What are the best offline games? As much as we love a good online session, there’s no denying that online gaming brings with it a host of problems that classic offline games never struggle with. The fact that you need to specifically find offline games when you’re in the subway or on a flight is ridiculous. Luckily, there are a lot of great offline games out there, whether you’re playing on iOS or Android.
So, we’ve collected together our favorites, from quick arcadey fixes to hefty, near-console quality titles. Many of these are among the best mobile games overall, and funnily enough, a few of them are some of the best Apple Arcade games too. For good measure, we’ve also included a decent spread of the best free mobile games. Either way, from life sims to roguelikes, we’ve got something for everyone here.
Here are some of the best offline games on mobile:
Stardew Valley
Stardew Valley is one of the most heartwarming success stories in the indie space. It takes you to a small town, gives you a little farm, and slowly unfurls into a sprawling and deep sim that’s just as much about parsnips as it is human connection.
With opportunities to build relationships, explore dungeons, and enjoy fishing, there’s always something to do. The Android version is also fantastic, especially with a controller. You can turn your mobile into a farming powerhouse!
Dead Cells
Dead Cells sent a wave through the roguelike space when it arrived. With silky pixel art, slick and ferocious combat, and engaging gameplay, it’s an indie classic through and through.
While playing on mobile may not be the absolute best way to experience it, the pixel art shines on smaller screens. Plus, it’s part of Apple Arcade if you’re a subscriber!
Bloons Tower Defence 6
Bloons Tower Defence was a huge part of many childhoods. You can relive that magic with the latest entry in the series, where you must stop balloons from reaching the end of a track.
This game has the same fun setup as previous versions, and it’s available on Apple Arcade. Just watch out; it’s a little too much fun!
Alto’s Adventure
Alto’s Adventure offers hours of snowboarding fun with an easy arcade-style hook! Glide down the mountain, pull off tricks, and collect items while rounding up your llamas.
This game is perfect for shorter commutes, making it ideal for quick subway rides! You can also check out its sequel, Alto’s Odyssey, for even more adventure.
Mini Metro
If you enjoy city-building and strategy games, Mini Metro is a must-try! This minimalist subway-building puzzle game lets you design subway systems for cities worldwide.
Each game is beautifully designed and features an amazing soundtrack, making it a top pick for mobile gamers.
Civilization VI
Civilization VI is a grand strategy game that takes players from ancient times to the first inhabitants of Mars. It offers a broad historical sweep and is enjoyable for strategy lovers.
With many hours of gameplay available, it’s easy to see why this game is a fan favorite. The mobile version is excellent, offering a comparable experience to the computer version!
Dragon Quest
Dragon Quest is a legendary JRPG series that you can play on mobile. While the original games may feel a bit dated, they offer a delightful journey for players.
It’s worth the investment, especially since you can spend hundreds of hours exploring all the games in the series!
Final Fantasy
The Final Fantasy series has a range of games available on mobile. While the mobile ports can be contentious, they provide a decent experience for new players.
Playing titles like FFVI on mobile is a treat, allowing you to dive into a world of adventure wherever you go!
Grid Autosport
Grid Autosport is a racing sim that stands out on portable consoles. It offers a wide array of cars and game modes, making it a must-try for racing enthusiasts.
If you’re looking for realism in racing games, Grid Autosport is your best bet on mobile!
Danganronpa
The Danganronpa games are a unique blend of mystery and adventure, taking players into a world where school kids are trapped in a reality TV murder game.
These games are weird and engaging, making them a cult favorite among fans. If you want to dive into a thrilling narrative, Danganronpa is a great choice!
For more recommendations, check out our lists of the best fishing games, best volleyball games, and best FPS games. They’ve all got a few offline games in them too.
