Our Android phones can be used for so many things — from connecting with friends on social media to video-calling faraway family members and getting remote work done. More importantly, your Android phone is a fantastic portal to a world of countless Android games that outclass even the best iPhone games.
Want to rise to the top of the multiplayer leaderboards in a first-person shooter? Looking for an in-depth RPG to sink countless hours into? What about a relaxing story-driven title? Whatever you’re searching for, there’s something just for you on the Google Play Store. But which games are the best? It’s a daunting question, but one we’re determined to answer. Here are our picks for more than 30 of the best Android games you can play in 2025.
Make sure to check out these helpful guides: best Android apps, best iPhone apps
Rocket League Sideswipe
71%
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Sport, Strategy
Developer
Psyonix
Publisher
Psyonix
Release
November 15, 2021
One of the best mobile ports out there, Rocket League Sideswipe is also one of the most satisfying 2D games that we’ve played in the past few years. This fantastic free game captures all the charm of the original, which means you still have to furiously ram cars against a giant ball to taste sweet, sweet victory in this car-fueled soccer frenzy. The floating movement physics in the game will really test your maneuver timing and dodging skills, the neon-filled visuals are eye candy, and the soundtrack is worth enjoying on its own. The controls are joyfully responsive, and whether you’re engaged in a 1v1 or 2vs2 duel, you won’t find yourself bored at any point in the game. Rocket League Sideswipe is an absolute blast, and if you have a controller lying around, then it’s even better.
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Platform, Adventure
Developer
Konami
Publisher
Konami
Release
March 03, 2020
Metroidvanias are a perfect fit for Android, so it only makes sense to play the game that invented the genre. Symphony of the Night stars Alucard as he explores the deadly and unpredictable castle. The pixel art looks amazing on an Android screen, and the controls are simple enough to be usable with the touchscreen if you don’t have a controller handy. If you haven’t played this iconic and legendary game, there’s no excuse now that you can play it anywhere.
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder's Revenge
78%
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Indie, Arcade
Developer
Tribute Games
Publisher
Netflix, DotEmu
Release
June 16, 2022
It sounds odd to even imagine that Netflix, a video streaming service, could offer a game as enjoyable as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Shredder’s Revenge. The game is a Netflix exclusive, which means you need to be a Netflix subscriber in order to be able to enjoy it. The retro beat ’em up has beautiful, fast-paced combat with rewarding action, and the best part is that it works amazingly well with touchscreen controls on a phone. The pixel art is a breath of fresh air in this brawler, levels are short and sweet, and there’s just the right amount of grind that keeps it tightly within the realms of a casual pick-up-and-play game.
Wordsmyth
Platforms
Mac, Android, iOS
Genre
Puzzle
Release
February 14, 2021
Billing itself as “Boggle — relaxed,” Wordsmyth is a zen-like version of the popular word game that’s part game, part mindfulness app. Yes, it’s basically Boggle, with a grid of letters to make words from. But unlike other high-pressure word games, there’s no timer here, so you can take as long as you like to come up with winning combos. With no penalty limits, gorgeously crafted visuals, and a meditative soundtrack, Wordsmyth is the relaxing word game you never knew you needed. So relaxing, in fact, that you could find yourself sinking more time into it than any other game on your phone.
ScourgeBringer
73%
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5
Genre
Fighting, Shooter, Platform, Adventure, Indie, Arcade
Developer
Flying Oak Games
Publisher
Dear Villagers, EastAsiaSoft, Plug In Digital
Release
October 20, 2020
From its retro graphics to its indie vibes, the fast-paced free-moving roguelite platformer ScourgeBringer is an absolute must-play on Android. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, you play as Kyhra, the deadliest warrior of her clan, out to take down ancient machines and seek redemption for humanity. Slash and shoot your way through ever-changing dungeons with the frantic combat system, collect mementos from past explorers to unlock secrets, and enjoy an otherwordly soundtrack that add up to make ScourgeBringer well worth the price of entry, and then some.
