How to easily find the best mobile games that worth playing

Have you ever find yourself in a situation whereby you search a game title on your phone app store and you're left with "thousands of questionable titles that simply aren't worth your time?" If yes, then you're not alone. However, it's important to also note that beneath the questionable titles are a handful mobile games that'll definitely worth your time.

Need help sorting out good games amidst the questionable titles? Here's a look at how I find the best mobile games on iOS and Android.

1. Unlock Premium Mobile Gaming with Apple Arcade or Google Play Pass

Subscribing to Apple Arcade or Google Play Pass is a convenient way to discover top-quality mobile games. These services curate a selection of the best games available on their respective platforms, making it easier for you to find and enjoy premium titles.

Apple Arcade offers a collection of 200+ games that can be played across various Apple devices, including iPhone, iPad, Mac, Apple TV, and Apple Vision Pro. Key features of Apple Arcade include no ads or in-app purchases, the ability to play games online or offline, and Family Sharing, which allows up to six family members to access the service with a single subscription.

Apple Arcade's game library covers a wide range of genres, from puzzles and strategy to sports and adventure. Some notable titles include Sneaky Sasquatch, Sonic Dream Team, and Castlevania: Grimoire of Souls. New games and updates are added regularly, and the service features exclusive "Arcade Originals" as well as popular "App Store Greats."

Launched in 2019, Apple Arcade has grown from 71 games to over 200, and it's available for $6.99 per month, with a one-month free trial for new users. It can also be bundled with other Apple services through the Apple One subscription.

Google Play Pass, on the other hand, offers a subscription service for Android users, providing access to over 1,000 apps and games without ads or in-app purchases. The service features a diverse library that includes popular games like Stardew Valley, Monument Valley, and Dead Cells, as well as various productivity and creativity apps.

Subscribers can share the service with up to five family members and enjoy regular updates with new content added frequently. The subscription costs $5 per month or $30 per year, making it a cost-effective option for Android users.

While both Apple Arcade and Google Play Pass offer excellent value, it's important to monitor how often you're using the service to ensure it's worth the subscription fee. If you find yourself struggling to discover good games on the App Store or Google Play, these services could be a great solution. However, be mindful of their limitations and consider your gaming habits before committing to a subscription.

2. Discovering Top Mobile Games Through Editor's Choice and Personalized Recommendations

To discover the best new mobile games, checking the Editor's Choice section in the App Store or Google Play Store is a great starting point. This curated section, sometimes labeled as "Editor's Choice" or "What We're Playing Now," highlights popular and trending games like PUBG Mobile, Zenless Zone Zero, and Diablo Immortal. While not every game featured here is a hit, it's a reliable place to find quality titles.

Additionally, exploring the "Based On Your Last Downloads" section can help you find games tailored to your preferences. This feature offers recommendations based on your download history, which might lead you to hidden gems like Coffee Golf. Since these sections are frequently updated, it's worth revisiting them regularly to discover new games that match your interests.

3. Using Reddit Communities to Discover the Best Mobile Games

Leveraging communities like Reddit can make it easier to find good games that actually worth your time and worth playing. Subreddits like iOSGaming, MobileGaming, and AndroidGaming offer a wealth of recommendations from fellow gamers. You can browse others' selections or post your own requests for specific game types. For instance, users have recommended games like Papers, Please and Dead Cells on iOS, and even suggested the Plato app for those seeking multiplayer options.

One of the biggest advantages of using Reddit is the constant stream of new posts and recommendations, providing a dynamic and ever-updating resource for discovering great games. Regularly checking these subreddits can lead you to hidden gems and keep you informed about the latest popular titles.

4. Use Emulator

Emulators on Android and iOS like Delta will allow you to play retro games by running ROMs of their favorite childhood titles on your smartphones. Popular choices include Pokémon, Zelda, Metroid, and Sonic. While emulators don't come with games, they offer the flexibility to play a wide range of classics. Each emulator has unique features, so it's worth exploring different options to find one that best suits your gaming preferences.

5. Exploring the Value of Paid Mobile Games

While free mobile games offer extensive playtime without cost, it's worth exploring paid games as well. Popular titles like Minecraft, Plague Inc., and Kingdom Rush 5 provide a premium gaming experience without the interruptions of microtransactions or ads. These games often resemble their PC and console counterparts and are typically developed by the same companies.

Choosing a few paid games can be a great alternative to subscription services like Apple Arcade or Google Play Pass, which also primarily feature paid games. If you prefer avoiding a monthly fee, investing in a selection of paid games that interest you can be a satisfying option for enjoying high-quality gaming experiences.

6. Using Metacritic

Metacritic is a valuable resource for discovering the best mobile games, thanks to its comprehensive search features. By selecting "Explore Games" from the main menu, you can filter specifically for mobile games, allowing you to narrow down your options effectively. You can also apply various filters, such as release year or genre, and check out upcoming releases to stay ahead of new titles.

However, Metacritic’s mobile game catalog is somewhat limited compared to other platforms, with around 50 titles from 2019 to 2024. For a broader selection, including iconic games from previous years, expanding the search back to 2010 reveals over 1,300 mobile games. This makes Metacritic a useful tool for finding both current hits and classic favorites like Crashlands or Bastion.

7. Using Editor's Choice, Personalized Recommendations, and More

Both the App Store and Google Play Store feature a section dedicated to the top mobile games of the day, often labeled as "Editor's Choice" or "What We're Playing Now." This curated area highlights some of the best new releases and popular games, offering a convenient way to discover standout titles. While not every game here is a guaranteed hit, it's a good place to find acclaimed games like PUBG Mobile, Zenless Zone Zero, and Diablo Immortal.

In addition to browsing these highlighted games, checking the "Based On Your Last Downloads" section can provide personalized recommendations based on your download history. This feature can lead to discovering great games, such as Coffee Golf, which might not be immediately visible in the Editor's Choice section. Since these recommendations are updated frequently, revisiting them often can help you find new favorites.

To maximize your mobile gaming experience, explore various methods like subscribing to Apple Arcade, using emulators for retro games, or checking out the Editor's Choice section for the latest releases. Don't hesitate to explore different genres or franchises, as you might uncover your next favorite game. With these approaches, you can easily keep your phone filled with engaging and high-quality games.