Best iPhone Games in 2023

Mobile gaming has taken the world by storm, and the iPhone has played a significant role in this meteoric rise. The convenience of having a powerful gaming device in your pocket has made it possible for people of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy games anywhere, anytime. From casual gamers to seasoned enthusiasts, the App Store offers a plethora of gaming experiences that cater to diverse tastes and preferences.

The history of iPhone games dates back to the release of the first iPhone in 2007. With its revolutionary touch screen interface and advanced processing capabilities, the iPhone quickly became the perfect platform for game developers to create innovative and immersive gaming experiences. Over the years, the App Store has seen the release of numerous groundbreaking titles that have pushed the boundaries of mobile gaming and helped shape the industry as a whole.

This article comprehensively lists the best iPhone games available on the App Store. Our selections are based on factors such as graphics, gameplay, replay value, and cost. We have also categorized the games by genre to help you find the perfect game for your tastes and preferences. Without further ado, let’s dive into the world of iPhone gaming.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best iPhone Games

Graphics and design

The visual appeal of a game can significantly impact the overall gaming experience. High-quality graphics and design can make a game more immersive and engaging, which is especially important in a mobile gaming environment where screen real estate is limited.

Gameplay

Smooth and responsive gameplay is crucial for an enjoyable gaming experience. A well-designed game should have intuitive controls, engaging mechanics, and a balance between challenge and reward.

Replay value

Replay value refers to a game’s ability to provide an enjoyable experience even after the player has completed it once. This could be due to branching storylines, multiple difficulty levels, or the presence of competitive multiplayer modes.

Cost

While many iPhone games are available for free, some premium titles require an upfront purchase or offer in-app purchases to enhance gameplay. Balancing cost against the quality and longevity of a game is essential when choosing the best iPhone games.

Best iPhone Games by Category

Best Puzzle iPhone Games

Monument Valley 2

Monument Valley 2 is a visually striking puzzle game developed by ustwo games. Players guide a mother and her child through a world of stunning, Escher-inspired architecture, manipulating the environment to create new pathways and solve puzzles. With its enchanting visuals, atmospheric soundtrack, and mind-bending level design, Monument Valley 2 is a captivating puzzle game on the iPhone.

The Room Three

The Room Three is an atmospheric and enigmatic puzzle game developed by Fireproof Games, the third installment in the acclaimed The Room series. Players find themselves on a mysterious, isolated island and must navigate through intricately designed rooms filled with perplexing puzzles and mechanical contraptions. By solving these puzzles, players gradually unveil a captivating narrative and uncover the secrets behind a shadowy figure, “The Craftsman.”

Threes!

Threes! is an elegantly designed, highly addictive puzzle game developed by Sirvo LLC that challenges players’ strategic thinking and mathematical skills. The gameplay revolves around the simple yet engaging concept of combining numbered tiles on a 4×4 grid by swiping them in various directions. The primary goal is to create the highest possible number by merging tiles bearing multiples of three, with each successful combination yielding a higher score.

The Witness

The Witness is an open-world puzzle game developed by Jonathan Blow, creator of the critically acclaimed game Braid. Players explore a beautifully rendered, mysterious island filled with intricate puzzles that challenge their perception and logic. With its non-linear structure, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking gameplay, The Witness offers a deeply immersive puzzle experience on the iPhone.

Lara Croft GO

Lara Croft GO is a turn-based puzzle-adventure game developed by Square Enix Montreal, set in the iconic Tomb Raider universe. Players control Lara Croft as she navigates through ancient ruins, solving increasingly complex puzzles and battling enemies to uncover long-lost secrets. With its stylish visuals, challenging gameplay, and familiar Tomb Raider atmosphere, Lara Croft GO offers an engaging puzzle experience on the iPhone.

Prune

Prune is a unique and relaxing puzzle game developed by Joel McDonald. Players cultivate and shape the growth of trees by pruning their branches and guiding them toward the sunlight while avoiding obstacles. Prune provides a tranquil and contemplative puzzle experience on the iPhone with a minimalist art style, soothing soundtrack, and meditative gameplay.

