Danger Mouse: The Danger Games

This little racing game proves it's possible to create a good-quality, truly free-to-play app. Danger Mouse: The Danger Games' friendly approach removes all the negative aspects of online multiplayer while preserving everything fun about competitive racing. Its first good move is making players choose from pre-existing (though randomly generated) names. That means your kids' identities aren't at risk, and they won't be exposed to crude or obscene player names. The next good choice Danger Mouse: TDG makes is its lack of chat. The only communication occurs through four basic emojis (sad, happy, angry, or bored) at the start and end of each race, so there's no chance for trash talk or bullying. Even better than the social aspect, though, is the gameplay. Each hero (or heroine) has his (or her) own strengths, and these can be augmented with wonderfully silly power-up cards like Bubble Wrap or Unicorn Fart. Arenas are colorful, creative, and sprinkled with funny hazards like robots and teddy bears, which savvy players will put to strategic use. Best of all, no matter how you place -- first place or fourth -- you win card packs and currency to expand your collection. Granted, every few minutes there are some annoying ads to sit through, and the app does remind you to visit the shop and buy things. Still, progress is totally possible without spending a dime, and what's a few 30-second interruptions in exchange for this much free fun?