The App Store is filled with a deluge of games, but not every iOS game is worth your time or money. I have rounded up some of the best iPhone games with considerations across various genres, from action and puzzles to strategy and beyond, to give you something you are interested in!
These games for iPhone can be a great way to pass the time whether you are in transit or at home or looking to engage in some serious competition. Moreover, you can connect with other players worldwide, which is pretty cool.
If that sounds appealing, check out this list. We update it every month to cover the worthy latest releases. So don’t forget to come back!
- Action games
- Adventure games
- Board games
- Puzzle games
- Racing games
- Role-playing games
- Simulation games
- Sports games
- Strategy games
- Family games
Action games
1. Among Us
Here’s one of the most popular global gaming sensations in recent times. Among Us is set in a spaceship that’s preparing for launch. The aim is to find the player among the crew who’s an imposter plotting to kill everyone.
You have to use basic vertical and horizontal movements to move from room to room to accomplish your tasks. If you’re the imposer, your goal is to sabotage and murder your crewmates. And if you’re a crew member who suspects something, call an emergency meeting and try to get the imposter voted out before they destroy you. Players that are killed turn into “ghosts” to see how the rest of the match plays out.
You can play it online or over local Wi-Fi with 4-10 players. To win, crew members must complete all the tasks or identify the imposter and vote them off the ship. I love how every match keeps the mystery alive.
However, the first time you play, you might feel a bit lost because it’s a bit challenging to figure out the tasks and accomplish them. But once you get into it, it’s addictive and highly entertaining as friends turn against one another, bonds are tested, and the in-game chat offers much-needed comic relief.
I appreciate that Among Us is perfect for playing as much or as little as you want. Many multiplayer games require a heavy time investment to get through, which is not always convenient. Other notable aspects include the charmingly cute art style and animations.
Price: Free
2. Call of Duty Mobile
If you’ve been a fan of this classic shooter action game, you will love the console-quality graphics on this exclusive mobile version. It’s got customizable controls, thrilling 3D graphics, immersive sound, and voice and text chat to keep you engaged.
You can choose between various modes such as Battle Royale (which unlocks at level 5), Free-For-All, Frontline, Team Deathmatch, Hardpoint, and Domination. It’s one of the best FPS games out there, and the iOS app retains the look and feel of the original PC game.
Further, I think it’s a superior alternative to PUBG with a more realistic feel and a diversity of combat experiences. For instance, you can scout enemies aerially, call drone strikes, or deploy a cluster bomb payload. There are also lethal weapons like grenades at your disposal to take out multiple enemies at once.
Moreover, you can play multiplayer maps, squad up with friends in 100-person battle royale survival challenges, and use your skills to move to the top in the super-competitive Ranked Mode. It’s a real thrill to compete and fight against millions of players in this highly customizable and challenging game. Do note that it’s pretty resource-intensive, so it might not perform so well on older devices.
Price: Free
3. Sniper 3D
During my early gaming days as a teenager, one of my favorite pastimes was playing the PC version of Hitman Silent Assassin. It was my initiation into the addictive world of mission-based sniper games. Although the Hitman franchise has a mobile game, I prefer Sniper 3D because of the superior graphics and wider variety of options that guarantee hours of fun.
You get to take on the role of a crime fighter, progressing through 13 cities as you hunt down terrorists and goons to assist the police and army. The missions start pretty easy and get gradually more challenging to keep the game interesting.
For instance, you start by shooting a stationary target and then aiming at criminals on the move or the run. Sometimes, you have a limited time frame to get your shot which adds to the thrill, and you can also get extra points by shooting perfect headshots!
There are tons of weapons and thrilling action with every mission. Although it’s difficult to earn coins and diamonds, there are many easy missions that you can take on for some quick cash. I found the story quite addictive, and it kept me wanting to shoot down more bad guys.
