Mobile gaming has become a powerhouse in the gaming industry, offering a diverse array of experiences for players on the go. Whether you’re on a road trip, killing time at the doctor’s office, or need a distraction from everyday life, the world of mobile gaming has something for everyone.
Here are the highest-rated mobile games of the last decade, according to their Metacritic score.
Catalyst Black: Action Shooter
Metascore: 79
Catalyst Black: Action Shooter stands out as a remarkable mobile game, combining fast-paced action with strategic depth and stunning visuals. Developed by Super Evil Megacorp, the creators of the critically acclaimed Vainglory, the game offers players an immersive multiplayer experience on their mobile devices. And, with its diverse roster of heroes, the game caters to a wide range of preferences and strategies.
iMore said, “With its weapon customization, multiple game modes, and quick load times, Catalyst Black is a fun online multiplayer to experience with friends. There are in-game purchases, but they aren’t necessary to enjoy the game.”
Fantasian
Metascore: 80
Fantasian immerses players in a rich world filled with mystery, adventure, and unforgettable characters. Its unique diorama-style visuals, meticulously handcrafted and seamlessly integrated with modern technology, create a mesmerizing aesthetic that sets it apart in the mobile gaming landscape. Plus, with its compelling narrative, strategic turn-based battles, and immersive exploration, Fantasian delivers an unparalleled RPG experience that captivates players from start to finish.
Multiplayer.it said, “Fantasian is a love letter to the classic JRPG genre and one of its best evolutions ever. Mistwalker succeeds in injecting new life in an (apparently) old shell and makes this game shine both in aesthetics and gameplay.”
Pocket Card Jockey: Ride On!
Metascore: 82
Developed by Game Freak, the creators of Pokémon, this game combines addictive card mechanics with strategic racing tactics to create a uniquely compelling experience. Players must navigate through intense solitaire matches to propel their horse forward on the racetrack, all while managing resources and making split-second decisions to secure victory.
Pocket Tactics said, “Pocket Card Jockey: Ride On is the best card game on Apple Arcade, the best sports game on Apple Arcade, and, well, it might just be the best game on Apple Arcade. With exhilarating mechanics, hours of content, and idiosyncrasy like no other sports or card game, there’s no reason not to try your luck with the ponies.”
Hello Kitty Island Adventure
Metascore: 83
There’s no question Hello Kitty Island Adventure is one of the best mobile games out there. Catering to fans of the iconic Hello Kitty franchise, this game immerses players in a vibrant and whimsical world filled with adorable characters and engaging activities. From decorating Hello Kitty’s home to participating in fun mini-games and quests, players are treated to delightful content that captures the essence of the beloved brand.
Touch Arcade said, “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I think Hello Kitty Island Adventure is one of my favorite mobile games of this year so far. It’s so much more than I expected it to be, so much more than it needed to be, and I genuinely appreciate just how compelling it is from head to toe. I’ve been vocal amongst my peers about how Apple Arcade needs more reasons to subscribe these days. Well, here’s one extremely good reason. Butters was right the whole time.”
Marvel Snap
Metascore: 85
Developed by Marvel Entertainment, this game combines the thrill of collectible card games with the excitement of augmented reality technology. Players can assemble their dream team of iconic Marvel superheroes and villains, collecting and upgrading their cards to unleash powerful abilities in intense battles. And, with its stunning graphics, intuitive controls, and deep strategy mechanics, Marvel Snap offers a really engaging experience that keeps players coming back for more.
NME said, “Simple, nuanced, design makes Marvel Snap an essential play not just for card game fans but for anyone that might have a few minutes to kill. It won’t turn every player into a card shark, but it’s bound to win fans in unusual places, and with a low barrier to entry you’re really only hurting yourself if you don’t give it a go.”
Rocket League Sideswipe
Metascore: 86
Rocket League Sideswipe combines fast-paced action with competitive gameplay, making it one of the best mobile games out there. With its intuitive touch controls, players can perform epic aerial maneuvers, score amazing goals, and compete against friends or other players in thrilling online matches. Not to mention, the game’s vibrant graphics, dynamic arenas, and customizable cars ensure a visually stunning and immersive experience on mobile devices.
Gamezebo said, “It might not be the direct port of Rocket League that some were hoping for, but Rocket League: Sideswipe captures and distills what made the home version of the game so great. And in doing so creates one of the finest mobile multiplayer experiences we’ve seen for a while.”
NETFLIX Poinpy
Metascore: 87
From the creator of the award-winning game, Downwell, Netflix’s Poinpy is definitely a fan favorite. As a vertical climber, players bounce up and dodge the bad guys while also feeding the blue beast. It’s fun, simple to play, and extremely satisfying.
TouchArcade said, “It’s an Apple Arcade-like choice, but the price is fair bit higher. Is Poinpy worth that? It’s a question I can’t answer for you, but I can tell you that this is a superb mobile game. It fits the format perfectly, it’s easy and satisfying to dig into, and like Downwell it seems to give you back more the more you put into it. It’s a reason to pay attention to Netflix’s gaming initiative, and is honestly a fair bit more exciting than anything we’ve seen on Apple Arcade of late.”
Read More: 10 Challenging Card Games You Can Play on Mobile
If Found…
AnnaPurna Interactive
Metascore: 88
If Found… is regarded as one of the best mobile games simply because of its emotional depth! Players unravel the story of Kasio, a young woman returning to her rural Irish home, as she reflects on her past and navigates the challenges of identity, relationships, and loss. With its hand-drawn art style, evocative music, and branching narrative paths, If Found… offers a deeply immersive and thought-provoking experience that resonates long after the journey ends.
GameSpew said, “I absolutely adored my time spent with If Found… I knew within the first few minutes that it was going to be something truly special, earning a place in my favorite games of all time. The art from Liadh Young is stunning, the music sounds and feels like a dream and its story is unique, provocative and wonderful. Very few video games have made a true and permanent mark on my heart, but If Found… has done just that.”
Read More: 10 Mobile Games That Will Make You Feel Nostalgic
League of Legends: Wild Rift
Metascore: 89
League of Legends: Wild Rift earned its place as the best mobile game by seamlessly translating the beloved PC experience to mobile devices. In fact, this mobile adaptation retains the strategic depth, fast-paced action, and competitive gameplay that fans love, while optimizing controls and mechanics for touchscreen play. And, with its intuitive touch controls, stunning visuals, and expansive roster of champions, Wild Rift offers an immersive and engaging experience for players on the go.
148Apps said, “MOBAs aren’t easy to get into, but League of Legends: Wild Rift makes it easier than it’s ever been. Riot Games somehow managed to make its flagship game streamlined and accessible all while maintaining the depth and nuance that keeps League of Legends matches interesting even after hundreds of hours of playing. Even without the full cast or a breadth of modes, Wild Rift is clearly the new king of mobile MOBAs.”
