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Jetpack Joyride adds new features to help you go the distance

One of the best distance/survival games for iOS just received a huge update and I recommend both fans and those new to the game check it out.

Jason Parker Senior Editor / Reviews - Software
Jason Parker has been at CNET for nearly 15 years. He is the senior editor in charge of iOS software and has become an expert reviewer of the software that runs on each new Apple device. He now spends most of his time covering Apple iOS releases and third-party apps.
Jason Parker
2 min read
Jetpack Joyride
New gadgets in Jetpack Joyride include items like the X-ray specs (green glasses) and the Gravity Belt. Screenshot by Jason Parker/CNET

Jetpack Joyride (Free), from Halfbrick Studios, makers of hit iOS games Fruit Ninja and Monster Dash, has now added Gadgets -- tools you can purchase with earned coins that help you get further into the game.

Now, when you go into the Stash (the store where you can buy new jetpacks, outfits, and more), there is a new Gadgets category. There are a total of 15 gadgets to choose from (once purchased with earned coins), but you only have 2 slots on any given run. Each of the new gadgets have specific properties that help you on your run. For example, you can use the Air Barrys gadget that make Barry Steakfries jump higher on first touch, making it easier to jump over low obstacles. A Gravity Belt makes you fall faster, helping you get out of the way of obstacles higher in the air. The Free Ride gadget lets you choose a vehicle before you even start your run. Many of the gadgets are useful and some are just plain silly, but the ability to mix and match will definitely add to replayability as you figure out the best combination to go the distance.

Jetpack Joyride
There are 15 new gadgets to choose from, but you'll have to buy two from each category to unlock the next. Screenshot by Jason Parker/CNET

HalfBrick Studios says that after only 6 months on the iTunes App Store, 17 million people have bought and/or downloaded Jetpack Joyride, and there's no end in sight to frequent free updates. The app went free some time ago and continues to be a hit for iOS gamers.

Jetpack Joyride has been a mainstay on my homescreen since launch, so it's easy for me to recommend this game even without the big update, but if you want to see how fun a distance/survival game can be, this is the one to download.