Price: Free ($4.99 for Premium)
Adventure games
4. Crash Bandicoot: On the Run!
It’s time to join Crash Bandicoot and his sister Coco on a super fun and adventurous mission to save the multiverse. The objective is to keep Crash and Coco running, jumping, spinning, and smashing without running into the obstacles.
I loved speeding through the mysterious lands brought alive by colorful graphics. You can also build an arsenal of spectacular weapons and take on all kinds of challenges.
Every adventure is a thrill ride and will keep you gripped for more. My favorites are the multiplayer runs in which you can team up with friends and earn bragging rights for being the best.
It will be a joy for your inner child and bring a smile to your face anytime. However, the only way it could be better was if the runs were faster and the wait time between levels was shorter.
Price: Free (In-app purchases start from $1.99)
5. Minecraft
Give your creativity free rein with this engaging game that’s all about w0rld-building. It’s the mobile version of another PC classic that captured the imagination of kids and adults alike. If you’ve been living under a rock and don’t know about Minecraft, it’s a massively multiplayer game in which you can build everything from simple houses to elaborate castles.
Challenge yourself by playing in survival mode, wherein you have to craft weapons to use against enemies. Or, get into a meditative state by simply building to your heart’s content in the creative mode.
I particularly like how you can customize your experience with free add-ons! For the tech-inclined geeks like me, the game lets you create new resource packs. It not only shows how creative you can be but also serves as a source for new ideas. It can be quite addictive to keep building new things and exploring.
Further, a steady stream of updates keeps the Minecraft universe forever fresh, fun, and challenging! Each update is better than the last, adding exciting animals and new objects. Although it’s a paid game, it’s worth every cent for adventure-loving gamers.
Price: $6.99
6. Playdead’s INSIDE
Check out this indie game that’s won over a hundred awards and captures the imagination with its unique graphics and dark humor. It’s a narrative-driven platformer that combines intense action with challenging puzzles.
You will especially love it if you were a fan of Limbo, the predecessor of this game, from the same developer. However, rest assured that this is a whole new experience with a host of intriguing puzzles set to an eerie storyline. You take on the role of a boy entering a dark forest laden with problems to solve. If you stick with the game, you will guide the boy from the forest to a farm and then into a city, followed by other locations.
If you get caught, you die, and I should warn you that the death scenes are pretty realistic, so don’t go for this if that kind of thing disturbs you. However, these scenes fit beautifully into the world of the game, and I have to commend the spellbinding design and the graphics. But I also feel that the game is so literally dark that visibility becomes an issue, even when turning up the screen brightness.
Lastly, I love the moody soundtrack and somewhat creepy atmosphere that keep you hooked. It’s a game that’s not meant to be understood but rather just experienced and immersed in. If you’re not familiar with Playdead’s Limbo, you’ll have to try this one for yourself to see if it’s up your alley.
Price: Free ($6.99 for full access)
7. Genshin Impact
It’s time to explore the vast, mysterious world of Teyvat. You arrive here from another world, and your task is to seek answers by joining forces with a diverse set of characters. Climb mountains, swim across rivers and explore this wondrous world full of surprises.
The game is all about elemental magic, and you can play with friends across various platforms to trigger more elemental action. What I found especially notable is the soundtrack performed by the London Philharmonic Orchestra. It changes seamlessly to match the gameplay and mood.
Beautiful art meets great sound in this free-to-play, open-world action RPG. For a free game, it offers an impressive amount that includes a detailed storyline, lots of quests, puzzles, challenges, etc. It’s also frequently updated with new stuff to explore.
It’s easy to learn the movements and combat techniques, with adventure around every corner. Moreover, up to four players can team up together, and there’s cross-platform drop-in, drop-out gameplay. Of course, it can also be enjoyed solo, and the vast world is incredibly immersive – you’ll be spoilt for choice with dozens of possibilities, from high action to leisurely gliding across the scenery.
