Sometimes it's nice to keep things simple and elegant; no strings attached, just a game you can casually chip away at while passing the time. Pool Bar HD by Future Games of London is just that, a simple no frills Pool simulator. But don't be fooled, they haven't skimped on the details that count and by all means this is a truly gorgeous game to play.

Once you've selected from the available 9 Ball, US 8 Ball and UK 8 Ball variants you're placed behind a cue and can slowly but surely chip away at the table against your random opponent. Swiping the screen will modify the angle of your shot and tapping the cue ball allows you to add spin. Once things are lined up all you have to do is drag the cue stick back and swipe up to set things in motion. Both the aiming and striking lack fine controls, which can get frustrating for those with a competitive streak, but for those keeping it simple it gets the job done more often than not.

The interface is kept to a minimum, with only the 'next ball', 'pause' and 'camera' buttons visible, leaving plenty of room for you to take in the game's detailed 3D bar room setting. It's a bit odd to hear idle background chatter with no-one in the room and it would be nice to turn off the background sfx, but the iPod is supported for custom playlists.

If all you're after is a relaxing, no-frills Pools game, Pool Bar HD delivers in spades, but for those after more value in their titles it may prove a somewhat disappointing.