The landscape of Android gaming has seen tremendous growth over the years, leading to the emergence of numerous titles that have captivated players worldwide. In 2024, the list of best Android games showcases a diverse range of genres, from action-packed adventures to strategic puzzles, reflecting the varied tastes of the global gaming community. These games not only offer engaging gameplay but also boast impressive graphics and immersive storylines, making them a staple on devices across the globe. The success of these titles is a testament to the creativity and innovation of developers who continue to push the boundaries of mobile gaming.
Rank | Games | Genre | Developer | Publisher | Platform | Release Date | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Arena of Valor | Multiplayer online battle arena | TiMi Studios | Level Infinite, Garena | Android, iOS, iPadOS, Nintendo Switch | October 12, 2016 | |
2 | PUBG Mobile | Battle royale | Tencent Games | WW: Level Infinite, KOR: Krafton, VNM: VNG Games | Android, iOS | March 18, 2018 | |
3 | Puzzle & Dragons | Puzzle, role-playing | GungHo Online Entertainment | GungHo Online Entertainment | iOS, iPadOS, Android, Kindle Fire | February 20, 2012 | |
4 | Pokémon GO | Augmented reality, location-based game | Niantic | Niantic | iOS, Android | July 6, 2016 | |
5 | Clash of Clans | Strategy | Supercell | Supercell | iOS, iPadOS, Android | August 2, 2012 | |
6 | Candy Crush Saga | Puzzle | King | King | App StoreGoogle PlayWindows Phone StoreWindowsmacOSLinux | April 12, 2012 | |
7 | Coin Master | Casual mobile game | Moon Active | Moon Active | Android, iOS, iPadOS | 2015 | |
8 | Garena Free Fire | Battle royale | Garena | Garena | Android, iOS, iPadOS | December 8, 2017 | |
9 | Gardenscapes | Puzzle | Playrix | Playrix | Android, iOS, iPadOS, Facebook Platform | July 5, 2016 | |
10 | Marvel Contest of Champions | Fighting | Kabam, Raw Thrills | Kabam (Netmarble), Dave & Buster's (arcade) | iOS, iPadOS, Android, Arcade | December 10, 2014 | |
11 | Brawl Stars | MOBA, Hero shooter | Supercell | Supercell | Android, iOS, iPadOS | June 14, 2017 | |
12 | Call of Duty: Mobile | First-person shooter | TiMi Studio Group | Activision | Android, iOS | October 1, 2019 | |
13 | Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes | Role-playing | Capital Games | Electronic Arts | Android, iOS, iPadOS | November 24, 2015 | |
14 | Honkai Star Rail | Role-playing | miHoYo | CHN: miHoYo, WW: HoYoverse | Windows, iOS, Android, PlayStation 5 | April 26, 2023 | |
15 | Angry Birds | Puzzle, casual, strategy shooter | Rovio Entertainment | Chillingo (2009/2012) Rovio Entertainment | iOS, Maemo, MeeGo, HP webOS, Android, Symbian^3, Series 40, Nintendo 3DS (AB Trilogy), PlayStation Store (PSP/PS3/PSVita/AB Trilogy), Xbox 360 (AB Trilogy), Windows (discontinued since 2014), WebGL, Windows Phone (discontinued), Google Plus, Google Chrome (Chrome Web Store), BlackBerry Tablet OS, Bada, Facebook (Flash), Mac OS X, Roku, Samsung Smart TV (Orsay OS), Wii (AB Trilogy), Wii U (AB Trilogy), HTML5, BlackBerry 10, Kindle Fire/Kindle Fire HD, Nook Color, Tizen | December 11, 2009 | |
16 | Marvel Snap | Digital collectible card game | Second Dinner Studios | Nuverse | Android, iOS, macOS, Windows | October 18, 2022 | |
17 | Subway Surfers | Endless runner | Kiloo and SYBO Games | Kiloo Games (2012–2020) SYBO Games (2020–present) | iOS, iPadOS, macOS, HarmonyOS, Android, Web browser, Windows 10 Mobile, Windows Phone 8, Amazon Fire Tablet | May 24, 2012 | |
18 | Among Us | Party, social deduction | InnerSloth | InnerSloth | Android, iOS, Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S | June 15, 2018 |
Best Android Games: ranked by revenue
Arena of Valor
- Developer: TiMi Studios
- Revenue: 18 billion
- Downloads: Over 10 million on Google Play
Arena of Valor is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that pits two teams of five players against each other with the objective of destroying the opposing team’s base while defending their own. Each player controls a “hero” with unique abilities, and teamwork is crucial to success. The game does not have a traditional plot but focuses on competitive play and strategy. It features high-quality graphics with a wide variety of character designs and detailed battlegrounds. Arena of Valor is recommended for players aged 12 and up due to its competitive nature and mild fantasy violence, appealing to fans of strategic team-based gameplay.
