The best free iPad games, period
Some things in life really are free. Check out our picks for the best games on the iPad that don't cost anything at all (unless you choose to buy in-app upgrades later).
Blockheads: like Minecraft, but...more 2D.
(Credit: Screenshot by Scott Stein/CNET)In case you haven't already figured it out, there are a lot of good free games on the iPad. That's never been clearer now that AAA games like Real Racing 3 are now joining the free-to-play world, too.
See for yourself in the slideshow below, and click through for our picks. Board games, arcade games, shooters, puzzles, simulations -- there's something for everyone.
But, the hunt for free games does have its caveats: nearly all these games try to monetize themselves either through ads or in-app purchases. The former can get annoying if the ads are too intrusive, and the latter (called "freemium") could hook you into spending a lot of cash on nickel-and-dime extras. The games on this list, while often employing in-app purchases, are fun enough in their free state that you don't need to buy unless you really want to -- just beware of those occasional hooks to spend.
I've tried to pick games that stand on their own, with tons of content in their free iterations that make the games well worth the download. Total cost for you? $0.
Did I miss any? Sound off with some suggestions below.
Don't mind spending a little money? Make sure to check out CNET's list of best iPad games, some of which don't cost more than a dollar anyway.
Free iPad games
Editors' note: This post was originally published September 23, 2011, and was updated on May 10, 2013, adding five new games.
