Parents' Guide to Darkness Rises

Aside from some seriously annoying ad pop-ups, this is a next-level mobile RPG that should appeal to many gamers. Combat in Darkness Rises comes wrapped in a surprisingly rich storyline, complete with full-motion cutscenes and voice acting, and it's tons of fun thanks to a smart control setup. And if you're into graphics, you won't be let down. Characters and environments are exceptional (though female character outfits are more suitable for exotic dancers than warriors), and special effects are eye-popping. If the story doesn't suck you in, the crafting and upgrading will. Role-players who live to tinker with their skills, look, and equipment have plenty to do and will get a kick out of all the customization options. Beyond that, there's versus play, co-op dungeons, and raids. The action in all of these modes is fast and furious, and heroes both look and feel powerful.

Although technically there's an energy system (called "adventure keys") in place, you never feel it because you never run out. Plus, when you need a break from all the fighting, crafting, and looting, you can hang out in the village, chat with other players, and maybe do a little fishing. The only thing marring this otherwise great game is the insane number of pesky in-app ads. They're the equivalent of digital horseflies; you're forced to constantly shoo them away. This could be a symptom of a too-generous energy system, but it definitely needs to be turned down. Still, Darkness Rises is an excellent game, and annoying ads are a small price to pay for hours of quality role-playing.