Although this App may seem like a simple arcade-style game, each level requires a good deal of thought as you figure out a way to clear away all the blocks of ice while rescuing every penguin.

The main premise is that an Eskimo boy is wandering the ice rescuing penguins.  For the most part, he can step on a piece of ice only once, and it will disappear behind him as soon as he steps off.  This makes completing levels more than just a Pac-Man style mad dash around the ice, but rather each move needs to be carefully considered.

As the game progresses, there are of course wrinkles such as ice blocks which must be stepped on twice before they disappear, super slippery blocks that don’t disappear but also don’t let you stop on them, wandering penguins who will walk right into the water if you don’t rescue them in time and more.

To move, you simply swipe your finger in the direction you want to go anywhere on the screen . Holding it at the end of your swipe will make you continue to go that way.  We actually really like the way this controls, and think it’s cool to be able to swipe anywhere you want.

We love the Penguin Patrol app, and think it’s a great choice for nearly any age.  Preschoolers can easily control it and will want to play, but they’ll quickly run out of levels to do as the game ramps up in difficulty.