The best RPGs for Android and iOS
The RPG (role-playing game) genre happens to have taken iOS and Android devices by storm, regardless of whether you prefer hack-and-slash or the more classic RPGs that are based more on the pen-and-paper template. Here is a list of what we think make up the best RPG titles on both Android and iOS devices.
In RPG games, the player normally plays the role of an adventurer in a fantasy setting (which might also include science fiction, etc). Many RPGs for Android and iOS focus on the development arc of the protagonist, interaction within a party, and a sophisticated combat system. There are also select RPGs that bring gloriously mindless Diablo-style carnage to the fore, which isn't a bad thing at all.
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As always, our "Best of" list is a subjective one, in which we always look at what other people rate as well as what you recommend us. However, such a list of the best titles is never complete. Hence, please leave us your recommendation of RPGs in the comments and we might add them to this list in the next update.
The first three titles on our "Best of RPG" list - Monster Hunter Stories, Genshin Impact and Evoland 2, happen to be new additions with this update. Have fun!
Jump to:
- Monster Hunter Stories
- Genshin Impact
- Evoland 2
- The Quest
- Arcane Quest 3
- Crashlands
- The Banner Saga
- Sdorica Sunset
- Baldur's Gate
- Star Wars: KOTOR
- Tempest
- Knights of Pen and Paper 2
- Eternium: Mage and Minions
- Final Fantasy IX
- The Bard's Tale
- Pocket Mortys
Monster Hunter Stories
Anyone who has enjoyed playing J-RPGs on the Nintendo 3DS is sure to love Monster Hunter Stories. You can look forward to amazing graphics drawn in the most beautiful Japanese style.
The game is turn-based and, as the title suggests, there are tons of monsters to hunt. So if you fancy hunting down dragons, Monster Hunter Stories, which was ported from the original 3DS game to iOS and Android, you should absolutely give it a chance.
- 4.6 stars on Google Play / 4.5 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: $19.99
- In-app purchases: None
Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact is still a fairly new game and one that blurs the lines between RPGs and adventure games. The action RPG game with gacha mechanics looks a bit like Zelda: Breath of the Wild, where you roam through endless worlds on both iOS and Android.
When creating the party, you will need a bit of luck in order to have a strong team. Perhaps you don't have to include every single person you come across into your party, which will certainly mean making wise decisions. The graphics are really beautiful to look at, which is why we also included it in our list of games with the best graphics.
- 4.6 stars on Google Play / 4.7 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: Free
- In-app purchases: Yes
Evoland 1 and 2
Why was the great Evoland series, which comprises parts 1 and 2, missing on this list until now? In this RPG, you will play your way through the entire gaming history on your iOS or Android device.
The graphics will correspond to the respective video game eras across both parts, where you begin in a monochrome environment while ending up with really amazing graphics later on. There is plenty of fun to be obtained from this very versatile title, and it is absolutely worth a look.
- 4.2 stars on Google Play / 4.5 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: Varies
- In-app purchases: None
- Evoland 1 for Android ($2.99)
- Evoland 1 for iOS ($2.99)
- Evoland 2 for Android ($8.49)
- Evoland 2 for iOS ($5.99)
The Quest
Old-school open-world adventure
If you're old enough to remember the early games from the Elder Scrolls series such as Daggerfall from Redshift Games, this game will definitely bring back some fond memories. It's an old-school first-person open-world RPG with hand-drawn graphics and a great story, although the rather unimaginative title could have done with some improvement.
The best thing about The Quest is the player's freedom. The game doesn't force you through a linear development path, allowing you to explore the vast fantasy world at your own pace and basically do what you want. You are not forced to complete quests in any particular order, and the choices you make as a player can lead to many different results - changing history as well as relationships with NPCs.
As for your own player's character, there is a selection of races and classes that will provide you with bonuses on selected skills. However, the game will allow you to develop your character as you see fit, letting you move your character in the direction that will let you enjoy the game most.
- 4.5 stars on Google Play / 4.5 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price:$7.99
- In-app purchases: None
Arcane Quest 3
For tabletop game fans
If you love classic tabletop RPGs, then you should definitely check out Arcane Quest 3. Just as though you were at a gaming table, this is a turn-based game where you can create your own character. Bearing that in mind, you can compete against orcs and other enemies.
There is also a classic story mode where you fight for the honor of your guild. A modern-day twist is the inclusion of multiplayer capability in real-time. If you prefer, you can also create your own quests.
