Top 13 best local multiplayer games for iPhone and iPad on one device

Top 13 best local multiplayer games for iPhone and iPad on one device
If there’s one downside to the explosion of mobile gaming, it’s the insularity of the experience.
Often, it’s easier to have a bunch of pass-and-play games on your phone or tablet, passing them around the table and using them to keep everyone engaged and entertained.

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I can confidently say that local multiplayer games have always held a special place in my heart. The joy and excitement of competing against friends and family in real-time is something that cannot be replicated by playing against AI or online opponents. And today, I’d like to share with you 13 local multiplayer games for iOS that are guaranteed to bring hours of fun and entertainment into your life.

A mobile gaming experience can be just as social as a console game session on a large television screen. Below are ten local multiplayer games for iPhones that can demonstrate this interaction on a single device.

1 Out of the Loop

Available on:
iOS + Android
Genre: Multiplayer, Party/mini-games
Find out more about Out of the Loop

In “Out of the Loop,” a social game for multiple players, one person at a time is shown a hidden word on the screen. All players view the same word, except for one individual, who serves as the deceiver or “impostor.” The impostor’s goal is to blend in and mislead others by feigning knowledge of the word. To determine who knows the word and who does not, all players engage in a question-and-answer session.

When the team believes they have identified the phony member, they can cast a vote to expel them. If their guess is correct, the team triumphs. However, if they are mistaken, the imposter emerges victorious. It’s an entertaining and competitive experience, making it one of the top local multiplayer games on iOS devices!

2 Battle Golf

Publisher: Colin Lane
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Sports
Find out more about Battle Golf

In Battle Golf, two players engage in a humorous local multiplayer sporting event. Each golfer is positioned on opposite sides with a lake serving as the barrier. The objective is to sink one’s ball into whatever floating hole is displayed on the screen before your opponent does. The lake comes alive with the sudden appearance of animals and small islands, adding an element of excitement and challenge. Quick reflexes and strategic planning are essential to earn points by successfully getting your golf ball into the hole.

Two players can engage in real-time competition on a single screen, striving to surpass one another with speed. Nonetheless, this game is turn-based, requiring you to hand over the device to your opponent for their chance to play. No sneaky moves allowed! It’s understandable how hard it could be to resist dropping your friend’s ball into oblivion. But take our word for it – read Battle Golf’s reviews if you have doubts!

3 Tsuro

Available on: iOS
Genre: Card/board game
Find out more about Tsuro

In simpler terms, Tsuro is an digital adaptation of a traditional board game. Each player chooses among three options to lay down a tile on the gameboard. The character piece then moves along the path formed by these tiles, aiming to reach a black square. The challenge lies in avoiding collisions with other players’ pieces and staying within the board boundaries. Tsuro’s minimalistic design makes it an enjoyable experience for all age groups – that’s why it’s a cherished classic – and supports up to 8 players, either online or on a single device.

If you and your friends are interested in giving it a go, we strongly suggest you try it out! The larger iPad screen significantly enhances the experience, making it an exceptional local multiplayer game worth checking out. For a comprehensive review of Tsuro, please read on.

4 Ludo King

Available on: iOS
Genre: Card/board game
Find out more about Ludo King

Regardless of whether you’re gathered in the same physical space or not, Ludo King allows you to enjoy a game of Ludo at any time and from any location.

Ludo King transforms the traditional board game into a convenient mobile version. Just as with the original game, you and your companions can alternately make moves on a solitary gadget. Essentially, Ludo King functions as an electronic rendition of the board.

Additionally, the game enables players to participate in online sessions. Players have the option of establishing their own rooms for friends to join, or they can enter existing rooms and interact with unfamiliar players.

Try Ludo King with your friends today.

5 2 3 4 Player Games

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Multiplayer, Party/mini-games, Simulation
Find out more about 2 3 4 Player Games

With this app, you’ll find an abundance of mini-games suitable for 2, 3, or 4 players. The experience changes based on the number of people joining in, ensuring a diverse and engaging gameplay for all. Boasting over twenty mini-games and a 4-player battle cup, there’s something exciting for every preference – from action-packed shooters to relaxing fishing games!

As a seasoned gamer and someone who has hosted numerous family gatherings, I can’t recommend this collection enough. It’s perfect for those cozy nights in with loved ones or even for a lively gaming session with friends. What makes it truly special is the ability to enjoy the games on the same device, which adds an exciting layer of interaction and friendly competition that keeps us engaged and entertained for hours. Trust me, it’s a game night experience like no other!

6 MONOPOLY

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Card/board game, Multiplayer
Find out more about MONOPOLY

I used to have Monopoly in my collection of board games, but somehow the pieces got misplaced or the money went missing. I even considered not getting it again due to the hassle of setting it up. But then I discovered the mobile version! It’s more than just a digital version; it’s compact and can be played with family or friends in the same room through pass-and-play. Plus, there are various rule sets, game boards, and charming characters to choose from, making this classic game feel fresh and exciting once again.

