Well, I got him and I've tested it myself: http://tinypic.com/view.php?pic=2yxhtop&s=8#.VK0ozNkazCR
Anyways, the first hit for a モンスト 半蔵 SS search:
http://monst-blog.com/fukube-hanzo-11094
敵からのレーザー、ホーミング弾はもちろんですが、 ダメージウォールや地雷からのダメージも受けなくなります。
looks pretty nice, even has bloody animations which MS lacks.
https://apps.qoo-app.com/en/app/5052
unfortunately it looks like all units are anime humans, more so waifus. meh.
You can get it at APK Pure.
Direct link to game's page, I recommend getting the app though so it's easier to update.
Idk what new apk you're talking about, unless you count 5.1.1 as a new apk. It was released December 8th. Anyway here is the link for it:
https://apkpure.com/monster-strike/jp.co.mixi.monsterstrikeUS
I switched to Crash Fever
https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.wonderplanet.CrashFever
It's alot like MS in many ways, but you don't sling your units. Gameplay is still skill based though.
Local means they have to be physically near you.
If you're playing the Japanese version, you can invite friends via LINE to play. You can also use apps that post the LINE invite publicly, so other users with the same app can join. Note that the game is not compatible across different regions.
iOS (not sure what's good for iOS, there are dozens of alternatives)
Sure, I'll add you soon!
Also, for the BBS, I use this app. https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=jp.co.spiritek.monstmulti
I think iOS has the same app somewhere. It's a bit confusing to use, but you'll understand it somehow. Maybe someday, I'll translate it for people here so they can understand how to use it.