There are more than two million apps for both major mobile platforms – Android and iOS – available today, with almost a quarter of them being games, some of them exclusive to their platforms, others available on both, plus desktop computers or web browsers. There are mobile games everyone hears about thanks to the piles of cash put into their promotion by their publishers. These are often “triple-A” games tied to well-known series – think Call of Duty Mobile, Fortnite, or PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds. There are, in turn, many small titles, often built by indie developers, that deserve a spot on the ultimate Android apps list. 

Archero

Archero is an arcade title where you guide an archer through several levels filled with scary monsters that – as you might expect – they have to finish off with a bow and arrow in their hand. This may sound easy – and it is, at first – but becomes increasingly difficult as you progress through the levels. 

The game takes a unique approach to powerups: they are randomly assigned with each new level reached by the player. When leveling up, players get three random choices – the combinations of power-ups can be better or worse, adding a unique spin to the gameplay. While at first, it might not feel like it, Archero is a truly addictive and exciting game.

Alto’s Odyssey

Some games rely on shots fired and enemies terminated, others, on puzzles to be cracked and mysteries to be solved. Alto’s Odyssey is different in a refreshing and relaxing way.

You can join Alto and his friends on their endless sandboarding journey across a variety of biomes, encounter various obstacles to overcome and powerups to collect, too. The game is easy to learn and very relaxing to play – except when it’s not, of course, because there are some that can be tough at times. The developers didn’t call the game “difficult to master” for nothing.

What makes the game especially relaxing is its “Zen” mode where there are no scores, no powerups, no enemies, just you and the desert, along with a serene, relaxing soundtrack.

Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast

At first sight, Iron Maiden: Legacy of the Beast looks little more than your average mobile role-playing title. What makes it special is its theme: as its name suggests, it is a game built around the music of the British rock band Iron Maiden and the various faces of its mascot, Eddie.

Eddie’s soul is shattered by an evil entity and scattered across time and space. It’s up to our fierce antihero to recover all of its shards while defeating an increasingly tough lineup of enemies. In the game, players get the chance to meet 12 faces of the monstrous mascot, join forces with 80 allies, and 40 Talismans that play the role of power-ups. And all this with Iron Maiden’s music – often previously unreleased recordings – playing in the background.