Updated by Ivan Spasojevic on October 22, 2024 – new game added
As a child of the ’80s and ’90s, I can’t help but feel a sense of nostalgia when I play games like Dan the Man. The graphics may be 2D pixelated, but they transport me back to a time when fighting movies and games ruled supreme.
If you’re on the hunt for top-notch arcade games for Android devices, you’ve come to the right place! Here’s a handpicked collection of speedy, high-scoring games designed to entertain and challenge you. Enjoy!
Before the widespread availability of gaming devices at home or on personal bodies, arcades filled with straightforward games were quite popular. Although they still exist, there are now numerous Android-based “arcade games” available for home use. Unlike the original arcades, these games don’t typically require feeding coins to play them.
What are the arcade games for Android and how do they work?
As time has passed the definition of ‘arcade’ as a genre has changed a little bit, not least due to the games themselves moving out of the clunky, standing machines of yesteryear. However, a lot of the mechanics and ideas behind these titles are the same.
Titles should ideally have temporary, yet potentially extendable lifespans. Realistically, you should aim for high scores or strive towards significant achievements, even if the scenarios aren’t overly realistic. Nowadays, many games are categorized as arcade-style, but this classification can also apply to other genres. Sometimes, it’s just about the aesthetics.
Go ahead and tap the large button underneath to discover our top picks for Android arcade games. If you believe there’s something missing, feel free to share your thoughts in a comment. We periodically update our lists to ensure they accurately represent each genre and remain current.
1 Angry Birds 2
Publisher:
Rovio
Available on: iOS + Android + Windows Phone
Genre: Action, Arcade, Puzzle
Find out more about Angry Birds 2
I’ve had countless hours of fun with Angry Birds, whether it was in the arcades or on my smartphone. For those uninitiated, Angry Birds 2 is an exciting arcade game where you launch birds using a slingshot to knock down structures filled with pigs. Your goal is to gradually demolish these structures and ultimately vanquish the pigs.
The components used to build these structures can range greatly in terms of their strength, as different birds have distinct impacts. It’s on you to employ them strategically to bring down the pigs effectively!
We have a complete beginner’s guide for Angry Birds 2, as well as an Angry Birds 2 review to help give you a better idea of what to expect from this all-time classic.
2 Golden Axe Classics
Publisher: Sega
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Fighting, Retro
Find out more about Golden Axe Classics
Hey gaming buddies! If you’ve got a soft spot for old-school arcade action, I’ve got some nostalgia-inducing news for you. We’re bringing back an iconic trilogy – Golden Axe Classics! This collection is packed with all three games that will tug at your heartstrings and flood you with joyful memories. For those who haven’t played before, think of it as a side-scrolling brawler like Streets of Rage, but with some unique twists.
The graphics are in 16-bit format, which means you won’t encounter any unexpected issues. It’s just an old-school, beat-em-up game right on your mobile device.
3 Asphalt 9: Legends
Publisher: Gameloft
Available on: iOS + Android + Switch
Genre: Arcade, Multiplayer, Racing
Find out more about Asphalt 9: Legends
Arcade racing games have a spot on the list, and Asphalt 9: Legends has joined the ranks! The graphics in Asphalt 9 surpass those of traditional arcade machines, and it offers a wide variety of real cars from well-known manufacturers. You can race through stunning landscapes while enjoying the scenery as you compete against others to be the best.
We have an Asphalt 9: Legends review that gives players a clear idea what to expect from it. We even have a rather large collection of guides and tips to help you unlock specific cars, so make sure to check it out if you’d like to learn something new!
4 Crossy Road
Developer: Hipster Whale
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade, Platform
Find out more about Crossy Road
Crossy Road is akin to Frogger for modern times – I’ve seen it in arcades occasionally, but never quite mastered it enough to win those coveted tickets. Essentially, your goal is to escort an animal across the street, over rivers, and beyond, all while navigating numerous obstacles along the way. You can dodge left or right before proceeding forward, traversing through various landscapes indefinitely.
Have you taken a look at our Crossy Road review yet? If so, be sure not to pass up our assortment of tips and guides as well! We’ve got something catered to all types of players, so don’t forget to explore them.
5 Alto’s Adventure
Developer: Snowman
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Endless running
Find out more about Alto’s Adventure
Afternoons lately have been occupied by Alto’s Adventure, a delightful arcade game for Android devices. In this game, you’ll find yourself skiing down various slopes, performing tricks like flips, gathering coins, and navigating over boulders. Quests are presented along the way to accomplish during your runs, with leveling up as a reward once these tasks are completed.
This game has a straightforward yet refined design, with stunning visuals that are hard to resist. Our Alto’s Adventure review offers an account of our playthrough, but if you’d rather experience it firsthand, feel free to jump right in! You can’t make a mistake whether you choose to read the review or dive straight into the game.
