Google's Android and Apple's iOS are the biggest names in the mobile operating system market with less than 1% of users running a different operating system on their device. And between the two dominant forces, the gap is fairly even.
Apple takes the lion's share in Japan, the US and the UK, but in other big markets: Germany, China, Brazil, Nigeria and India. Android clearly comes out on top. One thing is certain, regardless of which platform you choose, there are a plethora of games at your fingertips; from high-budget immersive experiences to casual, time-killing indie titles.
The mobile gaming market is now worth over $100 billion USD with an estimated 2 billion gamers playing monthly. But what are the best Android games to play in 2022? We take a look at the selection of the group.
Online slots
A somewhat surprising success story in the mobile gaming domain is the recent acquisition of online slots. Perhaps we should have seen it coming, slots translate exceptionally well on smart devices and play times can be quick, as short as one or two spins of the reels, which is perfect for players on the go with limited free time to spend. engage. And they couldn't be easier to learn.
There is a lot to choose from on the Play Store, from great contributions from developers - Monopoly Slots and Rainbow Riches, to casual games for free titles. We are still awaiting the mobile port of the unexpectedly well-received roguelike title, 'Luck Be A Landlord', which has a fruit machine mechanic at its core.
Sky: Children of the Light
At the other end of the spectrum, Thatgamecompany, Inc's Sky: Children of the Light is a beautifully animated adventure game that you can easily lose yourself in for hours on end. This is the first title in the catalog of the American independent game development company available on the Google Play Store and allows you to explore a magical world, discovering bits of history as you go.
Uniquely, in Sky: Children of the Light, you can team up with friends remotely and play through the story together. Although in-app purchases are available, they are mostly cosmetic, so you can enjoy a relatively full experience for free.
Stardew valley
Originally released as a Windows game in 2016, ConcernedApe's Stardew Valley is a fun simulation RPG where you inherit and renovate a dilapidated family farm in the mythical land of Stardew Valley. The game is open-ended, so you can escape to your farm whenever you want and not worry too much about completing it or “progressing”.
Often compared to titles like Animal Crossing in character, there's a seemingly endless array of activities your character can undertake that never feel too repetitive or like you're just grinding. Stardew Valley got a big update in 2021 that includes multiplayer support, so there's still plenty of content for you to sink your teeth into. And if you become a fan, you'll be happy to hear that Eric'ConcernedApe'Barone's next game, The Haunted Chocolatier, is on the way.
Mini meter
Mini Metro is a terrifyingly addictive strategy puzzler where the goal is to create a perfect transportation network in real-world metropolises. The minimal art style is reminiscent of the London Underground map and therefore works great on even older mobile devices.
As the demands on the city's infrastructure increase, you'll find you have to get smarter and smarter to ensure everyone gets to where they need to be on time. Despite these pressures, the sound design and overall feel of the game is very zen and a great distraction from the daily commute.
GRID Autosport
GRID Autosport is a standard-bearer for the progress mobile technology has made: it looks better than any racer that even the highest-spec PCs were running just ten years ago. The game was developed by Codemasters, and Feral Interactive was responsible for the port to Android.
Opt for the single player campaign mode and develop his racing career from scratch; advancing through dozens of upgrades, new cars and race tracks. The developers admit there has been a push towards arcade style driving and away from extreme simulation in this title, so you can be sure the learning curve isn't too steep and the fun is immediate.
pokemon unite
Whether you're a fan of Pokémon or missed out on the craze entirely, Pokémon Unite from TiMi Studio Group is worth a look. This offering from the sprawling franchise fits right into the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) category and is action-packed right out of the box.
The title is certainly kid-friendly, so the basics are easy to learn but getting more skillful takes some practice and dedication. Testimony to this is the game's inclusion in this year's Pokémon World Championships for esports. The new League of Legends: Wild Rift is probably best suited for the more die-hard fans of the genre, but Pokémon Unite scores high for potential to learn and play.
With loads of new games hitting the Play Store every day, the choice for the Android gamer is not a problem; Hopefully there is something in this summary that appeals to you.