PUBG Mobile
- Developer: Tencent Games
- Revenue: 11 billon
- Downloads: Over 500 million on Google Play
PUBG Mobile is a battle royale game where players parachute onto an island and fight to be the last one standing. The game involves scavenging for weapons and equipment, engaging in combat with other players, and staying within the safe zone that gradually shrinks over time. The game’s graphics are highly detailed and realistic, providing an immersive survival experience. PUBG Mobile’s plot revolves around the battle royale concept, with no overarching storyline beyond the survival competition. Suitable for players aged 16 and up due to its realistic violence and competitive nature, PUBG Mobile appeals to those who enjoy intense action, strategy, and the thrill of outlasting others in a shrinking battlefield.
Puzzle & Dragons
- Developer: GungHo Online Entertainment
- Revenue: 8,5 billion
- Downloads: Over 5 million on Google Play
Puzzle & Dragons is an intriguing blend of match-three puzzles, role-playing, and strategy, developed by GungHo Online Entertainment. Players embark on adventures, matching orbs to combat with a roster of over 9000 unique monsters, each with its skills and attributes. The game is set in diverse dungeons, with players building and enhancing their teams for various challenges. Its vibrant graphics and engaging gameplay have made it immensely popular worldwide. Recommended for players aged 9 and up, it offers depth in strategy that appeals to both young gamers and adults
Pokémon GO
- Developer: Niantic, Inc.
- Revenue: 6,4 billion
- Downloads: Over 100 million on Google Play
Pokémon GO is an augmented reality (AR) game that revolutionized mobile gaming by encouraging players to explore the real world to catch Pokémon. The game uses the player’s geographical location and AR to bring Pokémon to life in the real world, appearing on the screen as if they are in the same real-world location as the player. The objective is to catch Pokémon, battle in gyms, participate in raids, and collect items from Pokéstops. The game’s plot is inspired by the Pokémon franchise’s theme of catching and training Pokémon to become a Pokémon Master. Pokémon GO’s graphics blend virtual elements seamlessly with the real world, offering a unique gaming experience. It’s suitable for all ages, though young children should be accompanied by adults during play for safety. It’s especially recommended for those who enjoy exploration and outdoor activities.
Clash of Clans
- Developer: Supercell
- Revenue: 6,2 billion
- Downloads: Over 500 million on Google Play
Clash of Clans is a strategy game where players build and defend their own villages while attacking others to earn resources. The game involves managing resources, building armies, and planning strategic attacks against other players’ villages or against goblin encampments in the single-player mode. Its plot revolves around the idea of clan wars, where players can join together to form clans and participate in epic clan battles. The game’s graphics are cartoonish yet detailed, offering a visually appealing experience. It’s known for its deep strategic elements and social interaction, making it suitable for players aged 10 and up, especially those interested in long-term planning and collaboration with others.
Candy Crush Saga
- Developer: King
- Revenue: 6 billion
- Downloads: Over 1 billion on Google Play
Candy Crush Saga is a match-three puzzle game that has become a household name in the mobile gaming world. Players swap colored candies on a game board to make a match of three or more of the same color, which then disappear, allowing new candies to fall into their place. The game offers thousands of levels, each with a unique challenge and sometimes different objectives, such as reaching a certain score or clearing certain types of candies. Candy Crush Saga is known for its bright, candy-themed graphics and addictive gameplay. While it’s a simple game to understand, some levels require strategic thinking to complete. It’s suitable for all ages and has a broad appeal due to its simplicity and engaging mechanics.
Coin Master
- Developer: Moon Active
- Revenue: 5 billion
- Downloads: Over 100 million on Google Play
Coin Master, developed by Moon Active, is a mobile game that combines slot machine mechanics with base-building strategy. Players spin to win coins, shields, and the opportunity to attack or raid other villages, progressing through levels to build and enhance their Viking-themed settlements. The game fosters a sense of community and competition, encouraging players to interact with friends and other players worldwide. Its simple yet addictive gameplay, accompanied by colorful and cartoonish graphics, appeals to a broad audience, making it suitable for all ages.
Garena Free Fire
- Developer: 111dots Studio
- Revenue: 4,7 billion
- Downloads: Over 1 billion on Google Play
Garena Free Fire is another popular battle royale game that places 50 players on a deserted island where they must fight to be the last person standing. Like PUBG Mobile, players must find weapons and equipment and eliminate other players while staying inside a safe zone that decreases in size. The game features shorter, more fast-paced matches than typical battle royale games, lasting about 10 minutes each. Free Fire’s graphics are optimized for a wide range of devices, ensuring smooth gameplay even on less powerful smartphones. While there isn’t a specific plot, the game’s focus is on survival and strategy. Recommended for players aged 12 and up, Garena Free Fire is ideal for those who enjoy quick battle royale matches and the excitement of quick strategic decision-making.
