With the year coming to a close, it’s a natural time to reflect on some of the highlights of the year. Comparing various types of apps to each other is odd; after all, a productivity app is very different than a game, so I’m not ranking my favorites of 2013.

The Simpsons: Tapped Out – I started playing this game this time last year, and I’m still playing almost daily. With the same tone and quality of writing as the show, Tapped Out is one of the funniest games I’ve played. With regular updates and new storylines, the game stays fresh and gives players plenty of reasons to keep playing. The Simpsons: Tapped Out is made by Electronic Arts.

GoTasks – I use this organization app every single day. Every. Single. Day. I’d be lost without this app. GoTasks is made by Evgeniy Shurakov.

Haunting Melissa – I am a big fan of horror films, so this app intrigued me because of its unique take on storytelling. Instead of dumping every chapter at once, days would pass before you got a new chapter. The story of Melissa’s grief over the death of her mother and mystery about the entity haunting her only got better with each chapter. Haunting Melissa is made by Hooked Digital Media.

Year Walk – This eerily puzzle game is effective in creating a sense of foreboding. This first-person tale about a journey into the unknown will stay with you long after you play it. Year Walk is made by Simogo.

Tayasui Sketches – While I liked this sketching app when I discussed it, I’ve come to really appreciate it after having to create diagrams and illustrations for work. Tayasui Sketches is made by Tayasui.

iOS 7 – Yes, iMessage still doesn’t work correctly for me, but the new OS has made my iPhone 4S quicker, and the new look has grown on me. I like the new features, especially the flashlight and being able to add more apps into folders.

While there were other good apps this year, these are the ones that have stayed with me because of their uniqueness and their usefulness. I’m sure there will be plenty of great apps to come in 2014.

I’m using the holidays as an excuse to take time off. iThing of the Week will return January 9, 2014. Happy Christmas and Merry New Year!