Genshin Impact
79%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
HoYoverse, Cognosphere, miHoYo
Publisher
HoYoverse, Cognosphere, miHoYo
Release
September 28, 2020
Genshin Impact is easily one of the most immersive and beautifully designed action role-playing games to ever grace a smartphone’s screen. And the fact that it’s free to play is simply astounding. Everything from the character design and story art to combat mechanics and the sheer worldbuilding hits way deeper than what you would expect from a mobile game. If you’re a fan of The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, the sense of familiarity will baffle you. The magical realm is weaved into its own original lore, each character is deeply unique, the action is rewarding, and even the cutscenes are top-notch. The only caveat is that if you truly want to enjoy the game in all its visual glory, you better have a high-end phone in your hands because this is one of the most demanding mobile games out there.
Zenless Zone Zero
67%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, PlayStation 5
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
HoYoverse, miHoYo
Publisher
HoYoverse, Cognosphere, miHoYo
Release
June 20, 2024
If the open-world RPG of Genshin Impact isn’t your style, give Zenless Zone Zero a shot. From the same developer, this title is far more action-focused and flashy. It has all the same gatcha elements but with a style and presentation all its own. The bite-sized nature of the missions and lack of downtime between fights make it a great option to pull out in transit or while waiting in line.
Marvel Snap
76%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS
Genre
Strategy, Card & Board Game
Developer
Second Dinner
Publisher
Nuverse Games
Release
October 18, 2022
Card games are a natural fit for Android, but even we weren’t expecting to love Marvel Snap as much as we do. This simple but deep deck-builder lets you construct a team of all your favorite superheroes that feel authentic to their individual powers. Matches are quick and satisfying, and it never takes too long to build or change up your deck if you want to try something new. It is also completely fair with no pay-to-win elements.
Dicey Dungeons
71%
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X|S
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Adventure, Indie, Card & Board Game
Developer
Terry Cavanagh
Publisher
Distractionware, Terry Cavanagh
Release
August 13, 2019
Whether you’ve played Dicey Dungeons on PC or not, now’s your chance to find out what it’s like to be a giant walking dice in this deck-building roguelite on Android. Yes, that’s kind of the plot here — you’re a dice thrown into a deadly dungeon packed with bizarre cartoonish enemies you must battle with dice rolls. Combat is turn-based and intense, there’s a superb deck-building system to help you level up and find better loot, and the game is never boring, with a huge variety of levels and skills to keep you entertained for months.
Repulze
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Racing
Publisher
Pixelbite
Release
January 03, 2013
Repulze is a futuristic, sci-fi-inspired racer where you’re the pilot of an experimental hovercraft. Fly along roller-coaster-like tracks at crazy speeds, beat time trials, and take on AI opponents alongside a cool sci-fi backstory of an evil corporation and synthetics. With seven hypersonic hovercraft to choose from and 24 thrilling tracks, there’s plenty of bang for your buck here. It takes a while to master the controls and tracks, but once you do, Repulze is an exhilarating ride.
Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp
60%
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Simulator
Developer
Nintendo EPD
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
October 25, 2017
This relaxing little sim lets you choose your own camper, cabin, or campsite and decorate it exactly how you want. Fill your camp with furniture that matches your style, and choose from over 1,000 pieces of furniture and more than 300 pieces of clothing and accessories. Along the way, you’ll meet over 100 animals, each with its own quirky personality. Fulfill tasks for them, and your friendship will grow. There are also seasonal events where you can carry out special tasks and collect themed items for your camp! Animal Crossing: Pocket Camp is free to play, but there are in-app purchases available, though you can easily disable these if younger children are playing.
Raid: Shadow Legends
22%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Strategy, Turn-based strategy (TBS)
Developer
Plarium Games
Publisher
Plarium Games
Release
July 29, 2018
Raid: Shadow Legends is one of the most popular dark-fantasy RPGs on Android. Set in the world of Teleria, you must recruit the forces of Light and Darkness to fight together to save the world. Choose from over 400 warriors and 14 playable factions, build up your team’s strength, and take on formidable foes. With epic boss battles, a PVP arena to challenge other teams, and a bastion to build and upgrade, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. The expansive map covers 12 sprawling locations to explore, all rendered in beautiful 3D artwork. If you’re into RPGs, you can’t afford to miss Raid: Shadow Legends.
