We first reported on the official mobile version of Minecraft way back in September, when it was an Android exclusive. This week the block-building phenomenon finally made the leap to iPad and iPhone, and potentially to the single largest audience the game has ever had. So what on earth are we/they/you going to make of it? Put down that lump of granite for a minute, and let’s find out.

How does it play?

Just like the Android version, it’s a dramatically scaled-down version of the original Minecraft. Placed on a randomly generated land mass, players can sculpt and mould the surrounding area using two simple commands – demolish and build.

You’re presented with 36 elements – items like wood or stone or brick – in abundant supply, which you can deploy to your hearts desire. Want to build a network of subterranean tunnels where you play hide and seek? Go ahead. A scale replica of the Castle Grayskull? Knock yourself out.

How about a gigantic “SORRY!” spelt out in flowers, which you can show to your loved one with a sheepish grin as they moan about all the time you’ve spent playing Minecraft? You can do that, too (though it won’t work).

Unfortunately, just like the Android version, Minecraft – Pocket Edition is missing a couple of key features. It doesn’t have the survival mode, for starters. In the original game, you work according to a day/night cycle; when night falls, you must protect yourself against unseen predators using fire and gumption.

Without it, Minecraft – Pocket Edition is essentially an empty sandbox. The satisfaction comes from building and sharing your creations with your fellow minecrafters via local wireless multiplayer. Which is fine to an extent, but players are only getting half the experience.

Why do we like it?

It’s Minecraft, it’s mobile, and it’s on a touchscreen device. Why wouldn’t we like it?

For some, the notion of building a virtual world, brick by brick, is an irresistible challenge. Others may quickly grow bored and move on. But if you stick it out, there’re plenty of wonders to be discovered, many of them of your own making.

Developed by Mojang, the same team behind the non-pocket edition, this is an official spinoff. That means further development should ensure that new features and refinements – like the survival mode – will be added in the very near future.

Minecraft – Pocket Edition is available now on the App Store for both iPhone and iPad, £4.99