Sightings of the Mac OS X 10.5 Leopard developer release build reports are trickling in and according to those who have seen it, the cool cat carries some very interesting performance numbers. The Leopard is said to be fundamentally superior to previous versions of Mac OS X. Among the features spotted were the MacLeopards user interface which has pushed the Aqua, Quartz and Finder technology further than the Jaguar and the Tiger.

Almost all "brushed metal" theme were reportedtly replaced with a sleeker, better-contrasting theme that bears some similarities to the appearance of the current Mail.app. However, several layers of the theme design and rendering engine changes create a remarkably high-resolution and a rich look. Reportedly, a quick first glance at the MacLeopard is enough to tell the user that "This OS is a big step forward."

Make that one big pounce forward.

iConquer is a strategy game of world conquest for the Mac OS X. The goal of the game is to invade every country on the map by getting rid of all who stand in your way! iConquer comes with a great variety of maps, and it is even possible to make maps based on make-believe Earth. It can be played by two people but the computer's fierce Artificial Intelligence personalities make worthy opponents as well.

iConquer is a feast for the eyes as well as the brain! Because it's one of the first games designed specifically for Mac OS X, it takes full advantage of the Aqua user interface. The game's graphical refinement includes drop shadows, transparency, sheets, drawers, and more!

iConquer is available for $19.99 but you can also download the free trial version for test driving.

Download: [iConquer Trial Version]