In 2022, there were over 2.69 billion active mobile gamers. All AAA-rated mobile games, like Genshin Impact, amassed over $150 million in revenue.
We skimmed through the Android and iOS app store and listed out the 30 best mobile games of 2022 right now for gamers like us.
You will find some of the top mobile games from different categories. We’ve listed them based on their reviews and overall popularity.
Read on!
30 Most Popular Mobile Games This Year
30. Hero Wars
- Developed By – NEXTERS GLOBAL LTD
- Rating – 4.5 (Android)/ 4.5 (iPhone)
- Play Hero Wars on Android
- Play Hero Wars on iOS
If you are into mobile games, you must have come across ads for Hero Wars. However, the problem-solving gameplay which the promo depicts is just a tiny portion of the game.
In the game, you have to build a team of heroes and lead them through a series of dungeons where they encounter opponents at each turn. You have to keep upgrading them and unlock heroes to move ahead in your quest.
The gameplay is simple and downright addictive. As you level up you encounter tougher opponents and have to employ tactics to choose your heroes properly.
29. Backrooms: Shoot Them All
- Developed By – playducky.com
- Rating – 4.5 (Android)
- Play Backrooms – Shoot them all on Android
Imagine being attacked by zombie-like creatures while you are trying to find your way out of a labyrinth. That’s Backrooms for you in a nutshell.
In the game, you are part of a military team trying to find scientists after they went missing when a portal to a parallel world was opened.
Now you have to kill these scary alien invaders who tend to pop out from nowhere and make it to the scientists!
This is one of the best android games of 2022. Go for it if you are into FPS jump-scare games. The downside, it’s not available for iPhone.
28. Plants vs. Zombies 2
- Developed By – ELECTRONIC ARTS
- Rating – 4.4 (Android)/ 4.7 (iPhone)
- Play Plants vs. Zombies 2 on Android
- Play Plants vs. Zombies 2 on iOS
Plants vs Zombies is a classic tower defense strategy game. You have to place plants with special abilities and stop zombies in your backyard. You can choose from different plants and place them to the best of your abilities.
As you level up you will encounter tougher zombies and invasion scenarios. You can upgrade plants to make their attacks more effective.
All in all Plants vs Zombies is a perfect strategy game to pass your time. It is very popular amongst mobile gamers of all age groups.
27. Daily Themed Crossword Puzzles
- Developed By – PlaySimple Games
- Rating – 4.6 (Android)/ 4.5 (iPhone)
- Play Daily Themed Crossword Puzzles on Android
- Play Daily Themed Crossword Puzzles on iOS
It’s not just another boring crossword puzzle that tests your elitist vocabulary. In this puzzle, you select from various themes like movies, music, sports, technology, history, etc.
You get to solve crosswords based on the themes you selected. A new puzzle is added every day to keep things fresh.
A perfect single-player offline game to jog your brain.
26. Raid: Shadow Legends
- Developed By – Plarium Global Ltd
- Rating – 4.2 (Android)/ 4.7 (iPhone)
- Play Raid: Shadow Legends on Android
- Play Raid: Shadow Legends on iOS
Based in Teleria, this dark fantasy RPG lets you be part of one of 15 factions. The goal is to create your own army of legendary warriors and train them for battle.
Upgrade their specs and turn them into the most vicious raiding party. The game has single and multiplayer modes.
If you are looking for a turn-based RPG with stunning visuals, Raid is just the one for you. However, its reward system is thrifty.
25. Forge of Empires: Build a City
- Developed By – InnoGames
- Rating – 4.2 (Android)/ 4.6 (iPhone)
- Play Forge of Empires on Android
- Play Forge of Empires on iOS
In Forge of Empires, you start with a small settlement, gather resources, and perform research to further develop your settlement. With time you will pass through different eras of civilization and finally to a fictional sci-fi realm.
Engage in turn-based battles with different opponents from different nations. All in all, it is one of the most fun-filled mobile games.
The gameplay is great and you can experience it on a tablet and PC too. However, if patience is not your forte, I won’t recommend this.
24. Mech Arena
- Developed By – Plarium Global Ltd
- Rating – 4.5 (Android)/ 4.9 (iPhone)
- Play Mech Arena on Android
- Play Mech Arena on iOS
Remember the Jaegers from Pacific Rim? This game lets you choose a robot of your choice and battle against your opponents.