- 4.1 stars on Google Play / 4.7 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: Free
- In-app purchases: Yes
Crashlands
Fun space-based RPG
Do RPG and aliens mix? Apparently so, as Crashlands combines both elements and spices it up with a good dash of humor. Playing the role of space trucker Flux Dabes, you crash-landed on a planet and will have to use your wits to survive in the new environment with the ultimate goal of leaving the planet.
This means you have to repair your spacecraft and tame wild animals that are out to get you. You can also build weapons using the bodies of your opponents and can receive more than 500 items to aid you in your quest.
There is also a combat system in Crashlands, where you use your skills against other opponents. If you like, you can also control the game using an external controller.
- 4.4 stars on Google Play / 4.4 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: $6.99
- In-app purchases: No
The Banner Saga
Old-school RPG The Banner Saga not only has an exciting plot that forces you to make difficult decisions, but also a challenging, turn-based combat system to keep you glued. Other plus points are the solid graphics and great soundtrack which complements the atmosphere of the game very well.
The compelling story of The Banner Saga is one of survival, conflict, and hope, where it will always have a special place in my heart. Fans who have quit the game would be well advised to check out the sequel Banner Saga 2 as well.
- 4.2 stars on Google Play / 4.7 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: $9.99
- In-app purchases: Yes
Sdorica
The first thing you should notice about Sdorica is the unmistakable, colorful drawing style. Elaborate cutscenes are used to propel the story forward and bring the world to life. Even if it's not really my style, Sdorica still managed to pull me into one sweet fantasy world. There are also some excellent voice-overs who did amazing jobs breathing life into the protagonists.
The plot is essentially told through a series of conversations in-between fights, which is the main segment of the gameplay. The fight is basically a turn-based puzzle mini-game. Two sides will face each other, with the player pushing colored balls around to trigger various attacks, spells, and abilities.
- 4.3 stars on Google Play / 4.7 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: Free
- In-app purchases: Yes
Baldur's Gate II
Baldur's Gate is one of the biggest and most famous RPG franchises that ever existed on the PC. Of course, it had to make its way to Android and iOS smartphones and tablets, accompanied by graphical and practical improvements as well as new content courtesy of Beamdog. Create your hero, escape the clutches of the evil wizard Irenicus, recruit from a pool of unforgettable companions, and wander through a vast world in search of revenge and new adventures.
Gamers looking to experience the hero's journey from a weak Level 1 nobody to a demigod-like adventurer should check out Baldur's Gate: Enhanced Edition, which is the first game in the series. Although it is not quite as good as the sequel, both combine to create a unique, epic experience.
If you have played your way through the game, there is another expansion that ties in with the Siege of Dragonspear, which is also available on iOS and Android. At just under eleven euros, this price for the expansion is a bit steep for what is on offer, but it is still a mus-have for fans of the series.
- 4.2 stars on Google Play / 4.7 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: $9.99
- In-app purchases: Yes
- Baldur's Gate II for Android
- Baldur's Gate II for iOS
- Baldur's Gate for Android
- Baldur's Gate for iOS
- Siege of Dragonspear for Android
- Siege of Dragonspear for iOS
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR)
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic is one of the classic titles among RPGs. Also affectionately known as KOTOR by fans, the timeline harks back to around 4,000 years before the Star Wars films. The story is told from the perspective of the Jedi Knight Revan.
The game corresponds closely to the PC original and therefore, it also appeals to fans of the older game. It will take some getting used to the controls and gameplay, but over time you will notice that the controls work quite well. Some of the control surfaces are a bit small because they have been ported over directly from the PC. However, it is still not too bad and the fun factor is not diminished in any way.
- 4.4 stars on Google Play / 4.0 stars on the Apple App Store
- Preis: $9.99
- In-app purchases: None
Tempest
The best pirate RPG for Android
While most RPGs often operate in fantasy worlds, Tempest is defined by the fact that it is set in the realm of pirates. You will have to duke it out with other pirates on the high seas, complete quests, and upgrade your ship while looking out to recruit better crew members.
Controls for this open-world game can be rather complex and overwhelming at the beginning, but they are easily mastered after just a few minutes of play. The difficulty level continues to be challenging though, which doesn't make making money on the high seas any easier.