Two Dots

Two Dots is an addictive and visually appealing puzzle game developed by Playdots, Inc. Players connect and eliminate colored dots on a grid, utilizing various power-ups and special abilities to overcome increasingly challenging levels. With its simple yet engaging mechanics, vibrant visuals, and hundreds of levels, Two Dots offers endless hours of puzzle-solving fun on the iPhone.

Best Adventure iPhone Games

Broken Age

Broken Age is a beautifully hand-painted point-and-click adventure game developed by Double Fine Productions. Players follow the parallel stories of Vella and Shay, two teenagers in different worlds, as they challenge the traditions of their respective societies. With its captivating story, charming characters, and engaging puzzles, Broken Age offers an enchanting adventure experience on the iPhone.

Machinarium

Machinarium is a visually striking point-and-click adventure game developed by Amanita Design. Players guide a small robot named Josef through a beautifully hand-drawn world, solving intricate puzzles and interacting with quirky characters to uncover the robot’s mysterious past. With its imaginative settings, challenging gameplay, and unique art style, Machinarium has become a beloved adventure title on the iPhone.

Firewatch

Firewatch is a first-person adventure game developed by Campo Santo, set in the Wyoming wilderness. Players control a fire lookout named Henry as he navigates the beautiful yet mysterious Shoshone National Forest while uncovering a gripping story. Featuring stunning visuals, expertly crafted narrative, and emotional character interactions, Firewatch delivers a deeply immersive adventure experience on the iPhone.

Gorogoa

Gorogoa is an innovative and visually stunning puzzle-adventure game developed by Jason Roberts. Players manipulate beautifully hand-drawn panels, rearranging and combining them to create new scenes and advance the narrative. With its unique gameplay mechanics, intricate puzzles, and mesmerizing art, Gorogoa offers a truly original adventure experience on the iPhone.

Oxenfree

Oxenfree is a supernatural thriller adventure game developed by Night School Studio, blending a coming-of-age tale with eerie paranormal elements. Players follow a group of friends who unwittingly unleash supernatural forces on an abandoned island. Featuring a choice-driven narrative, atmospheric visuals, and an immersive, dynamic dialogue system, Oxenfree delivers a compelling and mysterious adventure on the iPhone.

Inside

Inside is a dark and atmospheric puzzle platformer that follows a young boy as he journeys through a dystopian world. With its haunting visuals and engaging gameplay, Inside is a must-play for fans of atmospheric adventure games.

Limbo

Limbo is a minimalist and eerie platformer that tells the story of a young boy searching for his sister in a mysterious and dangerous world. With its monochromatic visuals and challenging gameplay, Limbo offers adventure game enthusiasts a memorable and thought-provoking experience.

Best Role-Playing iPhone Games

Genshin Impact

Genshin Impact is a popular open-world action role-playing game (RPG) available on the iPhone. Developed by miHoYo, the game takes place in the visually stunning and expansive world of Teyvat, home to seven distinct nations, each inspired by different real-world cultures. Players assume the role of the “Traveler,” who embarks on an epic quest to find their lost sibling while unraveling the mysteries of Teyvat.

Genshin Impact features an elemental-based combat system that allows players to switch between a diverse roster of characters, each possessing unique abilities and elemental affinities. By combining these elemental powers strategically, players can create powerful reactions and overcome various challenges in the game.

The game’s gacha system enables players to unlock new characters and equipment by spending a virtual currency called “Primogems,” which can be earned through gameplay or purchased with real money. Genshin Impact boasts impressive graphics, a captivating storyline, and an immersive soundtrack, making it an excellent gaming experience for iPhone users. Its cross-platform compatibility allows players to enjoy the game seamlessly across multiple devices, including PC, PlayStation, and other mobile platforms.

The Witcher: Monster Slayer

The Witcher: Monster Slayer is an augmented reality (AR) role-playing game (RPG) developed by Spokko and based on the popular Witcher franchise. Players take on the role of a Witcher, a monster hunter, and embark on quests to track and slay various beasts in the real world using their iPhone. With its immersive AR gameplay, engaging storyline, and deep character progression, The Witcher: Monster Slayer offers a unique and captivating RPG experience on the iPhone.