Gardenscapes
- Developer: Playrix
- Revenue: 3,7 billion
- Downloads: Over 100 million on Google Play
Gardenscapes is a casual game that combines match-3 puzzles with a garden restoration storyline. Players help the game’s protagonist, Austin the butler, renovate and beautify a neglected garden by completing various match-3 levels. Each level’s completion earns stars, which are then used to complete tasks related to the garden’s renovation. The game features colorful and detailed graphics, creating a vibrant and inviting garden environment. While the game is lighthearted and relaxing, some puzzles can be challenging, requiring strategic thinking to solve. Recommended for players of all ages, Gardenscapes is ideal for those who enjoy a mix of puzzle-solving and creativity in their gaming experience.
Marvel Contest of Champions
- Developer: Kabam
- Revenue: 2 billon
- Downloads: Over 100 million on Google Play
In Marvel Contest of Champions, players dive into the Marvel Universe, engaging in epic 1v1 battles. By swiping and tapping, you execute basic attacks, blocks, and special moves to defeat opponents. Strategic gameplay involves choosing the right characters with suitable abilities to counter opponents effectively. Success in battles rewards you with resources to unlock and upgrade a diverse roster of Marvel heroes and villains, enhancing their skills for future challenges. The game combines action-packed combat with a compelling storyline, inviting players to partake in quests and events for ultimate supremacy.
Brawl Stars
- Developer: Supercell
- Revenue: 2 billon
- Downloads: Over 100 million on Google Play
In Brawl Stars, players select a character, or “Brawler,” each with unique abilities, to compete in various fast-paced multiplayer game modes. Objectives can range from collecting gems, scoring goals, to being the last one standing. Teamwork and strategy are key, as players navigate through dynamic environments, utilizing their Brawler’s attacks and super abilities effectively. The game encourages both cooperative play and competitive matches.
Call of Duty: Mobile
- Developer: Timi Studios
- Revenue: 1,5 billion
- Downloads: Over 100 million on Google Play
Call of Duty: Mobile brings the iconic Call of Duty franchise to Android devices, offering a mix of multiplayer and battle royale modes. Players engage in fast-paced, competitive shooting matches across various iconic maps from the series, using a wide array of weapons and gear. The game features high-quality graphics and realistic sound effects, providing an immersive first-person shooter experience. While the game doesn’t have a central plot in multiplayer modes, the battle royale and limited-time events offer thematic narratives. Suitable for players aged 16 and up due to its realistic combat and violence, Call of Duty: Mobile is perfect for fans of intense, action-packed shooter games who enjoy teamwork and strategy.
Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes
- Developer: Capital Games
- Revenue: 1 billion
- Downloads: Over 50 million on Google Play
Star Wars: Galaxy of Heroes, developed by Capital Games and published by Electronic Arts, immerses players in the iconic Star Wars universe. This turn-based RPG allows fans to collect characters from across the saga, form powerful teams, and engage in strategic battles. With a variety of game modes, players can experience iconic locations and pivotal moments from the films. The game’s depth in squad customization and progression offers a rich and engaging experience. It’s suitable for Star Wars enthusiasts and RPG fans aged 12 and up.
Honkai Star Rail
- Developer: miHoYo
- Revenue: 690+ million
- Downloads: Over 10 million on Google Play
Honkai Star Rail is a strategic RPG that takes players on an interstellar adventure across multiple galaxies. In this game, players assemble a team of unique characters, each with their own abilities and backstories, to explore the universe and combat the mysterious forces of Honkai. The game features turn-based combat, requiring strategic thinking and team composition to prevail. Its engaging plot, rich character development, and stunning graphics offer an immersive experience. Honkai Star Rail’s expansive universe and lore make it suitable for players aged 12 and up, particularly appealing to fans of sci-fi and deep narrative-driven games.
Angry Birds
- Developer: Rovio Entertainment
- Revenue: 332 million
- Downloads: Over 100 million on Google Play for various versions of the game
Angry Birds is a physics-based puzzle game that became a global phenomenon. Players use a slingshot to launch birds at structures with the aim of hitting pigs that are sheltered within those structures. The game’s plot involves the birds trying to retrieve their eggs stolen by the green pigs. Each bird has its own unique abilities that players must utilize strategically to clear levels. The graphics are colorful and cartoonish, with humorous elements that add to the game’s charm. Angry Birds is known for its simple yet addictive gameplay, making it suitable for players of all ages. It’s particularly recommended for those who enjoy puzzle-solving and have a keen sense of strategy and trajectory planning.
Marvel Snap
- Developer: Second Dinner Studios, Inc.
