# Alien Core vs Backyard Dash

The clearest difference is ads: Backyard Dash at none against Alien Core's shown. Backyard Dash also leads on update cadence (every 6 days vs monthly). On price, review sentiment, in-app purchases and monetization model there is nothing between them.

Both are free to download. Alien Core sells 7 one-off in-app purchases and Backyard Dash sells 5 one-off in-app purchases. Whichever you choose, the download price is not the number that matters.

Alien Core ships an update monthly, Backyard Dash every 6 days. The most recent releases landed on October 10, 2026 and October 24, 2026 respectively.

## The numbers

| Metric | Alien Core | Backyard Dash |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Price | Free | Free |
| Rating | — | **[5.0 (8 ratings)](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/backyard-dash/id6743473036/reviews)** |
| Number of ratings | — | **8** |
| Positive reviews | 100.0% of reviews | 100.0% of reviews |
| In-app purchases | Yes | Yes |
| Ads | Yes | **No** |
| Update frequency | Monthly | **Every 6 days** |
| Monetization | Free with in-app purchases | Free with in-app purchases |
| Size | 18 MB | 173 MB |
| Requires iOS | 13.0 | 13.0 |
| Devices | iPhone, iPad, iPod | iPhone, iPad, iPod |
| Age rating | 4+ | 4+ |
| Developer | [Sunrise Intelligence UG](https://appshunter.io/developer/1562727794) | [John Frith](https://appshunter.io/developer/1803073897) |

## What reviewers say

### Alien Core

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/alien-core-galaxy-invasion/id6575386825)

Pilot advanced starships in a retro-futuristic arcade shooter to battle a rogue AI and its empire. Experience classic 2D gameplay with modern effects, RPG-like ship upgrades, and multiple game modes.

**Highlights:** Retro-futuristic ASCII visuals with modern effects, Omnidirectional free movement, Story and Endless Arcade modes, Chain-reaction destruction mechanic, Unlockable spaceships and worlds, Ship upgrades and power-ups, Boss battles and adjustable difficulty

**Features:** macOS Compatibility, Family Sharing

**In-app purchases (7)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Starship YT 1300 | $0.99 | one-time |
| Starship Talon | $0.99 | one-time |
| Starship Bird of Prey | $0.99 | one-time |
| Starship Arcade II | $1.95 | one-time |
| Starship N-22 Ravenous | $1.99 | one-time |
| Story Mode | $2.99 | one-time |
| No Ads | $3.99 | one-time |


### Backyard Dash

[App page](https://appshunter.io/ios/app/backyard-dash/id6743473036)

Dash through procedurally generated backyards, collecting cash while being chased by a relentless lawn mower enthusiast. This fast-paced endless runner offers chaotic fun with a comedic twist, featuring vibrant graphics and an upbeat soundtrack.

**Highlights:** Endless backyard gauntlet with unique layouts, Collect 3D dollar bills for score and achievements, Big Larry chase with humorous one-liners, Bright, exaggerated suburban visual style, Cartoonish yet detailed graphics, Upbeat rock music soundtrack

**Features:** macOS Compatibility

**In-app purchases (5)**

| Purchase | Price | Billing |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Wallet | $0.99 | one-time |
| Color Wheel | $0.99 | one-time |
| Leaf Blower | $1.99 | one-time |
| No Ads | $1.99 | one-time |
| Savings Account | $4.99 | one-time |


## Frequently asked questions

### Is Alien Core free?

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

### Is Backyard Dash free?

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

### Do Alien Core or Backyard Dash have ads?

Alien Core shows ads; Backyard Dash does not.

### Which is updated more often, Alien Core or Backyard Dash?

Alien Core ships an update monthly, and Backyard Dash every 6 days. Most recently, Alien Core was updated on October 10, 2026 and Backyard Dash on October 24, 2026.

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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.*
