If you are a fan of Eastern culture, then our list of the
best Japanese games for Android
will tickle the right nerves!
As someone who’s been around the block when it comes to mobile gaming, let me tell you, these Japanese games for Android are nothing short of extraordinary! They’ve got strategy, they’ve got card battles, they’ve even got animated films brought to life.
In a nod to Monty Python’s Life of Brian, let me rephrase: What significant contributions have the Japanese made to our beloved world of video games? A far-from-comprehensive list might encompass Nintendo, Sega, Sony, Square Enix, Taito, and Konami. Among their many creations are Mario, Zelda, Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, Sonic, Metal Gear Solid, and Space Invaders – just a taste of the Japanese gaming universe.
- Top 25 RPGs on Android | Best Android aRPG games
As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but acknowledge the immense impact Japan has had on the video game industry. From SNES to PlayStation and Mega-Drive, their influence is evident. Japanese gaming culture has deeply intertwined with ours, shaping the very essence of this medium.
1 Super Mario Run
Publisher:
Nintendo
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Super Mario Run
After some time, Mario finally made an appearance on Android, and we were more than happy to be patient for it. Nintendo seems to have mastered the art of mobile gaming right from their debut, delivering an exceptional auto-running platformer game.
Regardless of your origin, Mario has always been one of the iconic Japanese creations that made its mark on the market through Nintendo’s initial release many years ago. Today, we have numerous Japanese games designed for Android devices like Super Mario Run, which is highly popular. If you want to delve deeper into it, be sure to check out our review on Super Mario Run!
2 Downwell
Developer: Moppin
Publisher: Devolver Digital
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Find out more about Downwell
Downwell seamlessly blends aspects from traditional Japanese shooting games (shmups) and platformers, while also integrating a robust roguelike gameplay system.
Instead of encountering titles like this on classic arcade machines in the past, you now have the opportunity to enjoy it from your own location, straight on your personal mobile device. Despite being a premium game, the cost is minimal considering the exceptional gaming experience it offers. As we’ve previously mentioned in our Downwell review, it’s an outstanding roguelike that deserves nothing but praise.
3 Final Fantasy IX
Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Sony PSP + Android
Find out more about Final Fantasy IX
When it comes to choosing the top Final Fantasy game, it often boils down to VI or VII. However, if we’re considering mobile versions, then IX stands out as the superior choice. Not only is it considered by many as the last classic entry in the series that beautifully maintains its original charm, but the mobile adaptation of this game has been exceptionally well done.
Initially, many players were disappointed when they discovered that FFIX wasn’t functioning as expected upon release. This is why you might notice some less-than-favorable reviews online, but don’t be deterred. Since then, the issues have been addressed and improvements made, resulting in a top-notch game within the Japanese Android games category. Our Final Fantasy IX review comprehensively covers all aspects of it, so feel free to check it out.
4 Dragon Quest VIII
Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + Nintendo 3DS
Find out more about Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King
Similar to Final Fantasy XI, Dragon Quest VIII refines an outstanding JRPG experience for mobile gaming. For quite some time now, it’s been a highly favored selection due to several factors, one of which is that this exceptional game maintains all the essential features necessary to make it a classic choice.
As a gamer, I can tell you that venturing across sprawling landscapes, delving into hidden nooks, and embracing the unique role-playing aspects rarely found in modern games is an unparalleled experience. If you’re curious about why this game stands out, take a peek at our Dragon Quest VIII review!
5 Space Invaders Infinity Gene
Publisher: Taito
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Space Invaders Infinity Gene
Space Invaders Infinity Gene isn’t just a casual adaptation of a well-known predecessor; instead, it’s a complete overhaul designed specifically for mobile devices. It continues to rank among the top Japanese shooter games available on mobile platforms.
If you believe you’re ready to immerse yourself, take a look at our review on Space Invaders Infinity Gene – a timeless gem worth exploring for any gaming enthusiast.