Bastion

Bastion is an action-RPG developed by Supergiant Games, featuring a stunning hand-painted art style and a dynamic narration system that adapts to the player’s actions. Players control the Kid, a survivor of a catastrophic event, as he explores a post-apocalyptic world, battles enemies, and collects powerful weapons and upgrades. With its compelling story, rich atmosphere, and responsive combat system, Bastion delivers an unforgettable RPG experience on the iPhone.

Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King is a classic Japanese RPG developed by Square Enix, offering a vast, vibrant world to explore and a turn-based battle system. Players embark on an epic quest to save the kingdom of Trodain from an evil curse, recruiting allies and battling various monsters along the way. With its charming cel-shaded visuals, engaging story, and memorable characters, Dragon Quest VIII is a must-play for RPG fans on the iPhone.

Chrono Trigger

Chrono Trigger is a timeless RPG developed by Square Enix, featuring a time-traveling adventure, memorable characters, and a deep, engaging story. Players control a group of heroes as they journey across various eras, battling enemies and altering the course of history to save the world from destruction. With its innovative Active Time Battle system, captivating narrative, and iconic soundtrack, Chrono Trigger remains a beloved RPG experience on the iPhone.

Battle Chasers: Nightwar

Battle Chasers: Nightwar is a turn-based RPG developed by Airship Syndicate, inspired by classic console RPGs and the Battle Chasers comic book series. Players assemble a team of heroes with unique abilities and skills to explore a rich, hand-crafted world filled with dungeons, secrets, and challenging enemies. With its deep combat system, strategic gameplay, and stunning visuals, Battle Chasers: Nightwar offers a fresh, engaging RPG experience on the iPhone.

Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition

Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition is a streamlined version of the popular console RPG, tailored for mobile devices. Players follow the journey of Prince Noctis and his friends as they embark on an epic quest to reclaim their homeland. With its engaging story and accessible gameplay, Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition is an excellent choice for RPG fans.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a farming simulation game that allows players to cultivate their dream farm, build relationships with the townspeople, and explore a vast world filled with secrets. With its charming pixel art visuals and seemingly endless content, Stardew Valley provides a relaxing and immersive RPG experience.

The Elder Scrolls: Blades

The Elder Scrolls: Blades is a mobile RPG set in the popular Elder Scrolls universe. Players create a customizable character and embark on quests, battles, and exploration in a beautifully rendered world. With its impressive graphics and deep gameplay mechanics, The Elder Scrolls: Blades is an excellent addition to the RPG genre on iPhone.

Best Strategy iPhone Games

XCOM: Enemy Within

XCOM: Enemy Within is a critically acclaimed turn-based strategy game developed by Firaxis Games and brought to the iPhone by 2K Games. Players lead an elite paramilitary organization, XCOM, in a desperate fight against an alien invasion. With its deep strategic gameplay, base management, and squad customization, XCOM: Enemy Within offers a challenging and immersive experience for strategy fans on the iPhone.

Rebel Inc.

Rebel Inc. is a unique simulation and strategy game developed by Ndemic Creations, the creators of the popular game Plague Inc. Players are tasked with stabilizing a war-torn region by balancing military and civilian needs while countering insurgent activities. With its realistic mechanics, varied scenarios, and thought-provoking gameplay, Rebel Inc. provides a compelling strategic challenge on the iPhone.

Rome: Total War

Rome: Total War is a classic real-time strategy game developed by Creative Assembly and brought to the iPhone by Feral Interactive. Set during the rise of the Roman Empire, players choose a faction and strive to conquer the known world through diplomacy, trade, and warfare. With its epic scale, deep tactical battles, and engaging historical setting, Rome: Total War delivers an exceptional strategy experience on the iPhone.

Kingdom Rush

Kingdom Rush is a highly popular tower defense strategy game developed by Ironhide Game Studio. Players defend their kingdom from hordes of fantastical creatures by strategically placing and upgrading various towers and deploying heroes with unique abilities. Kingdom Rush offers hours of strategic entertainment on the iPhone with its charming cartoonish visuals, challenging gameplay, and numerous levels.

Invisible, Inc.

