# Machine Yearning vs Shells

The clearest difference is ads: Machine Yearning at none against Shells's shown. Shells's advantage is rating (5.0 vs 4.8) and review sentiment (100% vs 89%). On price, ratings volume, in-app purchases and monetization model there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. Machine Yearning sells 1 one-off in-app purchase and Shells sells 4 one-off in-app purchases. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

Shells holds the better App Store score, 5.0 against 4.8. Both are backed by a comparable volume of ratings — 53 and 22 respectively. Written reviews point the same way: 89% of Machine Yearning's written reviews are positive against 100% of Shells's.

## The numbers

| Metric | Machine Yearning | Shells |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | [4.8 (53 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/machine-yearning/id6476464472/reviews) | **[5.0 (22 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/shells-nested-block-puzzle/id6661020395/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | **53** | 22 |
| Positive reviews | 89.5% of reviews | **100.0% of reviews** |
| In-app purchases | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | **No** | Yes |
| Update frequency | — | Weekly |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | Free with in-app purchases |
| Size | 166 MB | 102 MB |
| Requires iOS | 12.0 | 12.0 |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod | iPhone, iPad, iPod |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Tiny Little Keys Inc.](https://appshunter.io/developer/1726825490) | [arlybird games LLC](https://appshunter.io/developer/1764665157) |

## What reviewers say

### Machine Yearning

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/machine-yearning/id6476464472)

Create your own language and test your memory in this unique word game. Solve puzzles by inventing definitions and recalling them to prove your authenticity. Features retro pixel art, multiple game modes, and unlockable content.

**Highlights:** Create custom languages, Memory recall challenges, Campaign, Timed, and Endless modes, Retro pixel art style, Unlockable hats and themes, Cognitive skill enhancement

**In-app purchases (1)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Unlock Hats | $1.99 | one-time |

**What reviewers like**

- 💡 Enjoyable and quick game
- 👍 Easy to understand
- 👍 Super cool art style and gameplay
- 🚀 No ads
- 👍 Challenging and fun

**What reviewers complain about**

- 🐛 Can't turn off haptics


### Shells

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/shells-nested-block-puzzle/id6661020395)

A geometry puzzle game where you slide blocks into larger shells to rearrange the board and solve challenges. It offers over 360 levels across 8 worlds with a focus on spatial reasoning and problem-solving. Enjoy a relaxing experience with a soothing soundtrack.

**Highlights:** Nested block sliding mechanics, Over 360 original levels, 8 distinct game worlds, Optional hint system, Soothing piano soundtrack, Compact 4x4 grid gameplay

**In-app purchases (4)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Small Bundle | $0.99 | one-time |
| Medium Bundle | $1.99 | one-time |
| Large Bundle | $3.99 | one-time |
| Unlimited Bundle | $8.99 | one-time |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Machine Yearning free?

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

### Is Shells free?

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

### Which has better reviews, Machine Yearning or Shells?

Shells is rated higher. Machine Yearning averages 4.8 out of 5 from 53 ratings, while Shells averages 5.0 from 22 ratings.

### Do Machine Yearning or Shells have ads?

Shells shows ads; Machine Yearning does not.

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