Price: Free
8. Blind Drive
This is one of the latest iOS games that you must try. You’re blindfolded and moving against the traffic with cars zooming past, drivers yelling, cops tailing you, etc. The entire game is experienced through the ears, which makes it a unique experience.
I loved the hyper-immersive 1st-person audio and fast-paced arcade gameplay. Moreoevr, it’s got 27 levels of chaotic gameplay that’ll keep you on the edge of your seat. The jazzy yet minimalist visuals further add to the appeal.
Price: $3.99
Board games
9. Chess Play and Learn
Here’s a game that never gets old. Learn it from scratch or upgrade your skills with this amazing chess app that’s packed with useful features. Play against millions of players across the world and improve your rating.
Or, you can go up against a powerful AI opponent for practice. Some interactive lessons and videos serve as handy resources for the serious chess player. You can also customize the game with 20+ gorgeous themes for boards, pieces, and backgrounds. I think it’s the best all-in-one chess app you could want.
Price: Free ($4.99 for Gold Membership)
Puzzle games
10. One Escape
Most games are all about being the good guy, but here’s one with a twist. Your task is to help orchestrate a smart jailbreak for three convicted bank robbers. Hide from the guards and find a way to freedom in this exciting, adrenaline-pumping adventure.
It’s packed with 60 levels of cool missions like finding keys to locked doors, avoiding booby traps, and much more. Moreover, the three characters you embody each have their unique abilities, so you have to tweak your gameplay strategy accordingly. Do you have what it takes to pull off a clean breakout without getting caught? Download and try this new iPhone game to find out!
Price: $2.99
11. Doctor Who: Lonely Assassins
Check out the best mystery game based on the beloved Doctor Who sci-fi series! It’s got everything that fans will love, from rich storylines to fascinating alien species, challenging enemies, and the excellent Time Lord.
I instantly loved how realistic this game feels. You take on the role of someone who finds a lost phone belonging to Lawrence Nightingale and receive a call informing you that Nightingale has ties to the Weeping Angels. Now you’ve got to search his phone for clues.
The gameplay is intriguing and draws you in, pushing you to crack the mystery as fast as you can. I’m sure you’ll have a blast searching through messages, emails, and media to find the clues, solve puzzles, and uncover the truth.
Price: $3.99
12. Candy Crush Saga
This has got to be one of the best iPhone games of all time that’s easy to play, addictive, and so much fun. The goal is, of course, to match the candy to crush it, but the graphics and sound effects take this match-up puzzle game to the next level.
The game is endless, with thousands of levels that steadily get more complicated. There are different game modes to keep things interesting, and you can play both online and offline. It’s also easy to sync the game between different devices.
Price: Free
13. Angry Birds 2
I have loved this game ever since it first came out, and it’s managed to hold its own over the years. It’s just so much fun to use the slingshot to fling birds at the piggies’ towers and see them come crashing down. I think it’s a great way to vent frustration too.
Further, the characters are cute, and the levels get steadily more complicated. There are also daily challenges that you can try out. The game is consistently updated, and there are always new levels and gorgeous graphics to keep you hooked.
Price: Free
14. Threes
It’s time to challenge your mind with this puzzle game that’s all about merging numbers to create more significant numbers. The aim is to avoid gridlock, and it requires some thoughtful strategy to win.
I love the appealing design, the whimsical music, and the engaging gameplay that gives other puzzle games a run for their money. Although the mechanics are simple, the concept and execution are pretty unique and outstanding. This earns it a place among the best iOS games out there!
Price: $5.99
15. Monument Valley
This beautifully designed escape game challenges you to manipulate fantastical architecture to navigate a vivid fantasy world. I find the gameplay quite soothing and meditative, filled with hidden paths, optical illusions, and more fun puzzles.
Moreover, the design is based on real-life temples and monuments. As you make your way through the world, the audio dynamically changes, creating an immersive experience best enjoyed with headphones. It also syncs across devices for convenience.
