Top 20 best city builder games for Android phones and tablets

Top 20 best city builder games for Android phones and tablets
Updated by Jupiter Hadley on August 29th, 2024 – added game trailers, fixed games.

As a seasoned city-planner and town-builder enthusiast, I’ve seen my fair share of urban jungles and suburban sprawls. But let me tell you, these sim games have a special place in my heart, much like an old pair of comfortable shoes or a trusty hammer.

If you’re seeking top-notch city construction games for Android devices, we’ve got you covered! Here, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list featuring the finest 20 options available. Dive in and discover the perfect games to construct the ideal metropolis of your dreams.

Mobile gaming has seen a consistent presence of building games since the shift towards social interaction – the significant period when numerous titles initially exclusive to Facebook transitioned onto smaller screens. At that time, it wasn’t immediately obvious because for every city or base construction game, there were many other games arriving, often requiring you to wait between assigning tasks and their completion.

Best strategy games for Android | Best roguelikes for Android

After the fog lifted, it’s obvious that innovative games such as Farmville Trailblazers paved the path for today’s base-building genre with their time-bound tasks and advancement systems based on unlocking new content. While patience has always been essential in building games (and there are a few strategy games on this list), adding numbers and timers to the equation has significantly sped up the progression process.

What city builder games for Android did we cover?

There are many, many ways to build a city up – and many different games that take that concept and bring their own twist to it. If you’re looking to build up a village so that you can withstand attacks or create a great place for other people to live, there are city builders just for that!

Some have a more serious aspect to them as you can build up your military, while others might just be about the visual appeal your town has. No matter what, you’re in charge and need to get building.

Please don’t forget to check out our list of what we consider the top 21 city builder games for Android. If you find any games missing, feel free to let us know in the comments. We regularly update our lists to ensure they remain current.

1 Townsmen

Publisher:
HandyGames
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation, Strategy
Find out more about Townsmen

In Townsmen, you embark on a journey through the Middle Ages, starting with a humble village and aiming to construct a vast medieval empire. Since technology isn’t as advanced as it is today, you’ll face various tasks such as establishing an economy, managing production lines, and even dealing with calamities that could potentially ravage your realm. The past was filled with numerous trials!

Although we’ve previously found few games captivating, our perspective on Townsmen has evolved over time, thanks to numerous updates and the passage of years. Now, it offers a satisfying gaming experience.

It’s worth giving it a shot, especially if you like games that take a simpler approach.

2 The Simpsons: Tapped Out

Developer: EA Mobile
Publisher: EA Mobile
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Action
Find out more about The Simpsons: Tapped Out

In The Simpsons: Tapped Out, humor is infused into the city-building genre. To rebuild your town, you first need to gather your residents. Once all characters are accounted for and reunited with their families, you can then customize their appearances to fit the style of your newly built Springfield. Subsequently, you can proceed to develop, expand, and boost businesses within your town.

How about taking a look at our review for The Simpsons: Tapped Out? If you’re intrigued about how this classic Android city-building game fares, be sure to give it a go. We find the game incredibly enjoyable and have prepared a guide specifically for The Simpsons: Tapped Out to assist you in your gaming journey.

3 Clash of Clans

Developer: Supercell
Publisher: Supercell
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Strategy, Tower defence
Find out more about Clash of Clans

From the get-go in Clash of Clans, it’s like stepping into a fantasy world where I’m tasked with constructing my very own defensive stronghold from the ground up. With each building upgrade, added trap, and growing army, I’m not just creating a town, but a resilient fortress that can withstand the onslaught of attacks by fellow players aiming to loot my hard-earned resources.

As an enthusiastic player myself, when you’re ready to jump into the action, don’t forget to browse through our treasure trove of Clash of Clans strategies and tutorials. For a deeper understanding of the game dynamics, I highly recommend checking out our in-depth Clash of Clans review.

4 Snow Town – Ice Village World

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Snow Town – Ice Village World

If constructing a city in the chilly tundra appeals to you, then Snow Town might be just what you’re looking for! You have the freedom to customize numerous aspects of your very own town, starting from the ground up. Unlike its predecessor, this city-building experience is more contemporary, with an emphasis on designing roads linking structures, parks to boost citizen satisfaction, and careful planning as your settlement expands.

If you adore immaculate snowy vistas and adding renowned landmarks to your collection, this compact city builder for Android is perfect for you. It’s a free-to-play game that allows you to construct in snow-capped mountains and offers a heartwarming gaming experience. Give it a spin!

5 Rise of Kingdoms: Lost Crusade

Publisher: Lilith Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Strategy
Find out more about Rise of Kingdoms: Lost Crusade

In the game Rise of Kingdoms, you’re not just building a city like in usual city-building games. Instead, it takes things to an entirely new dimension with numerous factors to manage, adversaries to confront, and exceptional commanders to acquire. As a result, each situation demands its own unique strategy.