Yes, this is an oversimplification of what Mech Arena has to offer. You can customize your mech from the ground up, use intimidating skins, choose a role your mech is going to play, and finally start a fight.
Leverage your tactical ability and engage in PvP team battles. No holds barred. Fight it out with your friend, or create a team to battle it out with players across the globe.
23. Shadowgun Legends
- Developed By – MADFINGER Games
- Rating – 4.4 (Android)/ 4.8 (iPhone)
- Play Shadowgun Legends on Android
- Play Shadowgun Legends on iOS
Halo meets Fortnite in this. If you are looking to hunt some aliens in space Shadowgun Legends is the game for you. It is a fast-paced FPS game that lets you play single-player quests, PvP, and in co-op modes.
The game has stunning graphics and immersive gameplay. Choose from a plethora of ammunition and suits. Upgrade them as you battle it out with some nasty aliens in space.
The in-game ads and instructions might seem troublesome in the beginning but as the game grows on you, you will feel at home.
22. Dead Cells
- Developed By – Playdigious
- Rating – 4.4 (Android)/ 4.8 (iPhone)
- Play Dead Cells on Android
- Play Dead Cells on iOS
Dead Cells is a hash and slash game and reminded me of the good old Prince of Persia days. You play the role of a failed alchemist who has to explore through dungeons and castles on a gloomy island.
Face new opponents and bosses with dynamic 2D action. Unlock new levels and discover new powers.
You can choose to explore for artifacts or just rust your way to fight the boss.
21. Genshin Impact
- Developed By – COGNOSPHERE PTE. LTD.
- Rating – 4.2 (Android)/ 4.4 (iPhone)
- Play Genshin Impact on Android
- Play Genshin Impact on iOS
Genshin Impact is somewhat inspired by The Legend of Zelda. But the depiction of an anime-based fantasy world is something you have to experience first-hand.
This free-to-play mobile game has some of the most stunning visuals and soothing soundtracks for an ultra-immersive gaming experience. You can swim in a river, climb a mountain and simply explore the landscape.
It is one of the best iPhone games and earned the Apple Editor’s choice too.
If you are a sucker for anime and looking for an action RPG, look no further.
20. Monument Valley
- Developed By – ustwo games
- Rating – 4.8 (Android)/ 4.7 (iPhone)
- Play Monument Valley on Android
- Play Monument Valley on iOS
Things you will notice when you first play Monument valley is its surreal architecture and the beautiful and soothing color gradient. This single-player puzzle game has one of the most original gameplay textures.
And your task is to guide the princess through hidden paths, optical illusions, and mysterious monuments. Also, you have to best the Crow People in your path.
The game is ranked #8 among puzzle games in the Apple app store.
19. Jetpack Joyride
- Developed By – Halfbrick Studios
- Rating – 4.6 (Android)/ 4.7 (iPhone)
- Play Jetpack Joyride on Android
- Play Jetpack Joyride on iOS
Play Barry Steakfries in this endless runner where he puts on a jetpack, evades hurdles, collects coins and cool artifacts. Jetpack Joyride has been ruling the app stores for quite some time now.
The latest version of the jetpack has some cool powerups. With the right power-up, you can transform the jetpack into a bird that shoots money, a metallic dragon, and even a bullet-powered jetpack.
The only downside is once you crash, you have to begin from the start. No savepoints.
18. Slay the Spire
- Developed By – Humble Games
- Rating – 3.8 (Android)/ 4.1 (iPhone)
- Play Slay the Spire on Android
- Play Slay the Spire on iOS
This is probably the best single-player deck-builder game. You can select from hundreds of cards and use them properly to defeat your opponent.
The aim is to use the card that is most effective against your opponent and then climb the Spire. The gameplay will lead you to bizarre relics and peculiar creatures.
Even though it is a #1 card game, there are some loading issues when you shuffle between apps and return to the game. Apart from that, it’s all aces.
17. Kingdom Rush – Tower Defense
- Developed By – Ironhide S.A.
- Rating – 4.7 (Android)/ 4.8 (iPhone)
- Play Kingdom Rush – Tower Defense on Android
- Play Kingdom Rush – Tower Defense on iOS
Believe me when I tell you this. Kingdom Rush Tower Defence is short, sweet, and worth every byte of memory.
You have to strategically erect weapons so that you can protect your tower from foreign invasion. You can pick and choose upgrades but strategically placing the weapons is the key.
Choose from different weapons having different damage capabilities and you upgrade them as you level up. It’s simple, yet addictive.