Price: $3.99
Racing games
16. Asphalt 9 Legends
For all the racing fans out there, you cannot miss out on the action of Asphalt 9 Legends. You can face the speed and become a Legend of the Track in some of the most fantastic dream cars from Ferrari, Porsche, Lamborghini, etc., in exotic locations worldwide.
I especially enjoy the single-player Career mode that lets you participate in over 900 racing events to grow your supercars collection. Then, there is the online multiplayer mode that pits you against up to 7 rival players from all over the world. Asphalt has won multiple awards for its design and technical achievement.
Price: Free
Role-playing games
17. Northgard
This is one of the most intriguing new releases on iOS worth checking out. It is an intriguing blend of Viking adventure and strategy. You have to lead a clan of Vikings who discover the land of Northgard and have to manage resources, do different kinds of jobs, and more.
The objective is to strategize and expand your territory to achieve victory. It’s a must-have for all the Norse mythology geeks out there, especially if you happened to have played the original PC version.
The iOS game gives the original a run for its money on mobile. It features a revamped interface, Game Center achievements, and iCloud save support for progress sync between devices.
Price: $7.99
18. Knights of San Francisco
Here’s a quick little adventure that will transport you to an imagined future where you have to explore what remains of the ancient city of San Francisco. It’s an RPG text game steeped in all things weird and whacky. It puts you in the shoes of a young necromancer who’s out on a quest to raise the dead. Pretty creepy stuff, but somehow it’s equally fascinating too.
The dynamic combat is pretty intense, simulated to the level of individual body parts. For instance, you can cleave off somebody’s leg and bash it over their head – definitely not for the frail at heart. Simultaneously, a Natural Language Generation system explains what’s happening to you in plain English.
You can get through the whole game in about 90 minutes, but it’ll be one of the most gripping 90 minutes of your life. So if you don’t mind some death and dystopia, this game is worth it.
Price: $2.99
19. Heroic Expedition
It’s time for some fascinating role-play in this charming new iOS game. The objective is to fight against the Lord of Disaster, who has orchestrated tragedy upon the Divine Realm! Put your skills to the test to see if you can save the world from chaos.
I love the quirky and unique art style that offers unparalleled visual enjoyment. You will lose yourself in creating your dream city and cultivating heroes to battle it out for rewards.
There are delicate 3D characters collect, and you can configure your lineup as you wish. Unleash dazzling skills on the battlefield!
Prove yourself in solo matches and cross-server tournaments for endless entertainment. Do you have what it takes to earn all the marvelous rewards and emerge as the king of the arena?
Price: $1.99
20. Stardew Valley
Step into the shoes of a farmer and explore country life in this award-winning open-ended role-playing game. It’s got over 50+ hours of gameplay and mobile-exclusive features such as auto-save and multiple controls options.
From breeding cute animals to growing seasonal crops and building your farm step-by-step, this game is the perfect escape from mundane city life. I love the variety of options it offers and the attractive graphics.
Price: $4.99
Simulation games
21. Plague
This one’s a bit of a dark yet topical simulation game that’s all about spreading a virus through the world. It’s terrifyingly realistic but requires some high strategy to orchestrate the end of human history.
The highlights include:
- Stunning retina graphics.
- A richly detailed, hyper-realistic world with advanced AI.
- A handy in-game tutorial.
- Over 50 countries to infect.
There are 12 different diseases to spread, each with its strategy to master.
Price: $0.99
Sports games
22. River Legends
Learn to fly fish while you make your way through the imagined Pine Canyon in this new single-player iOS game. It effectively blends elements of simulation and RPG adventure with a glorious pixel art style.
The AI is realistic, and I adore the dynamic weather conditions that add an atmospheric touch to this game. Your goal is to pursue multiple species of fish that each has their fly and weather preferences. This keeps things challenging as you have to choose the best tackle based on water conditions.