This title is exceptionally strategic, perfect for city builders on Android, even in 2023! The community remains vibrant, and the game is structured around seasons, providing continuous growth and advancement opportunities. It’s highly recommended that you give it a try. By the way, don’t forget to explore the latest RoK codes as well!

6 Tropical Resort Story

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Tropical Resort Story

In simple terms, Tropical Resort Story is an engaging premium city-building game in which you strive to develop a bustling island paradise. The graphics are charming, featuring delightful pixel art, and there are numerous mini-games to keep you occupied as your homes construct. Your city’s reputation grows when you collect Stamps, drawing more residents – it’s an immersive game offering plenty of activities.

7 Paragon Pioneers

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Paragon Pioneers

In Paragon Pioneers, you engage in an immersive city-building experience that extends beyond mere population control. You also command an army capable of seizing additional territories, thereby expanding your urban center further. The game offers a rich tapestry of activities to manage and explore; trading, combat, shaping your island, and maintaining contentment among your inhabitants are all integral parts. Notable distinctions from similar games lie in the trading mechanics, while the necessity to discover new lands for expansion adds layers of strategic planning and depth to the gameplay.

8 DomiNations

Publisher: Big Huge Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Strategy
Find out more about DomiNations

In DomiNations, you engage in city-building, but it’s not just about construction – you also need to consider defensive strategies since you’ll be battling against rival nations. Once you pick a renowned civilization from history, your task begins by establishing your town while keeping war tactics in mind and striving to survive. The game requires a good deal of strategic thinking, and unexpected events can disrupt your plans!

This game leans heavily towards strategy rather than being purely a city-building game, but it’s certainly worth noting. It plays exceptionally well and its visuals are truly impressive.

9 City Island

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about City Island

In this game called City Island, you’re tasked with constructing your very own island from scratch, transforming it into a thriving metropolis using any remaining funds and gold. Start by erecting modest homes and gradually nurturing them into an impressive city. City Islands come equipped with various obstacles such as pirates and quests that will add excitement to your gaming experience!

Among the various installments in the City Island series, we’ve chosen to feature City Island 5 on this particular list. The reason being that it boasts more modern graphics and features, making it an appealing choice for gamers. If you’re captivated by the concept of constructing your own city island, then give all the games in the City Island series a try – there are quite a few of them!

10 Pocket City

Publisher: Game Insight
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Pocket City

At its heart, this game is all about city-building, offering no other features but that. You’ll embark on an exciting journey starting with nothing, gradually constructing your city one building at a time, one block at a a time. Your primary concern will always be maintaining the wellbeing and happiness of your citizens, as nobody desires to reside in a metropolis where commuting takes 4 hours. Managing traffic is one of the key aspects you’ll need to handle. To add an extra layer of challenge, the developer has incorporated natural disasters such as hurricanes and even volcanic eruptions, requiring you to act promptly to minimize their impact on your city!

Another thing that we have to praise is the lack of microtransactions. Pocket City is free to try and then requires a small one-time payment, and that’s it. The developer is still patching it, even after releasing Pocket City 2, so hats off to them.

Download Pocket City

11 Forge of Empires

Publisher: InnoGames
Available on: iOS + Android + Facebook and social
Genre: Strategy
Find out more about Forge of Empires

In Forge of Empires, you construct a city that progresses from ancient eras to contemporary times, constantly adapting and expanding your own empire! The true test lies in the adaptation process within Forge of Empires; you’ll have to use strategic thinking to survive various time periods and aim to sustain your empire until it reaches modernity and uncovers advanced technologies.

As a gamer, I’m excited to share that this game offers pillaging and foes to conquer! Not only that, but the visuals in this game are top-notch. It’s a strategic gem that’s definitely worth diving into, although be prepared to invest some serious time. You see, Forge of Empires moves at a leisurely pace, so progress might not happen overnight. But if you’re up for the challenge, it’s a rewarding experience!

12 SimCity Buildit

Publisher: EA Mobile
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Casual, Simulation, Strategy
Find out more about SimCity Buildit

In SimCity BuildIt, you assume the role of an ambitious real estate mogul, tasked with constructing a bustling city free from excessive limitations or obstacles. This is your chance to realize your dream! Your choices will significantly impact the city’s growth, and strategic planning is crucial if you aim for success. The game also features trading elements and an engaging narrative!

If you want to learn more about it, you can either read our SimCity Buildit review, or jump straight to the more hands-on tips in the SimCity Buildit strategy guide. Both choices should give you a clear idea of what to expect from it.