Invisible, Inc. is a turn-based tactical strategy game developed by Klei Entertainment, featuring stealth and espionage elements. Players control a team of skilled agents infiltrating corporate facilities to gather intelligence and valuable assets. With its randomly generated levels, deep strategic gameplay, and striking art style, Invisible, Inc. provides iPhone users a captivating and challenging strategy experience.

Clash Royale

Clash Royale is a real-time strategy game that combines elements of collectible card games, tower defense, and multiplayer online battles. Players collect and upgrade cards featuring iconic characters from the Clash universe and battle against other players in fast-paced, strategic matches. With its competitive gameplay and frequent updates, Clash Royale offers endless entertainment for strategy fans.

Civilization VI

Civilization VI is a turn-based strategy game that tasks players with building and leading a civilization from the Stone Age to the Information Age. Players manage resources, research technologies, and engage in diplomacy and warfare to achieve victory. With its deep gameplay and numerous expansions, Civilization VI provides a rich and complex strategy experience on the iPhone.

The Battle of Polytopia

The Battle of Polytopia is a turn-based strategy game featuring charming pixel art graphics and simple yet deep gameplay mechanics. Players choose a tribe and expand their civilization by exploring, researching, and conquering new territories. With its quick matches and procedurally generated maps, The Battle of Polytopia offers endless replay value for strategy enthusiasts.

Best Action iPhone Games

Call of Duty: Mobile

Call of Duty: Mobile is a high-octane, first-person shooter game developed by TiMi Studios and published by Activision. It brings the iconic Call of Duty franchise to the iPhone, offering a wide range of multiplayer modes, including Team Deathmatch, Domination, and Battle Royale. With console-quality graphics, customizable controls, and a vast array of weapons, Call of Duty: Mobile delivers an intense, engaging, action-packed experience for iPhone users.

Shadowgun Legends

Shadowgun Legends is a visually stunning, futuristic, first-person shooter developed by MADFINGER Games. Players assume the role of a Shadowgun, an elite warrior, and fight against an alien threat to protect humanity. The game features an immersive single-player campaign, cooperative multiplayer missions, and competitive multiplayer modes. With its impressive graphics, engaging gameplay, and a vast arsenal of weapons and gear, Shadowgun Legends offers a top-notch action experience on the iPhone.

Hyper Light Drifter

Hyper Light Drifter is a stylish, action-adventure game developed by Heart Machine that pays homage to classic 16-bit titles. Players explore a vast, mysterious world filled with dangerous enemies, hidden secrets, and challenging puzzles. The game’s vibrant pixel art, atmospheric soundtrack, and intense combat make it a standout title for action fans on the iPhone.

PUBG Mobile

PUBG Mobile is a popular battle royale game developed by Tencent Games, bringing the renowned PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds experience to the iPhone. Players are dropped onto a remote island with up to 99 other players, to be the last person standing. Players must strategize and adapt to survive the ever-shrinking battlefield when scavenging for weapons and supplies. With regular updates, varied gameplay modes, and realistic graphics, PUBG Mobile offers iPhone users an engaging and action-packed experience.

Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP

Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP is an action-adventure game with a unique pixel art aesthetic, developed by Capybara Games. Players control a wandering warrior-monk on a quest to solve ancient mysteries and defeat supernatural adversaries. The game features a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and real-time combat. With its distinctive visual style, engaging gameplay, and atmospheric soundtrack, Superbrothers: Sword & Sworcery EP provides a memorable action experience on the iPhone.

Alto’s Odyssey

Alto’s Odyssey is an endless runner that combines beautiful visuals with addictive gameplay. Players control Alto and his friends as they sandboard through diverse landscapes, performing tricks and avoiding obstacles. With its relaxing soundtrack and satisfying gameplay, Alto’s Odyssey is a must-play for action game fans.

Brawl Stars

Brawl Stars is a fast-paced multiplayer action game from the creators of Clash of Clans and Clash Royale. Players choose from various unique characters and participate in various game modes, including team battles and solo showdowns. With its colorful visuals, diverse characters, and competitive gameplay, Brawl Stars offers endless fun for action game enthusiasts.