Thimbleweed Park
80%
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Point-and-click, Puzzle, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Terrible Toybox
Publisher
Terrible Toybox
Release
March 30, 2017
Fans of Oxenfree and Stranger Things will love this game from the creators of Monkey Island and Maniac Mansion. Thimbleweed Park is a rundown town in the middle of nowhere, home to an abandoned circus, a burnt-out factory, and a haunted hotel. When five seemingly unconnected individuals find themselves drawn to the town, they discover they’re actually deeply connected — and somebody is watching. Will Franklin the ghost get to speak to his daughter again? Who is Agent Ray really working for? And how come nobody’s bothered about the body under the bridge? All these questions and more will be answered. This is a deeply engaging neo-noir mystery set in 1987, packed with humor, a twisting story, and satisfying puzzles. With five playable characters and two difficulty levels, do you dare enter Thimbleweed Park?
Diablo Immortal
36%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS
Genre
Role-playing (RPG)
Developer
Blizzard Entertainment
Publisher
Blizzard Entertainment
Release
June 02, 2022
Our first impressions of this newly released built-for-mobile game were that it’s “a PC or quality console release on a small screen.” We’d go so far as to say it’s better than Diablo, and you’re getting the full experience on mobile — that means a lengthy campaign, deep endgame, full voice acting, the works. Because it’s designed for mobile, activities and quests are bite-sized, making it easy to play on the go and progress quickly. It never feels too repetitive, and fans of the PC games will feel right at home with the core gameplay. Choose your class, slay mobs with special skills, collect tons of loot, and walk around the gorgeous maps from a top-down perspective. It feels a lot like Diablo 3 gameplay-wise, but you’ll notice you don’t need resources to use skills — instead, they operate on brief cooldowns, meaning faster-paced combat. If we had one negative to say, it’s that the excessive microtransactions may ruin the game for some. Still, whether you’re an existing Diablo fan or not, there’s lots to enjoy here.
Them Bombs!
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Puzzle, Simulator, Indie, Card & Board Game
Developer
Yellow Dot
Publisher
Yellow Dot
Release
May 30, 2018
If teamwork, adrenaline-fueled arguments, and yelling frantically at your friends sound like your idea of a good time, then Them Bombs is the co-op board game for you! There’s a bomb, or several, ticking away, and every second counts. You’re the Unlikely Hero, with the bomb visible on your screen, and must work with your friends (your Expert Team) to defuse it. The catch? Only they have access to the bomb defusing manual, and only you can see the bomb screen, so you need to communicate what you see, and in turn hope they’re savvy enough to instruct you on how to defuse that bomb before it’s too late! This game is fast-paced, addictive, and free to play — but be warned, you may end up arguing with those closest to you!
Stardew Valley
87%
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, Wii U, PlayStation Vita, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Simulator, Strategy, Adventure, Indie
Developer
ConcernedApe
Publisher
ConcernedApe, Chucklefish Games
Release
February 26, 2016
If you haven’t yet played Stardew Valley, where have you been? The hit farming RPG is on mobile, and it’s every bit as much fun as you remember — or fun for the first time. With over 50 hours of gameplay content, multiple control options, and loads of other mobile-specific features, this game is well worth the $5 entry fee. Build the farm of your dreams, raise happy animals tend, harvest, and sell your crops, befriend the villagers, and even meet that special someone. Stardew Valley is delightfully addictive and you’ll find yourself sinking many, many hours into the game once you get started.
Super Mario Run
67%
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Platform, Adventure, Arcade
Developer
Nintendo EPD
Publisher
Nintendo
Release
December 15, 2016
Unlike other Mario games, Super Mario Run is an auto-runner where Mario keeps running forward. Tap the screen to pull off wall jumps, spin in midair, and more as you run through 24 exciting levels to rescue Princess Peach from the clutches of Bowser. Choose how you want to play: Collect all the coins or compete against a friend for the highest score. Kingdom Builder mode lets you gather Toads and coins to build your own kingdom, and you can unlock three additional playable characters as you play, including Yoshi and Luigi. Super Mario Run is free to play, with in-app purchases to unlock some content.
Moncage
79%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, Legacy Cellphone, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Puzzle, Simulator, Strategy, Adventure, Indie, Card & Board Game
Developer
Optillusion
Publisher
X.D. Network Inc.