- Revenue: 200 million
- Downloads: Over 10 million on Google Play
Marvel Snap is a fast-paced, collectible card game that features characters from the vast Marvel Universe. Players build decks with their favorite heroes and villains and battle against others in quick, strategic matches. The game stands out for its unique “snap” feature, where players can bet on their victory to gain more rewards, adding an extra layer of risk and strategy. Marvel Snap is lauded for its vibrant graphics and dynamic card animations, bringing each character to life. The game’s accessibility and quick match format make it suitable for players aged 9 and up, offering an engaging experience for both Marvel fans and those new to collectible card games.
Subway Surfers
- Developer: Kiloo and SYBO Games
- Revenue: 155 millon
- Downloads: Over 1 billion on Google Play
Subway Surfers is an endless runner genre game that has captivated millions of players worldwide. In this vibrant and fast-paced game, players take on the role of youthful graffiti artists who must dash along subway tracks, dodging trains and obstacles while collecting coins and power-ups. The game is set against a backdrop of various cityscapes that change periodically. The colorful and vivid graphics, coupled with smooth animations, make it a visual treat. The game’s simple swipe controls are easy to grasp, making it accessible to players of all ages, though it’s particularly popular among younger audiences, recommended from ages 7 and up.
Among Us
- Developer: InnerSloth
- Revenue: 139, 2 million
- Downloads: Over 500 million on Google Play
Among Us is a multiplayer social deduction game set on a spaceship, where players are either Crewmates or Impostors. Crewmates must complete tasks around the ship and try to identify the Impostors, who are secretly trying to sabotage the mission and eliminate the Crewmates. The game relies heavily on communication and deception, as players discuss and vote on who they suspect is an Impostor during meetings. Among Us features simple, cartoon-like graphics that contribute to its accessibility and broad appeal. The game has no specific age recommendation, but it’s best suited for players old enough to engage in its social and strategic aspects, typically around 10 and up. Among Us is perfect for those who enjoy group dynamics, strategy, and the thrill of uncovering or being the deceiver.
The Future of Android Gaming
Technological Advances and Game Development
The future of Android gaming is set to be revolutionized by several technological advancements. With the continuous improvement in mobile hardware, games are becoming more visually stunning and complex, offering experiences that rival traditional console gaming. Cloud gaming technology, such as Google’s Stadia, is making high-quality games more accessible on Android devices without the need for high-end hardware. The integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in game development is also enhancing personalized gaming experiences, making games more responsive and adaptive to individual player behavior. Furthermore, the advancement in Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) technologies is opening new realms for immersive gaming, with titles like Pokémon GO setting the stage for future AR-based games.
Emerging Trends in Android Gaming
Several trends are shaping the future landscape of Android gaming. Social gaming is on the rise, with more games incorporating social features that allow players to connect, compete, and collaborate in real-time. This trend is bolstered by the global connectivity of players through the internet. Another significant trend is the rise of indie games, as independent developers now have the tools and platforms to create and distribute innovative games that challenge traditional gaming norms. Additionally, the free-to-play model with in-app purchases is becoming increasingly prevalent, allowing more users to access games freely while monetizing through optional purchases. Lastly, there’s a growing emphasis on cross-platform play, enabling gamers to play the same game across different devices, further blurring the lines between mobile and traditional console/PC gaming.
FAQ
Success on the Android platform often comes down to several key factors. Firstly, engaging and addictive gameplay that keeps players coming back is crucial. This can be achieved through a compelling storyline, challenging puzzles, strategic depth, or exciting action. Secondly, high-quality graphics and sound enhance the immersive experience, making the game more appealing. Accessibility also plays a significant role; games that are easy to learn but hard to master tend to attract a wider audience. Additionally, successful games often incorporate social elements, allowing players to connect and compete with others. Finally, effective monetization strategies that don't detract from the gameplay are essential for financial success
Developers typically monetize free-to-play games through a variety of in-app purchases (IAPs), which can include cosmetic items, in-game currency, special abilities, or unlockable content. Advertising is another common revenue stream, with developers integrating ads in various formats such as banners, interstitials, rewarded videos, or native ads within the game. Some games also offer subscription models, providing players with exclusive benefits, content, and an ad-free experience for a recurring fee. Balancing monetization with a positive user experience is key to retaining players and maximizing revenue.
The suitability of each game varies based on its content, theme, and gameplay mechanics. While some games like "Candy Crush Saga" and "Subway Surfers" are designed to be accessible and enjoyable for all ages, including children, others like "PUBG Mobile" and "Call of Duty: Mobile" feature realistic violence and competitive gameplay, making them more appropriate for older players. It's important for parents and guardians to review the content and age recommendations for each game, which can typically be found on the game's page on Google Play, to determine if it's appropriate for their child or family member.