6 Doodle Jump
Available on: iOS + Android + Blackberry + Mobile + Windows Mobile
Genre: Casual, Platform
Find out more about Doodle Jump
Doodle Jump, a game I recall from my youth, is one I’d like to discuss. The fundamental idea is quite straightforward: you control an alien who can leap upward. You make him jump by tapping the screen, aiming for greater heights. Your goal is to ascend as high as possible, landing on shifting platforms that alter your position and swiftly traversing platforms that will soon vanish.
As a devoted gamer, I can’t help but warn you: if you slip up in this Doodle Jump adventure, your character could tumble off the screen and bid farewell to the game. But let me assure you, it’s an easy-to-grasp yet exhilarating experience! Don’t forget to check out our review of Doodle Jump to uncover why this timeless arcade game remains a top pick among Android gamers!
7 Jetpack Joyride (previously Machine Gun Jetpack)
Developer: Halfbrick Studios
Publisher: Halfbrick Studios
Available on: iOS + Android + Facebook and social + PSP + PS Vita
Genre: Action, Arcade, Endless running
Find out more about Jetpack Joyride (previously Machine Gun Jetpack)
Jetpack Joyride is a game similar to the ones you might encounter at your local beachfront arcade! In this title, you’ll navigate through various stages while utilizing your jetpack or other modes of transportation, gathering coins and avoiding numerous perils. The game offers an easy-to-grasp yet exhilarating experience as it presents challenging missions that are incredibly satisfying to complete – assuming you manage to do so!
This arcade game has long been regarded as a classic due to its dynamic gameplay that offers something fresh every day. For a more comprehensive understanding, we’ve written a review on Jetpack Joyride, which you might find helpful in deciding whether or not to play it. So, if you’re hesitant, feel free to check out our review for your answer.
8 Pac-Man
Developer: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Available on: iOS + Android + Windows Phone
Genre: Arcade
Find out more about Pac-Man
Without a doubt, PAC-MAN ought to be featured in any list of arcade games for Android or any other platform. It’s the classic game that instantly springs to mind when I think of the genre. Although its popularity may have waned somewhat over time, many people continue to download it onto their smartphones!
In case you’re considering playing an updated version of an old game, remember Pac-Man! It boasts leaderboards, multiple modes, and enhanced graphics compared to the arcade version. Additionally, if you’d like to read our review on it, feel free to check it out!
9 Brawl Stars
Publisher: Supercell
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Action, Multiplayer, Shooter
Find out more about Brawl Stars
Let’s add a shooter character to the game! Brawl Stars is an entertaining, lively, and vividly colored Android arcade shooter in which you aim to annihilate opponents before they eliminate you. Various modes are available that pit you against others or have you team up with two more players against other teams. The rounds are fast-paced and enjoyable to join and exit, making it suitable for an arcade game.
In our post, we’ve compiled a ranking list for top Brawl Stars characters, detailing our thoughts on each one. If you’re unsure about giving it a try, start by reading our analysis first. Then, feel free to browse through our growing collection of helpful guides!
10 Clash Royale
Publisher: Supercell
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Strategy
Find out more about Clash Royale
Clash Royale is a widely recognized and exceptional arcade game, where you engage in real-time battles with other players. If you’re familiar with Clash of Clans, you might find it reminiscent because it features characters from that game. It offers both single player mode and 2×2 mode, allowing you to team up with another player to take on two opponents simultaneously.
To access multiple types of units, you’ll need to initially unlock them. This can be achieved by opening treasure chests, which become available post-battle. If you’re a fan of Clash of Clans seeking a fresh challenge, I recommend giving Clash Royale a try.
11 PinOut
Publisher: Mediocre
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade, Endless running
Find out more about PinOut
For our pinball addition to this list, I have chosen PinOut, a neon, endless version of pinball that gives you one ball and lets you see how far you can actually get into it. The graphics are lovely – far better than other pinball machine games I’ve played – and the twist on the machine running endlessly forward is really quite fun!
This exceptional pinball game seamlessly transitions arcade excitement right to your smartphone, allowing for portable gaming anytime, anywhere. And with our in-depth PinOut review, you can delve into the specifics of our enjoyable playtime with this captivating title.
12 Metal Slug 3
Publisher: SNK Playmore
Available on: iOS + Android + PS Vita + Steam
Genre: Action, Shooter
Find out more about Metal Slug 3
In simpler terms, this new version of Metal Slug 3 resembles its arcade form from the past and operates as a run-and-gun game. The port has been done nicely, with additional features including campaign, classic, and mission modes for a complete gaming experience. The mission mode offers a chance to hone your skills on tougher challenges.
This game pays homage to classic titles, and you can delve deeper into our comprehensive Metal Slug 3 review if you’re interested. However, due to its authentic style and essence that truly embody the genre, it undeniably deserves a spot among the top Android arcade games!
13 Stair Run
Developer: Voodoo
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade
Find out more about Stair Run
It’s quite likely that Stair Run could soon be featured in arcades, given its unique gameplay. In this game, players dodge obstacles while moving forward, collect stairs, and use them strategically to jump over hurdles or ascend higher platforms. However, the challenge lies in managing the number of stairs you carry, as running out can put a halt to your progress!
