# Decode the Code vs Oxytone

The clearest difference is ads: Oxytone at none against Decode the Code's shown. Oxytone also leads on update cadence (every 3 weeks vs every 2 months) and ratings volume (97 vs 14). Decode the Code's advantage is review sentiment (100% vs 75%) and rating (4.7 vs 4.5). On price, in-app purchases, monetization model and device support there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. Decode the Code sells 5 one-off in-app purchases and Oxytone sells 1 one-off in-app purchase. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

Decode the Code holds the better App Store score, 4.7 against 4.5. That said, the two scores are not equally well evidenced: Oxytone has 97 ratings behind it against 14, so its average is the more settled of the two. Written reviews point the same way: 100% of Decode the Code's written reviews are positive against 75% of Oxytone's.

Decode the Code ships an update every 2 months, Oxytone every 3 weeks. The most recent releases landed on October 2, 2026 and September 26, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Decode the Code | Oxytone |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | **[4.7 (14 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/decode-the-code/id1421984663/reviews)** | [4.5 (97 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/oxytone/id1673677183/reviews) |
| Number of ratings | 14 | **97** |
| Positive reviews | **100.0% of reviews** | 75.4% of reviews |
| In-app purchases | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | Yes | **No** |
| Update frequency | Every 2 months | **Every 3 weeks** |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | Free with in-app purchases |
| Size | 160 MB | 157 MB |
| Requires iOS | 15.0 | **12.0** |
| Devices | iPhone, iPod | **iPhone, iPad, iPod** |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Square Lion LLC](https://appshunter.io/developer/1222755999) | [OxGames Kamil Wdowczyk](https://appshunter.io/developer/1673677185) |

## What reviewers say

### Decode the Code

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/decode-the-code/id1421984663)

A puzzle game inspired by a classic board game where players guess a hidden code in limited attempts. Earn in-game currency to unlock new content and challenge yourself with harder modes. Track your progress and compare it with friends.

**Highlights:** Code-breaking gameplay, Unlockable content packs, Hard Mode challenges, Stats tracking, Friend comparisons, Limited-time packs

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Family Sharing, Vision Pro support

**In-app purchases (5)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| 10 Coins | $0.99 | one-time |
| Remove Ads | $0.99 | one-time |
| Special Pack | $0.99 | one-time |
| 55 Coins | $4.99 | one-time |
| 120 Coins | $9.99 | one-time |


### Oxytone

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/oxytone/id1673677183)

Embark on a unique puzzle adventure designed for relaxation and mental exploration. Master strategic tile placement to create long paths and impressive combinations, with 99 challenges and unlockable themes for a deep, engaging experience.

**Highlights:** Unique puzzle adventure, Tranquil escape, 99 challenges, Unlockable colorful themes, 12 meticulously designed maps, Strategic tile placement, Immersive sound design

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Family Sharing

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Full version | $5.99 | one-time |

**What reviewers like**

- 🎨 Beautiful graphics and visual design
- 🎵 Soothing music and sound effects
- 😌 Relaxing and meditative gameplay
- 🧩 Engaging puzzle mechanics requiring strategy
- 🚫 No ads or intrusive monetization

**What reviewers complain about**

- ❓ Unclear game objectives and lack of instructions
- 🔄 Game progress lost when switching apps
- 👁️ Strains eyesight during extended play
- ⏱️ Excessive menu navigation between games
- 📸 Cannot screenshot or view completed puzzles

**Reported bugs**

- Game crashes and refuses to reopen
- Progress lost when leaving app mid-game
- Achievement unlock not triggering (Quick Mode)
- Trophy not awarded for completed challenges
- Freezing on iPad Pro, especially with Apple Pencil

**Requested features**

- Tutorial or instructional videos explaining gameplay
- Ability to save mid-game progress
- Quick replay/restart button without menu navigation
- Zoom out feature to see more of the board
- Replay functionality to review completed puzzles


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Decode the Code free?

Decode the Code is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Is Oxytone free?

Oxytone is free to download, with in-app purchases available.

### Which has better reviews, Decode the Code or Oxytone?

Decode the Code is rated higher. Decode the Code averages 4.7 out of 5 from 14 ratings, while Oxytone averages 4.5 from 97 ratings.

### Do Decode the Code or Oxytone have ads?

Decode the Code shows ads; Oxytone does not.

### Which is updated more often, Decode the Code or Oxytone?

Decode the Code ships an update every 2 months, and Oxytone every 3 weeks. Most recently, Decode the Code was updated on October 2, 2026 and Oxytone on September 26, 2026.

---

*Compared by [AppsHunter](https://appshunter.io/) from daily US App Store data. Review summaries are generated from verbatim App Store reviews.*