Howzat

Even if you’re not into cricket, chances are you’ve been out to bat in one of the many variations of Stick Cricket since the fi rst web browser version came out in 2006. Though it’s been available on Android and iOS for a while, Microsoft is pushing it as a drawcard launching on the Windows 10 for Mobile platform. The game’s actually compatible with Windows Phone 8.1 and up, so there’s no need to wait for the new smartphone OS to launch here. Stick Cricket Premier League might trick you into thinking that this game is simple — the only controls are a left and right shot — but the bowlers get progressively slower and somehow that actually makes hitting the ball exceptionally hard. The base app is free, but in order to build your own team with decent players you’re going to have to fork out for some in-app purchases, of which there are many — something to be cautious of if kids are playing. Other than that, it’s a worthwhile app for Windows Phone.