The graphics are beautiful whether you're playing on an iPhone or iPad.

When is a sequel more than just a sequel? When everything is so different it’s actually a whole new game in its own right -- and a much better one. If you were ever a fan of Elite or other space trading and exploration games, you’ll absolutely love Galaxy on Fire 2.

The graphics are sublime and incredibly fluid, and since it’s a universal app, you can play it natively on your iPhone, iPod touch, or iPad. You can control your ship with either a virtual controller or by using the accelerometer. The drawback of the latter is that you’ll have to recalibrate every time you launch your app again, but it’s a small inconvenience  for a much better flying experience.

Talk to as many people as you can to get new missions or discover many secrets.

The storyline involves mysterious aliens from the Void attacking Human and Vossk settlements, but it’s by no means the main thrust of the gameplay. Instead, think of it more as an introduction to the app’s underlying mechanisms. You’ll be taught how to mine asteroids, trade goods across solar systems, talk to characters to get new missions, upgrade your ship and equipment, discover hidden systems, build advanced technology, and of course fight enemy ships.

Once the storyline is complete (and it doesn’t take that long to finish it), you’re left with dozens of planets to explore. This can include uncovering more hidden systems and blueprints of unique equipment, or you can just wander, trade, and fight your way to riches. The choice is yours.

The bottom line. This game has hours of gameplay, and the beautiful scenery is just icing on the cake. Plus, a major expansion pack is planned for late April that will expand the storyline and provide tons more gameplay.

Although not huge, the number of systems you can explore is enough to keep you busy for hours.