6 Jujutsu Kaisen Phantom Parade
Publisher: Bilibili
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Jujutsu Kaisen Phantom Parade
Delighted anime enthusiasts, it’s time to celebrate! The anticipated Jujutsu Kaisen game is now accessible on our mobile devices! This engaging turn-based gacha game mirrors the original anime narrative without giving away any spoilers. As you advance in the story, you’ll encounter beautifully crafted animated sequences that closely resemble the source material.
As a gamer, I find myself engrossed in a turn-based battle system where each foe has distinct vulnerabilities. My strategy is to capitalize on these weaknesses and deal maximum damage to ensure victory. It’s a typical gacha game, but the engaging narrative gives it an edge that sets it apart.
7 Epic Seven
Developer: Smilegate
Publisher: Smilegate
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Epic Seven
Epic Seven is a role-playing game (RPG) that retains its dedicated player base by offering daily rewards and allowing you to manage and unlock numerous characters. These characters guide you through an immersive world, filled with engaging cinematic scenes and unique abilities. The game’s combat system features turn-based battles and multiple fight encounters, reminiscent of Fate/Grand Order and Granblue Fantasy, but presented on a side-scrolling map.
8 Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
Publisher: Konami
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Castlevania: Symphony of the Night
As a devoted fan, I can’t contain my excitement to share that the game that truly embodies the essence of ‘Metroidvania’, alongside Super Metroid, is now available on iOS, graciously brought to us by Konami. This action-platformer stands among the best, most ambitious, and simply packed with substance in the genre.
If you’re not familiar with Castlevania, it might seem like you’ve missed out on something extraordinary! This Japanese mobile game boasts an impressive array of features that rival even the latest releases. It offers pixel graphics, thrilling platformer action, a captivating storyline, and much more. In essence, it’s a must-play for any gaming enthusiast.
9 Tsuki’s Odyssey
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Tsuki’s Odyssey
Tsuki’s Odyssey is a calming fantasy adventure for Android users, offering a refreshing change from action games. Its visually stunning graphics are delightful, providing a reason to smile even for those who trace their lineage back to the Shogun. The artwork is both charming and clear, allowing you to customize your interior with various styles, ranging from traditional stone furniture to the most advanced and futuristic designs, or even experimenting with different combinations. Additionally, you can fish and interact with adorable characters. If serenity and calmness appeal to you, this game is definitely worth considering.
10 Aka to Blue
Available on: iOS
Find out more about Aka to Blue
As a dedicated fan, I can confidently say that diving into Aka to Blue feels like holding a piece of Cave in my hands, right on my phone. This game, crafted by a team led by a seasoned Cave veteran, is the closest experience you’ll find to an authentic cave-style shoot ’em up on your mobile device.
In Japanese Android games, the hardcore shooting style isn’t common, but Aka to Blue offers this experience uniquely, with precise controls and immersive interactions. Check out our review of Aka to Blue – by the way, did you know that you’ll be continuously flooded with coins that become quite enjoyable to accumulate? It’s worth giving it a shot!
11 Streets of Rage 4
Developer: Playdigious
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Streets of Rage 4
Hey there, fellow gaming enthusiast! If you’re a Sega fan and had a soft spot for their ’90s fighting games, especially Streets of Rage, get ready to feel all warm and fuzzy. Streets of Rage 4 is the long-awaited heir to the cherished series, taking you back to those dangerous streets where you’ll be battling the minions and bosses of that evil syndicate. Trying to negotiate with them won’t get you anywhere; they understand only one language – force! You’ll use fists, knees, pipes, guitars, and more to convince them to abandon their criminal ways. Each character in Streets of Rage 4 brings a unique fighting style to the table – some prefer boxing, while others might opt for kung fu, taekwondo, or kickboxing. It’s all about choosing the one that fits your playstyle best. For instance, I found myself conquering the game with Adam, but couldn’t manage with other characters I tried out.
12 Chrono Trigger
Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Nintendo DS + Android
Find out more about Chrono Trigger
Unlike other Japanese Android games we’ve mentioned, Chrono Trigger doesn’t offer a flawless adaptation. Yet, it retains one of the best role-playing games ever made, boasting an intriguing time-twisting narrative and combat that feels almost real-time.