Moreover, you can explore some fascinating environments such as forgotten canyons, beautiful alpine lakes, mysterious dark forests, sylvan ponds, and more. It’s a whole lot of fun and keeps you “hooked” – pun intended!
Price: $2.99
23. Alto’s Odyssey
With beautiful graphics, ambient sounds and music, and super-smooth gameplay, this endless runner game has captivated my imagination. You can snowboard your way over windswept dunes, thrilling canyons, and more.
While it’s easy to learn, it will keep you challenged as you know more moves and explore the fascinating landscape. There are six characters to unlock, and I especially love the dynamic lighting and weather effects that add to the gameplay. It’s a must-try for any game lover out there.
Price: $4.99
Strategy games
24. Crash Dive 2
This is a unique tactical combat game that challenges you to command a submarine and destroy enemy ships and camps. It is an ingenious blend of a submarine simulator and arcade action.
I enjoyed the realistic mechanics and the option to adopt either a stealthy or offensive approach to emerge victoriously. Once you figure out if you want a strategic or aggressive stance, you’ll be able to customize the tools you take into battle.
There’s also a random mission generator that increases the replay quotient. There are many extra features like dynamic weather conditions and a day/night cycle that add to the atmosphere.
Lastly, my favorite aspect of the game is the real-world locales, including the Philippines, Sea of Japan, Solomon Islands, and more. Check it out for yourself and get exploring.
Price: $9.99
25. Pokemon GO
Ever since its launch, this AR game has taken the world by storm and continues to be one of the best games to play on your iPhone. Your aim is to discover and capture pokemon wherever you go.
Moreover, you can choose to link it to your iOS Health app to earn walking distance even when the app is closed. In this way, it’s a fun way to keep moving and stay fit while you compete. Journey with your pokemon to help make them stronger and earn rewards.
Price: Free
26. The Battle of Polytopia
The Battle of Polytopia is an award-winning strategy game in which you have to battle enemy tribes, discover new land, master new technologies, and dominate the map. You’re the leader of your tribe and must build a mighty civilization.
You take on the role of the ruler of a tribe and attempt to build a civilization. Moreover, it can be played offline, which makes it perfect for traveling. You can play as a single-player or online multiplayer, and there are three game modes: Perfection, Domination, and Creative.
Price: Free
27. Tetris
Enjoy a classic puzzle experience with this colorful game that challenges your thinking skills. The objective is to fit the blocks together to form lines and prevent a build-up of pieces.
You can play quick rounds to beat your score or play infinite rounds to build your skills and become a champion. There’s also a multiplayer option where you can hang out and chat with friends.
Price: Free
28. Clash of Clans
Yet another popular and best iPhone game, this one’s a strategy game that’s all about building your village, raising a clan, and competing in clan wars. Forge alliances and clash with players worldwide in epic battles that will test your strategizing skills.
There’s no end to what you can do in this universe, from discovering amazing new characters to trying out new tactics and experimenting with your army. Use towers, canons, traps, walls, and more to defend against enemy attacks and lead your clan to victory.
Price: Free
Family games
29. Sky: Children of the Light
This is one of the most positive and uplifting games I’ve ever played. It’s got the perfect blend of beautiful graphics, relaxing gameplay, and good vibes that make you want to keep playing. The story is based on the goal of spreading hope and restoring light to a desolate kingdom.
You have to explore the beautiful world to find stars and return them to their constellations. Along the way, you’ll encounter friendly spirits and socialize with like-minded players from around the world.
Price: Free
30. Otter Ocean
Kids and adults alike will love this cute family-friendly game. It’s all about finding cute otters, feeding them, and making them dive for treasures. I found it calming to play yet also adventurous. The cute Kawaii graphics add to the appeal.
It’ll make you return every day to find something new, collect food and pearls gathered by your pet otters. There are many new secrets to uncover and challenges to take up as you navigate this dreamy world.
Price: Free
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