With the massive popularity of any particular device, you can expect that a range of peripherals will be released to target its large consumer base. Case in point, the ever-popular iPhone and the appBlaster gun add-on.

The appBlaster is compatible with the iPhone 4 and fourth-generation iPod touch by way of a couple of different inserts that hold your respective Apple device to convert it into a digital shooting gallery. appBlaster light enough to be used by anyone and it’s a surprisingly sturdy device to hold, despite the cheap plastic look.

An extendable stock can be inserted into the appBlaster for that extra authentic feel, but it’s a little short for fully developed arms (read: adults) and will result in an awkward holding position if used by those who don’t have childlike limbs. The sole purpose of the appBlaster is to allow a more authentic shooting gallery experience for a handful of supported titles. But therein lays the rub.

At $49.95 RRP a pop, that’s a wee too much to fork out for a peripheral that’s currently limited to four compatible titles. While other apps are currently in development, only one of them is free. The free game, apptoyz Alien Invasion, is a fun enough distraction for short periods of play (then again, most apps are like that), but is not without its own drawbacks.

While the free game offers a full 360-degree augmented-reality-overlay shooting gallery experience that you can play anywhere, my high score potential was limited by the responsiveness of my iPhone 4’s rear camera. It works well for smaller movements, but when you have to perform a 180-degree turn to attack enemies behind you, the screen blurring and time it takes to refocus can be detrimental to any attempts at a decent score.

To add paid insult to injury, the other four compatible apps are premium items, meaning you’ll have to crack out the credit card to give them a burl. Granted, forking out a few bucks for an app isn’t exactly going to break your gaming budget but, considering the appBlaster’s price, it seems like these should have been complimentary (or, at the very least, unlockable with a code for those that purchase the peripheral).

At the end of the day, the appBlaster isn’t terrible, but it’s difficult to recommend it to anyone but the most adamant of iGadget gamers. Considering how the peripheral essentially nullifies the whole point of mobile gaming—unless you’re comfortable with swinging one of these around in public—the chances are good that you have many more gaming options in your home already.