Top 20 best indie mobile games

Updated on January 2nd, 2025 – re-checked the list, original article by Will Quick, updated by Ivan Spasojevic and Jupiter Hadley

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, I must say that the indie mobile games on this list have truly captured my attention and imagination! From the thrilling racing game Exoracer to the captivating visual novel Phantom of Opera, each game offers a unique and immersive experience that is hard to find in other genres.

Having grown up with the classic rivalry between cats and birds, I was particularly intrigued by Cat Bird – it’s a breath of fresh air to see these two creatures combined in such a creative way. And let’s not forget about Exoracer, which allows me to unleash my competitive spirit as I race against other players on various challenging levels!

But what truly sets these games apart is their ability to transport me to far-off worlds and immerse me in captivating stories. For instance, the level editor mode of Exoracer lets me build and share my own worlds, while the mini-games in Phantom of Opera add an extra layer of drama and excitement to the classic story.

All in all, this list of indie mobile games is a must-play for any gamer looking for unique, engaging experiences that push the boundaries of what’s possible on a mobile device. And let’s not forget the added bonus of being able to share these adventures with friends! So go ahead and download some of these games – you won’t regret it!

Oh, and remember: The only thing better than playing indie mobile games is bragging about how many levels you’ve beaten on Exoracer. Just a little gaming humor for you there. Enjoy!

As a seasoned game developer with years of experience under my belt, I wholeheartedly agree that creating a game is one of the most demanding and costly ventures a person can embark on, especially for independent creators like myself. However, I’ve found solace in the mobile gaming market, which offers an ideal platform for those working with limited resources to bring their ideas to life.

There are countless tools available to help assemble a game, and many of them come equipped with a mobile component to swiftly convert the game into an app. Whether it’s serving as a foundation or a testing ground, these indie mobile games can provide some of the most enjoyable gaming experiences I’ve encountered in my career.

In my own journey as an independent creator, I’ve discovered that mobile gaming offers both creative freedom and accessibility to a vast audience. I urge fellow developers to seize the opportunity presented by the mobile market and create their own indie masterpieces.

Hey there, fellow gamer! As someone who grew up playing games from the old-school days of Atari to the modern era of virtual reality, I can honestly say that indie games have become a breath of fresh air in this ever-evolving world of gaming. They’re like a box of chocolates – you never know what you’re going to get! Sometimes they’ll pop up out of nowhere and grab your attention with their quirky concepts, other times they’ll follow trends and popular formulas but put a creative spin on them that leaves you wanting more.

From the ultra-casual AFK games that you can play in between meetings or while waiting for the bus, to intense online titles that demand your full attention for hours on end, there truly is something for everyone in this diverse landscape of indie gaming. Even if you’re not much of a gamer, I firmly believe that giving one of these unique creations a try can be just as rewarding as any AAA title out there. So why not give it a shot and discover your new favorite game? You might just find yourself supporting an independent developer in the process – talk about a win-win situation!

1 Dadish 3

Available on:
iOS + Android
Find out more about Dadish 3

In Dadish 3, the latest installment of the series, you embark on a lively, vibrant platformer journey as a cool radish searching for his lost kids. This time, your kids have mysteriously disappeared during an odd field trip, and are in danger of becoming radish soup – unless you intervene! Your mission involves reconnecting with an old flame, locating the peculiar children, and ensuring you don’t meet an untimely end yourself. It’s a delightful, engaging game with a charming and humorous narrative to boot!

2 Subpar Pool

Developer: Grapefrukt
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Find out more about Subpar Pool

As a seasoned gamer with decades of experience under my belt, let me tell you that Subpar Pool is anything but subpar! This pool game, with its procedurally generated tables and puzzling obstacles, offers a unique twist on a classic game that I’ve always loved. The strategy required to navigate these challenging layouts is both engaging and rewarding.

