By Hayley Tsukayama
Memrise
Learning a language is an intense process, but there are (thankfully) lots of apps out there to help. Memrise draws on a community of language learners and native speakers to create its courses. The app essentially takes over the role of the old-fashioned flash card and helps users build vocabulary. Settings within the app let you decide how much study you want to undertake at a time, and quizzes you accordingly.
The app offers more than 200 languages, but the quality varies depending on the chosen course. Some, for example, have recorded pronunciations, while others are read-only. Depending on what you want to learn, an app with a more consistent curriculum such as Duolingo may better fit your needs. But if you're looking for something quick and effective to help you memorize words, give Memrise a shot.
Free, for iOS and Android devices.
Minecraft: Story Mode
In Minecraft: Story Mode, players are swept into the sprawling, charming world of Minecraft - but this time with a mission. That might sound odd to longtime fans of the game. Minecraft is known for being a completely open world - no plotline is sort of its appeal. But somehow, Minecraft made it work. The game provides a fun, slice-of-life tale that doesn't overwrite stories players might have imagined. You have lots of options for plot customization.Even the protagonist, Jesse, can be male or female.
Minecraft: Story Mode should appeal to fans of the main game, although some cartoonish violence and jokes have earned a 10+ rating on Google's Play Marketplace. It's designed to run best on newer devices, such as the iPhone 5 or later. Also of note: The first episode is out now, and developers will release more over time - so be prepared to sink additional money into the title if you get hooked.
It's $5, for iOS and Android devices.
The Washington Post
