Ember Vanguard

Ember Vanguard takes the standard maze-and-tower formula and adds height. Towers on ridges see farther, choke points funnel enemies into overlapping fire, and suddenly every map becomes a little geometry problem. It's the rare mobile TD that made me pause and plan.

The upgrade tree is generous without being confusing. You unlock branches slowly enough that each choice feels weighty, and respecs are cheap, so experimenting never feels punished. Later waves throw mixed enemy types at you and force real adaptation.

What we liked

• Elevation changes your whole plan
• Fair, readable upgrade tree
• Difficulty ramps without cheap spikes