The graphics in this game are inviting and captivating, transporting me into a fun world that I can’t get enough of. The simplicity of the concept belies the depth of the experience it offers. It’s not just about sinking the ball – it’s about outsmarting the game itself.

I’ve played many pool games in my time, but Subpar Pool stands out as one of the best I’ve ever played. If you’re looking for a fresh take on a classic game, give this one a try! You won’t be disappointed.

3 Soul Knight

Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Soul Knight

As a longtime fan of rogue-like games, I can confidently say that Soul Knight by Chilly Room has quickly become one of my favorites. Coming from someone who’s played countless indie games on their phone, Soul Knight stands out as a must-play title. The game offers an immersive experience with its diverse rooms and intricate dungeon designs, making you feel like you’re embarking on a thrilling adventure right in the palm of your hand.

What I appreciate most about Soul Knight is the sense of self-determination it gives players. You get to pick and choose the warrior you think can withstand the challenges ahead, making each playthrough unique. The game’s colorful pixel art, vast array of weapons, and magic elements keep things fresh and engaging. It’s a game that demands your attention and keeps you coming back for more, offering a perfect blend of challenge and entertainment.

In short, Soul Knight is a must-have for any rogue-like enthusiast looking for an immersive and addictive gaming experience on their phone. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys games that require strategy, skill, and a bit of luck!

4 Monument Valley

Developer: Ustwo games
Publisher: Ustwo games
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Monument Valley

In comparison to other gaming categories, puzzle games are among the most widely played and user-friendly on smartphones. As you encounter puzzles, you have the luxury of pondering at your own pace and attempting multiple solutions. The experience is even more enjoyable when it’s set within a vivid, captivating environment, such as Monument Valley by Us Two. This dreamlike journey immerses you in the character of a silent princess named Ida, who navigates through structures with intricate geometric twists. Your goal is to guide her safely from one location to another.

5 ScourgeBringer

Developer: Plug In Digital
Publisher: Plug In Digital
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about ScourgeBringer

In games, “scourge” is rarely linked to positive things, often requiring players to battle against it or endure it. However, PID Games chose combat in their game titled Scourge Bringer. As Kyrha, a young and fiery fighter, you embark on a journey through treacherous ruins seeking redemption. The game delivers an intense and immediate platform experience, emphasizing the importance of accurate movements rather than reckless swings. Prepare to face numerous adversaries, hazards, and colossal bosses eager for defeat.

6 OPUS: Rocket of Whispers

Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about OPUS: Rocket of Whispers

Remarkable tales can be conveyed without spoken language, instead resonating profoundly through various senses. That’s the essence of OPUS: Rocket of Whispers, crafted by Sigono Inc. In this poignant narrative, you embark on a harrowing voyage alongside two survivors who lived through a devastating plague that nearly emptied our world. As they traverse the remnants in search of essential resources to construct a rocket for departure from Earth, their desperate quest offers a glimmer of hope amidst despair. It may seem like an impossible dream, but it’s all they have left.

7 Cats & Soup

Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Cats & Soup

Indulging in comfort food can bring a sense of warmth and contentment, even when one isn’t actually hungry. Numerous enterprises thrive on providing these heartwarming dishes. Why not immerse yourself in a charming indie game that revolves around this concept? The HIDEA team has introduced an endearing twist to this idea with their game named Cats & Soup. In this game, you manage a group of cats who are passionate about making soup. It’s an idle-style game where you can assign each cat to a specific station, and once everything is ready, combine it all into the soup.

8 The Way Home

Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about The Way Home

The concept of stranded individuals on an island giving rise to tales of survival dates back to an unclear time, yet it persists even in video games. Typically, the character is left on a barren island with only their intelligence and determination to help them endure. In this latest venture by Concode Corp., Kevin and his feline companion Cheese find themselves stranded on a lively pixel island called The Way Home. Their mission? To explore, create essentials for survival, persist, and perhaps discover an escape route if possible. Should they chance upon other castaways during their journey, it’ll be all the better!

