We'd be hard-pressed to think of a game that sucked away more of our spare moments in the last year than Tiny Wings ($0.99, iPhone), an adorably simple one-touch offering that challenges you to build momentum while sliding down hills and being flung upwards into the sky. Actually, now that we think about it, where's an iPad version?

Pulse: Volume One ($2.99, iPad) redefines rhythmic gaming on the iPad, letting you interact with several original compositions by tapping the beats on the bull's eye with each passing note. Beautiful tracks and alluring visual flourishes help make a huge impression with this one.

Rather than race other competitors, you're only facing down the clock in Forever Drive (Free, universal), a top-down driving game set in futuristic, Tron-like cities. It might feel a little aimless at first, but you'll need skill and tenacity to push further in each attempt, and the aesthetics are top-notch for a free-to-play offering.

No iOS original embodied the term "one of a kind" in 2011 like Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP ($4.99, universal), which wraps you up in fantastic pixel artwork and memorable tunes while taxing your brain with a mix of puzzles and observational challenges, plus occasional action sequences.

Perfect for both kids and adults, Where's My Water? ($0.99, universal) puts touchscreens to perfect use by letting you clear a path for water, chemicals, and more by simply rubbing away the dirt. It's easily grasped, but lightly brainy enough to require precise planning and actions to nab all the stars.

If there's a more heartwarming game on the App Store than Bumpy Road ($2.99, universal), we haven't seen it. Designed as a look back on an elderly couple's youthful courtship and the years that followed, this leisurely drive lets you collect icons and unlock memories all while dazzling aesthetics fill your eyes and ears.

In real life, golf isn't for everyone; but iOS sensation Super Stickman Golf ($0.99, universal) proves a rousing and unexpectedly exciting experience every time. The switch to a 2D, side-scrolling approach makes it more of a physics-based platform game, while the amazing multiplayer battles emphasize speed for a wholly unique affair.

Contre Jour HD ($2.99, universal) made a big impact on our hearts and minds this year with stylish, Tim Burton-esque visuals and delicate piano backdrops, though it's hardly all looks and no substance. In fact, molding the environments and interacting with gadgets is quite satisfying, making this a total package for iOS gamers.

Free-to-play games are often criticized for not being very enjoyable offerings unless you spend some cash, but Tiny Tower (Free, universal) is the rare exception, letting you build up a thriving skyscraper full of businesses and apartments without dropping a dime. You can pay, of course, but it's plenty enjoyable without investment.

Gesundheit! ($1.99/iPhone, $2.99/iPad) admittedly sounds a bit gross on paper, what with your little green creature blowing wads of mucus from his nose to distract enemies and grab onto faraway items, but it's charmingly adorable all the same. Moreover, the hand-drawn look resembles a children's storybook to great effect.