Dead Cells

Dead Cells is a roguelike action-platformer that combines fast-paced combat with procedurally generated levels. Players control a reanimated corpse as they battle their way through a mysterious island, unlocking new abilities and weapons along the way. With its challenging gameplay and near-infinite replay value, Dead Cells is a must-play for fans of action games.

Best Racing iPhone Games

Asphalt 9: Legends

Asphalt 9: Legends is Gameloft’s latest installment in the highly successful Asphalt racing game series. This arcade-style racing game features a wide selection of real-world cars from renowned manufacturers, stunning graphics, and dynamic weather effects. Players can participate in various single-player career modes or compete against others in multiplayer races. With its intuitive touch controls and the innovative “Touch Drive” system, Asphalt 9: Legends offers an exhilarating racing experience on the iPhone.

Real Racing 3

Real Racing 3 is a realistic racing game developed by Firemonkeys Studios and published by Electronic Arts. The game offers many licensed cars and tracks, focusing on realistic physics and graphics. Real Racing 3 features numerous game modes, including Time Trial, Head-to-Head, and online multiplayer events. The game’s extensive career mode and regular updates make it a must-play for racing simulation enthusiasts on the iPhone.

GRID Autosport

GRID Autosport is a premium racing game developed by Codemasters and brought to mobile devices by Feral Interactive. This console-quality racing game offers a diverse range of cars and disciplines, including touring cars, endurance races, and street races. With its highly detailed graphics, customizable controls, and a robust career mode, GRID Autosport provides a deep and immersive racing experience on the iPhone.

CSR Racing 2

CSR Racing 2 is a visually stunning drag racing game developed by NaturalMotion. Players can collect, customize, and upgrade various licensed cars from popular manufacturers. The game features a single-player campaign, online multiplayer, and crew events, providing a variety of challenges for players to tackle. With its realistic graphics, detailed car interiors, and addictive gameplay, CSR Racing 2 is an excellent choice for drag racing fans on the iPhone.

Riptide GP: Renegade

Riptide GP: Renegade is a unique and thrilling hydro jet racing game developed by Vector Unit. Players take on the role of a hydro jet rider cast out of the Riptide GP league and must return to the top. The game features stunning water physics, spectacular stunt systems, and a futuristic setting. Players can compete in various game modes, including a deep career mode, online multiplayer, and split-screen local multiplayer. Riptide GP: Renegade offers an exciting and refreshing take on racing games for the iPhone.

How to Download and Play iPhone Games

Step-by-step guide to downloading and installing iPhone games:

1. Launch the App Store on your iPhone.
2. Tap the ‘Search’ icon at the bottom of the screen.
3. Type the name of the game you want to download in the search bar and hit ‘Search.’
4. Locate the desired game in the search results and tap on it.
5. Tap the ‘Get’ or the price button (for paid games) to begin the download process.
6. If prompted, enter your Apple ID password or use Touch ID/Face ID to confirm the download.
7. Once the game is downloaded, it will appear on your home screen. Tap the icon to launch the game and start playing.

In-app purchases are additional content or features available within a game that can be purchased with real money. These may include cosmetic items, power-ups, or access to new levels and characters. While in-app purchases can enhance the gaming experience, using them responsibly is essential to avoid overspending.

1. Set a budget for in-app purchases and stick to it.
2. Disable in-app purchases or require a password for every transaction in the device’s settings.
3. Be aware of the true cost of in-app purchases, as small transactions can add up quickly.

Conclusion

This article has provided a comprehensive list of the best iPhone games, covering various genres such as puzzle, adventure, RPG, strategy, and action games. We have also discussed the factors to consider when choosing iPhone games, including graphics, gameplay, replay value, and cost.

The iPhone offers various gaming experiences that cater to diverse tastes and preferences. From casual gamers to seasoned enthusiasts, there is something for everyone in the App Store. The games listed in this article represent the best of what the platform offers, but it’s essential to remember that new and innovative titles are constantly being released.

We encourage you to explore the games featured in this article and discover the rich and diverse world of iPhone gaming. Whether you’re looking for a quick gaming session on the go or an immersive experience to get lost in, these games will provide hours of entertainment and enjoyment. Happy gaming!