16. Alto’s Odyssey
- Developed By – Snowman
- Rating – 4.4 (Android)/ 4.4 (iPhone)
- Play Alto’s Odyssey on Android
- Play Alto’s Odyssey on iOS
Monument Valley and Alto’s Odyssey use the same type of 2D pastel graphics. While the former was more of a riddle, Alto’s Odyssey is more of a single-player infinity run game.
It reminds me of Temple Run and Subway surfer with much better graphics and a soothing soundtrack. You have to ride a sledge, perform combo moves and cross as many terrains as possible without stumbling.
As you level up and perform combo moves your speed increases and it gets tougher to dodge hurdles. You are going to have a lot of fun playing this mobile game.
15. Gris
- Developed By – DevolverDigital
- Rating – 4.3 (Android)/ 4.4 (iPhone)
- Play Gris on Android
- Play Gris on iOS
Gris is a visual spectacle and an artistic masterpiece, to say the least. This is the story of a grieving girl who is passing through this emotional reality that she conjured on her own.
Her dress depicts her emotions and grants her new abilities. Follow her as she faces different hurdles and dodges past each.
This is a casual single-player offline game. Put on your headphones for a truly immersive experience. Definitely one of the best mobile games of 2022.
14. Wayward Souls
- Developed By – Noodlecake
- Rating – 4 (Android)/ 4.5 (iPhone)
- Play Wayward Souls on Android
- Play Wayward Souls on iOS
Wayward Souls is an offline action-adventure mobile game. It will remind you of any other 16-bit game thanks to the pixelated graphics. But honestly, that adds to its allure.
The game is meant for playthroughs as levels are generated randomly. You can choose from 6 different characters who have their own set of skills and equipment.
Unlock new areas, develop new strategies and increase your skill as you play through.
13. Grid Autosport
- Developed By – Feral Interactive
- Rating – 4.3 (Android)/ 4.4 (iPhone)
- Play Grid Autosport on Android
- Play Grid Autosport on iOS
If you are looking for the best mobile racing game out there, it doesn’t get any better than this. Grid Autosport brings the best racing simulation where you can race in 100 different circuits on 100 different cars.
Exotic, Muscle, and Regular, the game has all car types. You can also download additional cars and soundtracks for free.
The controller is customizable and you can opt for tilt control or use the gamepad. The game engine rendering is top-notch and realistic. This is one of the best iPhone games in racing.
12. Reigns
- Developed By – DevolverDigital
- Rating – 4.5 (Android)/ 4.8 (iPhone)
- Play Reigns on Android
- Play Reigns on iOS
Reigns is a perfect example of a narrative-led strategy game. In the game, you will be a monarch and you can choose to be a righteous ruler or a cruel one.
All you do is swipe your cards and make decisions. You will receive counsel from various advisors, allies, and even enemies. Your decision will dictate your fate.
Just make sure you expand your kingdom while maintaining yourself on the throne.
11. League of Legends: Wild Rift
- Developed By – Riot Games
- Rating – 3.6 (Android)/ 4.1 (iPhone)
- Play League of Legends: Wild Rift on Android
- Play League of Legends: Wild Rift on iOS
League of Legends is a 5v5 MOBA strategy game. Choose your heroes and face off against your opponents.
Perfect your skill shots and combo kills and start your blitzkrieg to make your way to the top slots. The mobile view of the game gives you a bird’s eye view of your battle while the map shows other players and artifacts.
The mobile version of the game doesn’t compromise with the gameplay. Also, you can earn all champions for free just by playing the game.
10. Lara Croft GO
- Developed By – SQUARE ENIX LTD
- Rating – 4.7 (Android)/ 4.8 (iPhone)
- Play Lara Croft GO on Android
- Play Lara Croft GO on iOS
You as Lara Croft are trying to uncover the myth of the Queen of Venom. In this turn-based puzzle game solve over 100 puzzles to reach the artifact.
The game has stunning visuals and a captivating soundtrack with easy swipe-to-move control. You get a bird’s eye view of Lara dodging each trap.
This different take on Lara Croft was well-received by players and critics alike and I’d recommend a download now!
9. Rymdkapsel
- Developed By – grapefrukt games
- Rating – 4.4 (Android)/ 4.2 (iPhone)
- Play Rymdkapsel on Android
- Play Rymdkapsel on iOS
You have to create the best space station using Tetris blocks. This is a meditative puzzle game where you can focus on building the perfect space base and not worry about defending against enemies or invading new territories.