You will need to upgrade your equipment and complete harder missions in order to do so. But that's more than offset by the fantastic graphics and playability of this RPG. If you orefer, you can get a taste of the game with the lite version.
- 4.7 stars on Google Play / 4.2 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: $13.99 (Android) / $7.99 (iOS)
- In-app purchases: Yes
Knights of Pen and Paper 2
Knights of Pen and Paper 2 combines real "role play" with the virtual one. The free RPG focuses on a group of RPG fans who have gathered to play a game similar to Dungeons & Dragons. When you indulge in the free-to-play game, you will always be able to view the actions of the group and the dungeon master.
Containing such interesting game mechanics give the game a charming old-school atmosphere, which underlines the now more common retro pixel look.
- 4.5 stars on Google Play / 4.4 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: Free
- In-app purchases: Yes
Eternium
Fans of action RPGs like Diablo 3 have come to the right place: Eternium relies on beautiful 3D graphics and plenty of action to keep you hooked. You can choose from three different character classes. The role-playing system is not too complicated, where it allows you to develop different skills in addition to extensive item management, which include sockets and enchantments.
In the first few levels, new functions are gradually unlocked in order to let you concentrate on the battles right from the very first minute.
- 4.8 stars on Google Play / 4.8 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: Free
- In-app purchases: Yes
Final Fantasy IX
The first Final Fantasy was released in Japan way back in 1987 for the Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Ever since then, numerous sequels have appeared across many platforms with the series has now arrived at Final Fantasy XV (2016). The RPG series is not quite ready for Android just yet though. Developer Square Enix has long ported some titles to Android and iOS platforms such as Final Fantasy IX.
While the first few titles relied on fairly simple graphics that are almost comical, the newer ones, in particular, arrive in appealing 3D graphics.
However, they also happen to be one of the more expensive games available. You pay $20.99 for just one game, but in doing so, you would be able to enjoy a similar gaming experience as though you were gaming on the PC, albeit in a portable format with a long playtime.
While there's not much to criticize about the iOS version, it is noticeable on Android that Square Enix hasn't updated the app for almost two years now. On many current smartphones, the game no longer seems to be playable or is only possible after a lot of fiddling around. That's why the rating in the Play Store has dropped to 2.3 stars. Considering the price you pay for it, it is really absurd that there is no improvement here!
- 2.3 stars on Google Play / 4.2 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: $20.99
- In-app purchases: No
The Bard’s Tale
If you are looking for a humorous RPG for Android, The Bard's Tale is the perfect title for you! This Android-based RPG doesn't take itself too seriously and the gameplay is really fun with plenty of hilarious actions.
You will definitely have your sides in stitches with the ironic sayings of the bard and the narrator, not to mention the singing and dancing interludes. It is also lots of fun to accompany the likable antihero through numerous dangerous adventures. No question about it: The Bard's Tale is probably the funniest RPG that you can currently find on mobile devices.
- 4.7 stars on Google Play / 4.7 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: $2.99
- In-app purchases: Yes
Rick and Morty: Pocket Mortys
If you like the ingenious adult series Rick and Morty and have some love for Pokémon, Pocket Morty will definitely be worth every penny. Admittedly, there are no real surprises in terms of gameplay and, above all, the combat system will be RPG-based here.
The player will spend most of his/her training his/her Mortys, which are combat units so that they can be sent into the arena against other versions of the series' hero. As a result, your own fighters will continue to rise in level, unlocking new extras along the way with each success.
Why you should get involved with this RPG despite the lack of innovation? It is simply due to the excellent atmosphere and the ingeniously wacky humor. Exploring different dimensions with Morty and his crazy grandpa alone is entertaining enough.
However, it recently received some one-star ratings for the Android version, which claims that the game freezes halfway, doing away with all the earlier progress if you had not saved prior. Hopefully future updates will fix this bug, and we will still recommend it for now.
- 4.1 stars on Google Play / 4.2 stars on the Apple App Store
- Price: Free, contains ads
- In-app purchases: Yes
That's it for now! This list has been updated as of June 2021, and as always, we are grateful for your recommendations if you know of other RPGs for iOS and Android that you think should have made the list here.
Since this post is constantly updated, comments below the article may appear out of context as we leave the old comments as they are.
Crashlands — best of the best :)
Don't play Vampire's Fall: Origins. Too much grinding to find in game gold. Have to purchase crystals just to open chests you find. Don't waste your time like I did. Found this list looking for a replacement.