When someone says their game is for free, there's always going to be a catch - either it's merely a demo for something larger, or there are multiple strings attached in an effort to guide you towards their In-App Purchase store. While the former is something we're used to, the latter is still a sore point for many gamers as developers often strip back their game, holding back gameplay behind artificial walls (often through extended waiting periods).

Middle Manager of Justice by Double Fine and Dracogen still holds to the tried-and-true management style of gameplay, but while waiting can be involved, the game does something special - it remembers your progress, allowing you to change what you're doing at a moment's notice.

Such a simple thing turns out to be a boon for the free title as you're always swamped with goals to complete. Some of the heroes in your organization may need a rest; others may need their moral picked up; while the rest could be training to take on harder thugs. Of course you can also take to the streets and dish out justice directly, but players with too much on their plate can also 'delegate' work, wasting a minute of time and letting the AI fight it out for you.

The real fun comes in taking control of the action directly by 'watching' the fight and activating special abilities, items, and 'Manager' abilities to turn the tide. You'll always have a battle or three to fight thanks to regularly spawning missions, and it's in your interest to completely them as soon as possible as the 'moral' of the city you're protecting will modify your modest income.

Having so much back and forth between turn-based combat and base building and management makes for a full experience, and one that only gets better as you bulk up your fighting force with new heroes, each with their own distinct skill set. Crush enough bad guys and you'll unlock a boss fight, granting access to new areas and potentially higher incomes.

Middle Manager of Justice is freemium done right - it's basic, but addictive thanks to its multitude of tiny, yet meaningful goals. Throwing cash at the IAP store isn't needed, and while it does provide some advantages, it won't ruin the challenge.

http://youtu.be/HsJOTYMZswkWhether you're strapped for cash or you need yet another insanely addictive management title, we recommend this game.