Ubisoft leaps back onto iOS with iPad action-puzzler Monster Burner

Ubisoft's history with mobile games - notably iOS - has been tempered over the years by its relationship with mobile-focused brother organisation Gameloft.

The companies are each run by two of Guillemot brothers, with Gameloft typically 'licensing' Ubisoft titles for mobile deployment.

Even when Ubisoft did decide to get into iOS 18 months ago, the result wasn't too positive, with sales of Assassin's Creed II described as being not as profitable as the company has expected.

However, with the social mobile explosion in full effect across the industry, Ubisoft is committed to another attempt; something it will be revealing in a digital game showcase event at the end of October.

But, before then, it's releasing its first game Monster Burner.

Specifically designed for iPad, it's a mixture of arcade action with some light puzzle elements, as you defend your castles from waves of monsters.

This you do by tapping on the screen to generate a fireball - the longer you hold, the more powerful - then flicking the ball up the screen to immolate the incoming hordes.

You can bounce fireballs off the sides of the screen: of course you gain bonuses for multiple hits, with your defeated foes dropping coins and mana refills (this is required to generate your fireballs).

The coins are used as you buy better spells, including walls of fire, or area weapons in between levels.

Sociability is obviously a key part of the experience, with leaderboards, Facebook and Twitter included.

In fact, you'll see your friends' avatars appearing within the enemy waves when you beat their scores on each level - sort of similar to the meme in games such as Doodle Jump.

Interestingly, Ubisoft has also included a Children's mode, which offers simpler challenges.

The game, which was developed in Ubisoft Montreal and is being launched in conjunction with French mobile publisher Bulkypix, will be available on November 3rd for iPad, priced $3.99.