You just have to put your minions to work and try to create the perfect space station.
Rymdkapsel is a real-time strategy and puzzle hybrid.
8. Clash Royale
- Developed By – Supercell
- Rating – 4.4 (Android)/ 4.6 (iPhone)
- Play Clash Royale on Android
- Play Clash Royale on iOS
Clash Royale is a real-time multiplayer battle game. You have to build your deck of fighters and participate with players in a two-lane battle.
Keep shuffling your deck and upgrade your fighters to defeat stronger opponents. You can even join a clan and participate in wars.
It is one of the top free multiplayer strategy games.
7. Device 6
- Developed By – Simogo AB
- Rating – 4.5 (iPhone)
- Play Device 6 on iOS
Yes we already have a narrative-led adventure game, Reigns, but Device 6 is a mobile game like no other, even though it follows the same game engine and logical progression.
You play the character of Anna who is suffering from Amnesia, and is trying to find out who she is and why she is on a mysterious island.
In the game, you have to play out texts and pick up the trail of breadcrumbs to solve your own mystery.
6. LIMBO/ Playdead’s INSIDE
- Developed By – Playdead
- Rating – 4.5 (Android)/ 4.3 (iPhone)
- Play LIMBO on Android
- Play Playdead’s INSIDE on iOS
This is one of the best indie mobile games around bar none. It’s a horror puzzle game where you have to lead a boy through the dark and help him solve puzzles on the way.
You will be moving through a dark forest, dystopian city, and underground laboratories. It doesn’t have many jump-scare moments but it’s definitely eerie.
Among the top mobile games, I recommend this too for a serious but light-minded time spent.
5. Super Hexagon
- Developed By – Terry Cavanagh
- Rating – 4.6 (Android)/ 4.5 (iPhone)
- Play Super Hexagon on Android
- Play Super Hexagon on iOS
This game will test your reflex. The goal is to align a hexagon in a certain way as the walls around it close in.
The game is backed with a pulsating electronic soundtrack, and you have to get in sync with the tune as well as track the walls to make your way through.
It’s a fast-paced single-player game that you can play offline.
4. The Room
- Developed By – Fireproof Studios Limited
- Rating – 4.8 (Android)/ 4.8 (iPhone)
- Play The Room on Android
- Play The Room on iOS
The Room is a puzzle adventure game beautifully wrapped in a 3D environment. You have to solve physical puzzles and move ahead in this mystery game.
The game was ranked #1 in over 80 countries and has won multiple awards.
It is an offline single-player mobile game and I would highly recommend it.
3. Pokémon GO
- Developed By – Niantic, Inc.
- Rating – 4.3 (Android)/ 4 (iPhone)
- Play Pokémon GO on Android
- Play Pokémon GO on iOS
Pokemon Go needs no introduction. It has over 100 million downloads in the Android app store alone. It was an instant hit among Pokemon fans and lets you catch, evolve, and battle Pokemons.
You can explore the world using Augmented Reality and capture Pokemons while you are roaming in the physical world. You can even participate in competitive multiplayer battles to rank up.
The game is still going strong and is one of the most popular mobile games in 2022. Niantic is also doing a fabulous job by providing quick updates and bug fixes to elevate the gaming experience.
2. Call of Duty: Mobile
- Developed By – Activision Publishing, Inc.
- Rating – 4.3 (Android)/ 4.7 (iPhone)
- Play Call of Duty on Android
- Play Call of Duty on iOS
Call of Duty Mobile is arguably the best FPS competitive multiplayer mobile game. It has different multiplayer modes like Domination, Kill-confirmed, and Team Deathmatch.
COD: Mobile even has an extensive Battle Royal Mode spread across different maps. It has great controller support and is the most popular action-based mobile game.
To make the game more accessible the game installation requires less storage space, and you can manually select the maps and other downloadable components you need.
1. Among Us
- Developed By – Innersloth LLC
- Rating – 3.7 (Android)/ 4.1 (iPhone)
- Play Among Us on Android
- Play Among Us on iOS
Among Us is one of the best mobile games of 2023. You can play with a group of 4 to 15 people.
Chances are you have played it already. In case you haven’t you should, Now.
The coolest thing is, it supports cross-play. That means you can play Among Us with friends from other devices and consoles too.
If you think something else should have made it to this list, let us know in the comments below!