Legend of Solgard review: A Nordic blast of cool

NAME Legend of Solgard

WHAT IT IS Mobile game giant King, maker of Candy Crush, has released its first game designed for traditional gamers.

HOW MUCH Free, in-app purchases from 99 cents and up

COMPATIBLE WITH iPhone, iPad and iPod touch, requires iOS 9.0 or later; Android 4.4 and up

WHAT'S GOOD It's set within the fantasy realm of Nordic folklore and follows the journey of Embla through the game's nine massive worlds as she fights to prevent Ragnarok (the end of the world). The goal is to defeat the moon god Mani. You take control of Embla's army at the bottom half of the screen and try to destroy Mani's ice minions and the ice shield at the top of the screen. Gameplay is easy, as you match different creatures together (three to five) vertically to create larger combatants or match them horizontally to create walls to defend against the invading creatures.

Everything is turn-based, but the action moves quickly because you get to make three moves at a time. Then there's the strategy level as you can see the other side of the battlefield and which enemies are approaching, so you can align your fighters accordingly. When your warriors are killed in combat, they can be revived to fortify your army. As you acquire in-game diamonds, gold, sun gems and assorted loot, they can be used to purchase new items and warriors.

WHAT'S NOT Though the game has been designed to be played for free, after a few hours of continuous gameplay you'll be forced to take a breather as your free in-game currency replenishes.

BOTTOM LINE A cool Nordic fantasy game.