Release
November 16, 2021
Another puzzle game, this time with a twist: Everything takes place inside a mysterious cube. Each face of the cube is different, housing a unique world. It’s up to you to figure out how these scenes (literally) connect together. Along the way, there’s an intriguing story with a surprising twist, plus plenty of optical illusions. Unlock 15 achievements to earn Medals, and prepare to get stuck, as it’ll definitely happen. While you can get helpful hints, including Focus mode, which highlights key items, text hints, and video walkthroughs, there’s nothing quite as satisfying as that feeling of genius when you finally crack the puzzle yourself. Moncage is a quirky little puzzler that quickly becomes immersive and is well worth the price of entry.
Chrono Trigger
90%
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Role-playing (RPG), Adventure
Developer
Square Enix
Publisher
Square Enix
Release
December 08, 2011
One of the most iconic RPGs of all time is a must-play on your Android phone. The mobile port of Square Enix’s Chrono Trigger is based on the Nintendo DS version, and though the touch controls aren’t the best, it’s still worth your time. Developed by the creators of Final Fantasy, Dragon Ball, and Dragon Quest, Chrono Trigger is a time-traveling RPG that sees you play as the hero, Cronos, hurtling through time to save Marle, a young girl who has fallen into a rift created by a Telepod malfunction. The mobile version includes over 50 combos to take down enemies in battle, with higher-resolution graphics and an updated soundtrack — and also features the Dimensional Vortex and Lost Sanctum dungeons.
Pokémon Unite
69%
Platforms
Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Strategy, MOBA
Developer
Timi, Tencent Games
Publisher
The Pokémon Company
Release
July 20, 2021
Pokémon Unite is a 5-on-5 team battle where you team up with friends and other players from around the world to see who can score the most points. Working together to beat the other team is key, and you can communicate with your team through quick chat messages, signals, and voice chat. Ensure your Pokémon are stylish and ready for battle in a variety of Holowear, then take on the other team in Unite Battles, where you can use Unite Moves, all-new Pokémon moves only available during these battles. As your skills improve, battle in ranked matches to top the leaderboard. Pokémon Unite is free to play and cross-platform, so you can play with friends on mobile or Switch.
The Escapists: Prison Escape
Platforms
iOS
Genre
Strategy
Release
March 02, 2017
This prison escape sandbox game is hours of strategic fun — if you’re into that sort of thing. You’ve done the crime, now you’re doing the time. Speaking of which, the time has come to plan your escape. Swipe useful objects from guards, craft tools to aid your escape, and get to know your fellow inmates to create your own gang. Whatever you do, stay two steps ahead of the guards at all times, keep your head down, hide your contraband, and don’t forget to attend roll-call! This is an addictive, tense game that’s easy enough to get stuck in but provides a real challenge once you get going. There are over six themed prisons to escape and dozens of crafting combos to try out along the way.
Final Fantasy XV: Pocket Edition
72%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Fighting, Role-playing (RPG), Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
Square Enix Business Division 2
Publisher
Square Enix
Release
February 08, 2018
Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition is the 15th installment in the Final Fantasy series. This mobile version of the original console game divides the story into 10 chapters — you can play the first for free, with subsequent chapters available for purchase. Behind the cute animation lies a stunning soundtrack and a sprawling story that tells the tale of the Chosen King, Savior to the Star. The nations of Niflheim and Lucis have finally agreed to an armistice after years of fighting. Noctis, the crown prince of Lucis, is betrothed to Lady Lunafreya of Tenebrae, the youngest Oracle in history, as a symbol of this peace. The prince sets forth for his wedding on the eve of the signing ceremony, but unbeknown to him, many perils await him on his journey.
Tiny Room Stories: Town Mystery
61%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS
Genre
Point-and-click, Puzzle, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Kiary Games
Publisher
Kiary Games
Release
June 19, 2019
We all love a good mystery, and if you’re looking for an immersive puzzle app to take your mind off real life right now, Tiny Room Stories: Town Mystery does the job nicely. You play as a private investigator who, after receiving a mysterious letter from his father, must return to his hometown only to find it completely deserted. It’s up to you to find out what happened; discover clues; open locks; solve puzzles; and explore interactive, fully 3D levels along the way. This is one of the best detective story games available on Android — a cool blend of mystery and escape room. You’ll explore a variety of locations too, from ancient catacombs to downtown cityscapes.