If you haven’t read the review on Chrono Trigger yet, it might be worth your time. We’ve covered every aspect of the game, even explaining why we think it falls short as a perfect port. Despite not being as groundbreaking as it was in ’95, over a decade later, Chrono Trigger remains an excellent choice – just optimized for various devices now.
13 Football Manager 2024 Mobile
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Football Manager 2024 Mobile
Football Manager 2024 Mobile, though primarily developed in the UK, is distributed globally by the renowned Japanese video game company, Sega. Including it on any football simulation list is always appreciated.
On mobile devices, you might not have found FM24 as thrilling as on PC or consoles. But if you give it a try, you’d be pleasantly surprised. This game offers console-standard graphics, engaging gameplay, and intuitive controls, all wrapped up in a managing simulation. You’ll find yourself devising intricate strategies, adjusting them during the game, and handling transfers, player management, and a host of other tasks.
Download Football Manager 2024 Mobile
14 Shin Megami Tensei Liberation
Publisher: Sega
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Shin Megami Tensei Liberation Dx2
A finely judged mobile spin-off from the beloved Shin Megami series. You get the same demon-collection impetus and anime-inflected presentation as the core series but achieved with a striking sense of immediacy.
In our review of Shin Megami Tensei Liberation Dx2, you’ll find out why we adored every aspect of the game – from its captivating anime graphics, immersive music and sound design, all the way down to the engaging turn-based card battles that take place during each round. Give it a read!
Short answer? Play it! It’s worth it, especially if you love JRPGs.
15 Final Fantasy VIII
Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Sony PSP + Android
Find out more about Final Fantasy VIII
It’s only fitting that we include several Final Fantasy games in our list, isn’t it? The remastered version of Final Fantasy VIII breathes new life into this often underappreciated JRPG, offering a refined interpretation of one of the more emotionally charged entries in the series.
The graphics and controls in FFVIII are surprisingly good, which is why we featured it. Many people who grew up with the game will tell you, it never gets old! It has a tremendous amount of replay value, so if you haven’t given it a try yet, now’s the perfect time!
16 SaGa Scarlet Grace
Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + PlayStation Vita
Find out more about SaGa Scarlet Grace
Developed jointly by Square Enix and Studio Reel, this twelfth installment of the expansive SaGa series makes its way to iOS following its initial release on PS Vita in 2016. This game is an immersive Japanese Role-Playing Game (JRPG) featuring a streamlined combat system and an unconventional text-based exploration mode.
SaGa Scarlet Grace offers an unusually distinctive visual style, yet its gameplay aligns seamlessly with typical JRPGs developed by this studio. Despite being less popular, it manages to secure a place on our top picks of Japanese Android games.
17 Sonic CD
Publisher: Sega
Available on: iOS + PlayStation Phone (Xperia Play) + Android + Windows Phone + Steam + Ouya
Find out more about Sonic CD
Skip over Sonic 4. Instead, opt for this version of what is arguably the best Sonic game (although perhaps less frequently played). It delivers smooth platformer action and retains the intricate time-travel mechanism that set the original apart.
We can’t express enough how much we adore games with exceptional ports, controller compatibility, and brilliant Japanese retro titles like Sonic CD. This game checks all the boxes, guaranteeing its status as an unforgettable and timeless masterpiece that every gaming enthusiast should experience at least once in their life. If you’re intrigued to learn more about what sets it apart from other games, feel free to read our Sonic CD review. It may help you determine if this game is a perfect fit for your collection or not.
18 Fire Emblem: Heroes
Publisher: Nintendo
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Fire Emblem: Heroes
Given that Fire Emblem Heroes is a compact mobile version of one of Nintendo’s most complex strategy series, it surprisingly delivers an impressive gaming experience.
In Fire Emblem Heroes (often abbreviated as FEH), you’ll find a dynamic game that frequently introduces new elements. As its player base expands, this 2017 production remains as vibrant in 2023 as ever. Our Fire Emblem Heroes review highlights how it masterfully blends key components to create an outstanding free-to-play RPG experience. If you’re fond of the role-playing genre, give it a go! We’ve also compiled a FEH tier list to help guide your character selections if you’re indecisive.
