of on-rails shooting levels is clearly intended to vary gameplay, but they only serve to highlight the monotony of the action.

Even upgrades unlocked by spending experience points earned from defeating enemies can't do the trick. Every upgrade can be gained well before the final level and only Tony Stark benefits from them, not other playable character Lt. Colonel Rhodes, who oddly cannot be enhanced in any form.

Technical quirks also turn this dull game into an annoying one. I had to restart it during one level because a faulty checkpoint prevented progress. Another instance saw the game crashing to the home screen when the sleep button was pressed.

Slowdown is noticeable in a number of sections too, which not only diminishes the pace of combat but shines a spotlight on the mediocre graphics.

While the larger iPad screen does allow plenty of room for manoeuvring in the suit, there's nothing to distinguish this as better than the iPhone and iPod touch version or even worthwhile when considered on its own.

When it comes to Iron Man 2 avoid this disappointing showing and stick to the silver screen.