As a gamer, I get it if you’re hesitant about diving into a game of Monopoly due to the lengthy rounds. But fear not! The mobile version is a game-changer. Instead of hours spent around a physical board, this digital adaptation moves at a faster pace. Plus, you can customize your experience by adding house rules to ramp up the competition and shorten the rounds even further. Monopoly on mobile is an excellent local multiplayer option for iPhone users. And let’s not forget the added bonus of cross-platform online multiplayer – perfect for those under quarantine!

7 King of Opera

Developer: Tuokio
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade, Multiplayer, Party/mini-games
Find out more about King of Opera

Incorporating music and combat, Opera King is perfect for individuals seeking competition without resorting to actual violence. Up to four players can participate, managing opera singers aiming to outshine opponents. By maintaining rhythm and utilizing the stage’s spotlight power, they attempt to push rivals offstage. This game offers a distinct theme and enjoyable experience.

The game could potentially drive a wedge between you and your friends, revealing the depth of your relationships through its challenging, competitive dynamics. It may be enjoyable, but the underlying competition makes it an intriguing spectacle to observe.

8 2 Player Games : the Challenge

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade, Multiplayer
Find out more about 2 Player Games : the Challenge

Two-Player Games is an assortment of straightforward and iconic games accessible on your mobile device, featuring ping pong, spinner war, air hockey, snake, pool, penalty shootouts, and sumo wrestling, among others. The visuals are uncluttered, facilitating clear comprehension and prompt gameplay initiation.

If you often enjoy playing small games with friends or family, having this one on your phone is a great choice!

9 Fruit Ninja

Publisher: Halfbrick Studios
Available on: iOS + Android + Mobile + PS Vita + Windows Phone
Genre: Action, Casual
Find out more about Fruit Ninja

Have you heard that Fruit Ninja supports two-player mode on a single screen? In this mode, you and another player face off, swiftly swiping fruits in a confined area before a set time elapses. The goal is to outscore your opponent. It’s quite likely that someone you know has Fruit Ninja installed (I do too!). Despite its simplicity, it can be incredibly enjoyable if you’re a fan or playing against an experienced Fruit Ninja player.

Although multiplayer mode makes things a bit more challenging, the game remains enjoyable with an authentic local multiplayer feeling, earning it a spot among our top picks for local multiplayer games on iOS played on the same device. Check out our Fruit Ninja review to discover why we awarded it a silver rating!

10 Heads Up!

Publisher: Warner Bros. Games
Available on: iOS
Genre: Puzzle, Word game
Find out more about Heads Up!

As someone who has played Heads Up! numerous times with my friends and family, I can wholeheartedly say that this is a game that adds a unique twist to the classic guessing word concept. Instead of being out of the loop and trying to figure out which player has the hidden word, in Heads Up!, it’s your turn to have the word and let everyone else help you out.

Attention! We’ve played plenty of local multiplayer games on iOS, and “Heads Up!” is hands down one of the most enjoyable ones. If you and your friends relish a good challenge, then we highly recommend giving it a try.

11 Badland

Developer: Frogmind Games
Publisher: Frogmind Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Adventure
Find out more about Badland

The captivating and scenic game of BADLAND frequently garners accolades and recognition in the App Store. Occasionally, you can obtain the initial segment of this game at a reduced price or even for free.

Two, three, or four people can attempt playing Badland together. Every participant will be assigned a distinct area of the screen to manage creatures of specific colors. The core game mechanics remain unchanged in this cooperative mode.

Engaging in the game as a team brings about greater challenges and thrills; it’s strongly suggested that you join forces with friends. Prepare yourself with an ample supply of patience and resilience beforehand.

12 Mini Militia – Doodle Army 2

Available on: iOS
Genre: Multiplayer
Find out more about Mini Militia – Doodle Army 2

You can’t talk about local multiplayer games and not mention Mini Militia.

If you haven’t experienced it yet, Mini Militia is a dynamic combat game in 2D format. Simultaneously, up to six players are able to engage in intense battles against each other. With over twenty intricately designed maps to discover and an extensive collection of potent weaponry at your disposal, prepare yourself for the fight by arming yourself to the teeth.

And if you’re offline, you can enter into survival mode to pass some time.

Join the fun today! Download Mini Militia for your iPhone and iPad.

13 Ice Rage

Available on: iOS + Android + Bada
Genre: Sports
Find out more about Ice Rage

In simple terms, Ice Rage is a fun and engaging hockey game you can enjoy with a friend. Globally, it has taken the top spot in sports game rankings in an impressive 70 countries. This arcade-style hockey game features two teams, each consisting of a goaltender and a forward. You can select from numerous unique characters for both roles, each with distinct appearances and attributes.

In simple terms, you have the option to enjoy Ice Rage on your own in single-player or engage in friendly competition with a friend through multiplayer mode. For those seeking a sports game to bond over, consider giving Ice Rage a spin!

Download Ice Rage

2024-07-25 16:49