19 Kartrider Rush+
Developer: Nexon
Publisher: Nexon
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Kartrider Rush+
It seems rather challenging for Nintendo to navigate this situation. The game KartRider Rush+, developed by the South Korean-Japanese publisher NEXON, appears to offer a more comprehensive and superior version of Mario Kart, as perceived by many. In our opinion, it undeniably takes the lead in this comparison.
This game offers an exhilarating, enjoyable, and challenging experience that will make you feel like revving up your mini-kart and leaving everyone else in the dust, much like Mario Kart Tour. Just as there are various collectibles in Mario Kart Tour – karts, pets, racers, and more – so too does KartRider Rush+ have a wide array of items for players to discover. The key difference is that you’re now playing KartRider Rush+ instead.
20 Raiden Legacy
Publisher: Dotemu
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Raiden Legacy
The Raiden Legacy collection gathers an enormous pile of outstanding 2D shoot-’em-ups, and among them, Raiden Fighters Jet stands out as a top-notch representative, often praised by gaming enthusiasts as one of the best in its category.
This top-tier shooter game, infused with classic arcade style, makes an excellent addition to the list, alongside some classic JRPGs. Delve into our Raiden Legacy review to discover why we strongly recommend purchasing it – a recommendation we truly stand by.
21 Street Fighter: Duel
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Street Fighter: Duel
As a dedicated gamer, I can honestly say there’s no 1vs1 Japanese fighting game as iconic as Street Fighter. This legendary game was first introduced by Capcom way back in 1987, and since then, numerous versions have graced our screens, each one impressive in its own right. Fast forward to the present day, and mobile games are reigning supreme. And guess what? Street Fighter has made its mark with Duel!
22 Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth
Developer: tri_Ace
Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Sony PSP + Android
Find out more about Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth
A port of one of Square Enix’s almost-forgotten RPG gems, Valkyrie Profile is an oddball delight. Mixing side-scrolling platforming with deep combo-driven combat and a massive dose of Norse mythology, it’s pretty unique.
Additionally, we’ve got our take on Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth! Wondering if you’ve given it a look? Its stunning visuals and compelling story set it apart among Japanese RPGs available on Android devices.
23 Ni No Kuni: Cross Worlds
Developer: Level-5
Publisher: Netmarble
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Ni No Kuni: Cross Worlds
The new installment in the series is primarily created by Studio Ghibli, a studio renowned for producing enchanting animated films like Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, My Neighbor Totoro, and numerous others. They’ve teamed up with NetMarble to create this gem, which is an open-world RPG. The creators have worked diligently to make it feel like you’re immersed in the world of their animated films, and they’ve succeeded to a certain extent.
The battles in this game are automated, which might deter some gamers. However, if you’d rather have full control over your character, that option is not offered for everyone since some players prefer manual play. If you feel adventurous and want to try it out, don’t hesitate to utilize a few of our Ni No Kuni Cross Worlds promo codes. They will provide you with a great starting advantage.
24 Disgaea 1 Complete
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Disgaea 1 Complete
Without a doubt, one of the greatest strategy RPGs ever made, we originally awarded the first Disgaea game a perfect 10/10 Platinum accolade during its initial handheld gaming era. Now, this comprehensive remaster is available on both iOS and Android devices, and it’s just as delightful as ever.
Yes, yes, it’s a little bit pricey – but is it really worth it?
The truth is… yes and no. If you would do anything to play and unfold the story in Disgaea and Laharl, Etna and Flonne in their adventure, then go for it. Otherwise, there are other titles that play just as well and are completely free to play. It’s all up to you!
25 Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel
Yet another charming game title by Konami, Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel, stands out as an iconic card game strategy that boasts over millions of downloads.
Players have the opportunity to select from an impressive collection of over 10,000 cards (quite a substantial number, if I might say so) and construct their very own formidable deck that can challenge any opponent or obstacle. Essentially, you’re crafting your ideal dream deck. This game offers a solo mode for those who prefer to play alone, as well as a Player vs Player (PvP) mode where competitors can face off against each other and deepen their understanding of the YGO universe. We believe this game is an excellent addition to our roundup of Japanese games available on Android!
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2024-11-12 17:50