It feels like an io title, but since the pretty vague term arcade refers to, we’d gladly have it on this list! Stair Run is super fun and challenging at the same time. A complete delight running (literally and figuratively speaking).
14 Subway Surfers
Developer: SYBO Games
Publisher: SYBO Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Action
Find out more about Subway Surfers
Subway Surfers is a popular arcade game available on Android and iOS devices that has been around for quite a while, occasionally showing up in various physical arcades as well. Remarkably, it continues to be updated regularly, which is particularly noteworthy considering it’s an endless runner game where the objective is simply to keep moving forward, dodging obstacles, discovering new routes to jump over items, and striving for the highest score achievable. It’s truly amazing how they’ve managed to sustain the game for such a long period!
We’ve got a list of up-to-date Subway Surfers codes for you to check, make sure you do so. We also have a bunch of other guides to help you out when you start your Subway Surfers journey!
15 Pizzaiolo
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade
Find out more about Pizzaiolo
Title Translation: Pizza Maker! This game falls under the Arcade genre, reminding me fondly of enjoying pizza while playing in arcades. Here’s our final title on the list. It offers an enjoyable experience of crafting perfect pizzas, swiftly cooking them, and serving them up – however, it lacks the complexity to be considered a simulation. Perfect for casual play, with its simplicity making it suitable for the best Android arcade games. Yet, I don’t foresee it being featured in an actual arcade machine.
If you’re searching for a delightful and uncomplicated gaming experience that also serves as a stress-reliever, look no further than Pizzaiolo – a fantastic cooking game! For those who appreciate similar genres, we recommend exploring our carefully curated list of top-tier cooking games suitable for Android devices.
16 Slash & Girl
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade
Find out more about Slash & Girl
This anime-inspired game, a fresh take on Endless Runners, offers an enjoyable experience complete with fast-paced, intense battles and stunning visuals. You’re given the freedom to choose your preferred anime character, customize her outfits, and embark on an adventure within a neo-arcade setting where you’ll face numerous challenges. If you enjoy games similar to Subway Surfers or Temple Run but are seeking something unique (and undeniably more visually appealing), then Slash & Girl could be just what you’re looking for.
For anime fans, we would suggest checking out our list of the best anime games for mobile devices. There are a lot of interesting titles that you should try!
17 Peace, Death!
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade
Find out more about Peace, Death!
In this visually appealing game with pixelated art and a dark, ominous setting, your goal is to demonstrate your worthiness to Death. As a Reaper, you must overcome various trials during your probationary period – nothing too extraordinary, just typical chaos, catastrophe, doom, and the like. Despite the occasional morally dubious choices you’ll have to make, it’s an exciting game that’s impossible not to enjoy!
For those of you who own an iPhone, we also have the best arcade games for Apple devices!
18 Shooty Skies
Developer: Mighty Games
Publisher: Mighty Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade, Shooter
Find out more about Shooty Skies
Shooty Skies is a thrilling game filled with fast-action battles, intense bullet storms, and an abundance of pixelated weaponry. If you enjoy high-speed combat, chaotic bullet patterns, and endless fun, this Android game delivers more excitement than you can handle! It also offers numerous achievements for you to unlock, and its dynamic environment ensures that you’ll never get bored.
As a fellow gaming enthusiast, if you’re eager to learn more about this thrilling game, I’d highly recommend checking out our detailed Shooty Skies review. Trust me, it’s packed with fascinating insights you won’t want to miss!
19 Dan the Man
Publisher: Halfbrick Studios
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Fighting, Film/TV tie-in, Platform
Find out more about Dan the Man
Dan the Man harkens back to the ’90s, a time when fighting films and games were all the rage. The timeless appeal of muscular men engaging in combat remains strong, as evidenced by its staggering 100 million downloads on Google Play alone. It seems that the thrill of arcades, where you can pummel people and everything else indiscriminately, never goes out of style.
Initially, the graphics are 2D pixelated yet endearing, reminiscent of the era I’ve referred to. The gameplay is a blend of fighting/shooting and platforming, interspersed with occasional boss battles. It’s not that bosses are simple, it requires skill to defeat them, especially at higher levels. With the recent update, you can now team up with your friends for co-op play, making it even more enjoyable.
20 Hyperforma
Available on: iOS
Find out more about Hyperforma
Among the advanced-looking Android arcade games on this list, Hyperforma stands out not only for its puzzles, blocks, and activities but also for its engaging narrative. If you choose to explore it (and we highly recommend you do), you’ll be privy to the mysteries of a civilization that has long vanished.
Hyperforma isn’t just another run-of-the-mill arcade game where you blindly shoot left and right; instead, it offers so much more for those seeking a unique addition to their collection. If it piques your interest, we highly recommend giving it a try. For further details about the game, feel free to read our Hyperforma review!
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2024-10-22 14:19