Bloons TD 6
80%
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, visionOS
Genre
Strategy, Tactical
Developer
Ninja Kiwi
Publisher
Ninja Kiwi
Release
June 14, 2018
If you’re a fan of tower defense games, where bad guys invade your map around a predetermined route and you have to erect destructive towers to wipe them out before they kill you, then you owe it to yourself to buy Bloons TD 6. With a cute and chaotic cartoon art style and hordes of bizarre enemies, things can get seriously crazy. The depth of your choice in how to defend is unsurpassed with dozens of towers, each with its own upgrade trees to climb. To mix things up, there are other defensive units you can deploy that will patrol, and there are loads of challenges that give you specific objectives and earn you money when you complete them. There are also some in-app purchases, but there’s so much depth here that they’re easy to ignore, making this a great strategy game to pass the time with.
Call of Duty: Mobile
66%
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Shooter, Adventure
Developer
Timi, Activision
Publisher
Tencent Games
Release
May 14, 2019
Whether you’re a fan of Call of Duty already or you’re new to one of the biggest FPS franchises around, Call of Duty: Mobile deserves your time. Specially designed for touchscreen firefights, this shooting game fulfills all your shooter action cravings — and it’s free, too. Choose from a bunch of multiplayer modes, including battle royale, with top-notch graphics and fast, frenetic yet satisfying gameplay. Fans will spot familiar characters and classic maps from other Call of Duty games. Is this the best mobile shooter around right now? We’d say so — and we recommend checking out our Call of Duty: Mobile tips before diving in. There’s fresh content every season, and right now, you can play Season 10.
Monument Valley 2
89%
Platforms
Mac, Android, iOS
Genre
Puzzle, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Ustwo Games
Publisher
Ustwo Games
Release
May 30, 2017
Monument Valley 2 is not exactly a new game, as it came out all the way back in 2017. But to this day, it is one of the most aesthetically pleasing games thanks to its serene fantastical worlds. You play as Ro, guiding her through obstacles and puzzles galore in mind-bending 3D-style illusions. Plus, there’s a beautiful emotional depth to the game with its occasional mother-daughter team-up to progress ahead, while the story itself is an allusion to freedom and maturity in life. The oracle adds a layer of mysticism to the game, while the terrific color and geometry that plays out in its puzzling scenery is in a league of its own. Overall, Monument Valley 2 is a charming game that stands out from other titles by serving you a calm journey instead of action urgency.
Dead Cells
83%
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5
Genre
Platform, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Motion Twin, Evil Empire
Publisher
Motion Twin
Release
August 06, 2018
It’s rare that a mobile port can match the fun of its original PC or console counterpart, but Dead Cells clearly falls in the class of exceptions. Plus, it plays just as well with a controller as with touchscreen controls. This is another game where you die a lot, but there’s a sense of sweet retribution every time you do a fresh run after learning from your failures. All you need is quick reflexes with your dodge and parry tactics, and a healthy dose of patience, to breeze ahead in this challenging game. The auto-attack mode is especially great here, while the pixel art makes even the worms and monsters look appealing. Plus, the game score really lifts the mood while you’re trying your hardest to vanquish enemies.
Frequently asked questions
Which of the best Android games are free?
Many of the games on our list are free to play, some allow you to play a few levels for free, and some are free but offer microtransactions. If you’re worried about kids making accidental purchases, most games offer the option to disable this feature.
What Android games are fun to play with friends?
There are plenty of Android games you can play with friends, whether you’re into MMORPGs or FPS games. We recommend checking out popular titles like Call of Duty: Mobile, Them Bombs, Garena Free Fire, and Brawlhalla. There’s something on our list to suit all tastes, and a quick search of the Google Play store for multiplayer games should give you even more options.
Which of the best Android games can you play offline?
While some of the games on our list above are playable offline, we recommend checking out our roundup of the best offline Android games if you’re specifically looking for something that doesn’t require internet connectivity — great for traveling.
Why are some Android games better to play with an Android controller?
Shooter games and many MMORPGs simply work better with a controller. You’ll be able to aim more accurately and enjoy faster response times, as well as see the fast-paced action on-screen more clearly than when your fingers are in the way. Why not check out our pick of the best Android controllers while you’re here?