13 Megapolis

Developer: Social Quantum
Publisher: Social Quantum
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Casual, Strategy, Time management
Find out more about Megapolis

In Megapolis, strategy is essential when constructing your virtual city, since it requires adherence to market principles. This implies that every decision you make and creation you produce should be carefully planned, or else your infrastructure may become unstable. Additionally, Megapolis hosts competitions where players can exhibit their worlds, as well as the opportunity to strengthen a military component!

This city-building game is quite strong and worth checking out. If you’re intrigued and want to know more, I recommend reading our Megapolis review for a comprehensive understanding of its features.

14 Terra Nil

Publisher: Devolver Digital
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Genre: Strategy
Find out more about Terra Nil

On Netflix, you can experience Terra Nil – a game that invites you on a journey to transform a desolate wasteland into a flourishing town. The main emphasis lies in cleaning up pollution and revitalizing the soil, restoring this piece of earth to its former glory. As you work to improve the world, you’ll notice an increase in native wildlife and vegetation, making for a fulfilling city-building experience that doesn’t aim for overpopulation but rather focuses on enhancing the environment before venturing to another patch of land.

15 Frozen City

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Frozen City

In the Frozen City game, you get to construct a city amidst a frigid environment of snow and ice. Post an apocalypse that ravaged most parts of the world, your mission is to establish a city that shelters survivors. You’ll need to strategically use your scarce resources to maintain the lives of your people, hunt for additional resources, and make tough decisions about whether to admit more inhabitants into your town. This game offers a higher level of challenge compared to others on the list.

16 Designer City

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Designer City

Designer City is a city-building game with an emphasis on aesthetics and creativity over conflict and strategy. Instead of constructing war-torn structures, your goal is to build alluring homes and impressive skyscrapers that attract potential residents who are willing to buy them. However, it’s not just the buildings that require attention; you must also create appealing neighborhoods to maintain resident satisfaction and make your town an attractive relocation destination!

Besides recalling that there are several versions of “Designer Cities” available for play, including “Designer City: Empire Edition” and its sequel, let’s emphasize that the original version is particularly noteworthy due to its enduring appeal. We’ll focus on this classic game for our discussion.

17 The Battle of Polytopia

Developer: Midjiwan
Publisher: Game Insight
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Genre: Strategy
Find out more about The Battle of Polytopia

In simple terms, “The Battle of Polytopia” is a game that revolves around strategic turns. As the leader of a tribe, your goal is to establish and expand your civilization by managing and developing a map, uncovering tiles which can be utilized for personal advantage. Your mission is to outnumber other tribes in the territory, utilizing nearby resources to unlock new technologies, and employing them to defend against adversaries.

For any queries about The Battle of Polytopia, you might find the answers in our extensive collection of guides. Should you have a particular question or need help with something specific, chances are, you’ll find what you’re looking for there. Be sure to take a peek!

18 Village City Island Simulation

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Village City Island Simulation

In essence, Village City Island Simulator is a streamlined city-building game that’s been beautifully refined for enjoyable gameplay. As the mayor of this virtual town, you’ll strive to provide your citizens with fulfilling jobs and comfortable lives while an advisor guides you on understanding their needs and addressing them effectively. The game also offers quests to complete and adventures to discover!

In this game, you’ll find numerous items and structures to unveil, eventually growing into a sizeable and thriving community. It’s a straightforward city-building simulation game that delivers on its promise of offering an enjoyable experience while executing every aspect correctly.

19 Tropic Paradise Sim

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Tropic Paradise Sim

If you dream of constructing your city in a picturesque setting, Tropic Paradise Sim could be the solution! It’s a straightforward town-planning and construction simulator. Instead of just any urban area, you’ll be designing stunning tropical resorts on multiple islands. These idyllic destinations serve as getaways for people from their own villages and towns during vacations. As you build, remember to prioritize services to ensure a pleasant experience for your visitors.

Tropic Paradise Sim offers a fantastic experience as an urban planner simulation game, boasting stunning visuals. If you’re seeking a unique simulator set in an engaging environment, this one’s worth giving a shot!

As apparently, you love this genre, you are probably a fan of management games for Android as well!

20 Townscaper

Available on: iOS + Android + Steam + Switch
Genre: Casual, Simulation
Find out more about Townscaper

Townscaper is a leisurely, visually-oriented city construction game where you aren’t burdened by specific objectives. Instead, you’re free to construct a stunning virtual realm filled with intricate towns and an array of procedurally generated structures. You can effortlessly craft expansive landscapes, erect castles, and oversee a vibrant, colorful universe in this game. It’s perfect for individuals seeking a relaxing experience to design exquisite towns that cater to their creative whims.

2024-08-29 17:19