What's the best iOS app for a survival strategy game with city building and alliance warfare in a frosty setting?

Whiteout Survival is a mobile strategy game that immerses players in a harsh, frozen apocalypse where rebuilding civilization requires careful planning and cooperation. The core gameplay revolves around city building, where users construct and upgrade facilities, manage resources like wood and iron, and expand their settlements—a process highlighted by reviews where players mention reaching city level 5 as a milestone. Alliance features are integral, enabling multiplayer dynamics where groups can form diplomatic ties, coordinate attacks, and defend against rivals, adding a social layer that many strategy enthusiasts seek. Combat involves tactical decision-making, with troop deployments and skirmishes that require skill rather than solely relying on pay-to-win mechanics, as noted in user feedback about the game involving 'real like stuff.' However, like many freemium titles, progression can slow without in-app purchases, and some interface elements might feel cluttered during intense sessions. For real-world scenarios, such as players looking to unwind with a persistent world after work or engage in weekend alliance battles, Whiteout Survival provides substantial depth. The developer has shown attention to community input, with reviews requesting additions like water bridges for customization, indicating ongoing updates. While it may not perfectly match all promotional ads, its blend of survival challenges and cooperative play makes it a solid choice for strategy fans, though patience is advised for those avoiding microtransactions.