9 Dead Cells

Developer: Motion Twin
Publisher: Motion Twin
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Dead Cells

On this site, we’ve extensively discussed Dead Cells, and for good cause. Dead Cells is a metroidvania-style game with immense replay potential, offering numerous upgrades, enemies, and a unique world to explore each playthrough. It stands out with its award-winning status and sets the bar high among roguelikes!

10 Good Pizza, Great Pizza

Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Good Pizza, Great Pizza

As a gaming enthusiast, diving into “Good Pizza, Great Pizza” feels like stepping into a warm, pizza-crafting world brimming with engaging characters! Sometimes, customers aren’t too specific about their orders, leaving it to my intuition to decipher what they crave. I can use the hard-earned cash to upgrade my ingredients and tools, ultimately crafting some mouthwatering pizzas that keep customers coming back for more!

11 Sky: Children of the Light

Available on: iOS + Android + Nintendo Switch
Find out more about Sky: Children of the Light

One thing that ‘thatgamecompany Inc.’ excels at is crafting visually captivating odysseys. This is evident in their acclaimed game Journey, and they’ve carried some of this aesthetic charm over to their mobile title, Sky: Children of Light. Employing a similar visual design, this is a 3D exploration game with a global community. As the children of light, you’re assigned the role of exploring a tranquil yet lively world teeming with nature. As you delve deeper into its mysteries, you’ll unearth new memories, shedding light on the narrative. Initially, it’s hard to believe that this is an indie mobile game due to its quality, as it appears to be a high-end title from a major studio. It has made our list of the most beautiful mobile games, which speaks volumes right off the bat.

12 Badland 2

Publisher: Frogmind Games
Available on: iOS
Find out more about Badland 2

The timeless appeal of a silhouetted style lies in its ability to evoke an enigmatic and suspenseful atmosphere. Gamers may be motivated by a yearning for a favorable outcome amidst despair, which can potentially be achieved in BADLAND 2 by Hype Hype Inc. In this game, you’ll control a fluffy winged character, navigating treacherous passages and physics challenges by tapping to fly. As your weight and movement are your only tools, master the use of various devices to modify these characteristics and progress to the next level.

The mysterious allure of silhouettes is unlikely to fade, as they evoke a sense of intrigue and unease. In BADLAND 2 by Hype Hype Inc., this atmosphere can inspire players to seek a positive resolution in challenging circumstances. As a winged, fuzzy character, you’ll need to tap to soar through dangerous tunnels and solve physics puzzles. With only your weight and motion at your disposal, be sure to utilize various devices to adjust these traits and advance to the next level.

13 Mars: Mars

Developer: Pomelo Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Mars: Mars

Although we haven’t physically landed on Mars yet, there have been countless tales written about it. People often perceive Mars as a challenging and inhospitable place, but it’s intriguing to explore its landscapes from a more playful perspective. That’s exactly what Pomelo Games has done with the game “Mars: Mars”. In this game, you control a tiny astronaut equipped with a jetpack who explores Mars as much as possible. The jetpack isn’t very efficient due to limited fuel, making the goal to see as much of Mars as you can before your journey ends.

14 Cultist Simulator

Publisher: Weather Factory
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Cultist Simulator

As a seasoned gamer with years of experience under my belt, I must say that Cultist Simulator piqued my curiosity from the moment I first heard about it. The intriguing premise of delving into the mysterious world of cults and exploring their hidden secrets is something that has always fascinated me, both in real life and in video games.

What sets Cultist Simulator apart from other games is its unique blend of strategy, card-based gameplay, and narrative storytelling. The lack of a tutorial adds an extra layer of challenge, as you’re left to your own devices to figure out the intricacies of the game mechanics. This approach appeals to me because it allows for a more immersive and personal experience, as I feel like I’m truly uncovering the secrets of this cultist world on my own terms.

