Tiny Wings 2 flaps into the App Store

In Tiny Wings' new Flight School mode, you race against three AI-controlled birds.

(Credit: Screenshot by Rick Broida/CNET)

Last year, Andreas Illiger's Tiny Wings came out of nowhere to challenge the likes of Angry Birds and Fruit Ninja for App Store dominance.

Since then, legions of fans have been waiting for the inevitable sequel -- and their patience has finally paid off. Tiny Wings 2.0 ($0.99) has arrived, but it's not exactly a sequel. Instead, it's an expanded version of the original -- and a free update for those who already own it.

The core game remains the same. An adorable little bird slowly propels himself across the hills and valleys of the various islands that serve as the game's levels. The only "control" is your finger, which you tap and hold when he's sliding down a hill and release on the upturn. Time it right and the little birdie soars skyward.

The goal is to time your taps and holds to achieve maximum velocity, thereby staying ahead of the impending sunset. It's simple, engaging fun.

Version 2.0 adds Flight School, a new mode of play that's essentially a race: You must outrun (make that outfly) three... [Read more]