The use of cards, actions, and combinations adds a level of depth and replayability that keeps me coming back for more. I love the sense of discovery as I explore different card combinations and strategies, and the possibility to summon beings from other dimensions or take control of characters adds an element of unpredictability that keeps things exciting.

In short, Cultist Simulator is a game that appeals to my sense of adventure and curiosity. It’s a challenging and engaging experience that offers a unique perspective on the world of cults and allows me to explore this topic in a way that few other games do. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a fresh, immersive, and thought-provoking gaming experience.

For enthusiasts of this particular genre, we offer top-tier simulation games for Android devices, as well as recommendations for the best simulation apps for iOS users.

15 Sparklite

Publisher: Playdigious
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Sparklite

In a roguelike game like Sparklite, your earnings from each playthrough can increase your influence over the outcomes. This indie mobile game developed by Playdigious finds you assuming the role of a craftsman navigating a world that is in a state of perpetual transformation. From lush forests to crumbling ruins, you’ll encounter hostile creatures and shifting machinery at every turn. Armed with an array of equipment for combat and progression, and with a keen eye for valuable resources, you can make the most of each attempt, even if you fail. Each setback offers another opportunity to create something new and enhance your skills further.

16 Burrito Bison

Developer: Ravenous Games
Publisher: Juicy Beast Studio
Available on: iOS
Find out more about Burrito Bison

1) Burritos are incredibly satisfying due to the large amount of contents they can hold within a single tortilla. Their name, which sounds delightful, was chosen by Kongregate for their game Burrito Bison. This vibrant 2D game features a lively, festive world filled with sweet treats. You play as either Burrito Bison or one of his allies, engaging in wrestling matches and using your punches to propel yourself across candy bears and other characters. The goal is to travel as far as possible, shattering pinatas along the way.

This version retains the original’s essence while making it more accessible and easier to understand for readers.

17 Honeycomb: Word Puzzle

Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Honeycomb: Word Puzzle

If you’re in search of an engaging new word game, give Honeycomb: Word Puzzle a try! This game offers a variety of intriguing challenges, where you must fill a honeycomb-shaped puzzle with a hexagonal grid. The objective is to link words together by snaking them through the grid. It’s a delightful and rewarding experience, as you’ll even get congratulated by an adorable bee when you solve the puzzles successfully!

18 Phantom of Opera

Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Phantom of Opera

Among the most esteemed classical novels, “The Phantom of the Opera,” has been adapted into various forms of media. Yet, it was unexpected when MazM transformed this classic novel into a mobile game. In the Phantom of Opera game, you delve into an interactive visual novel filled with animated characters roaming through the legendary opera house. Here, you’ll encounter all familiar faces and unravel their personal tales alongside others. The storyline aligns with the original text, and mini-games are included to heighten the suspense and terror.

19 Exoracer

Developer: Nyan Studio Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Exoracer

Exoracer is an exhilarating multiplayer action-platformer where the goal is to dash through various stages, aiming for the quickest finish time. With a myriad of levels at your disposal, and a level editor feature that lets you create unique worlds, you can even share your creations with others! This game is all about speed and excitement, especially when playing with friends!

20 Cat Bird

Developer: Ryan Carag
Publisher: Raiyumi
Available on: iOS + Android
Find out more about Cat Bird

For years, cats and birds have been portrayed as natural adversaries, making it rare to find them coexisting harmoniously. Yet, Raiyumi has managed to combine the two in an extraordinary way with the protagonist of Cat Bird. This unique character is a small white feline endowed with underdeveloped avian wings, allowing you to fly by flapping through diverse 2D platforming stages. These stages range from simple forest landscapes to immense caves that plunge deep beneath the surface. What’s more, the creature appears capable of traversing space as you’ll visit a variety of different planets during your journey.

With Cat Bird, we have come to the end of the list of best indie mobile games at the moment! We have a similar article about Switch indie games if you own that wonderful console as well!

2025-01-02 12:20