Video games have come a long way, transforming from bare 8-bit adventures into stunningly realistic, immersive experiences. Today’s gaming landscape offers an incredible variety of genres, platforms, and story-driven narratives, making it challenging to choose your next adventure. Whether you’re a dedicated console player, a PC enthusiast, or a mobile gaming aficionado, there’s no shortage of exciting titles to explore. In this guide, we highlight five of the best games currently available, spanning action-packed shooters, open-world RPGs, and everything in between.
PCMag, gaming isn’t just a hobby. It’s a passion. With nearly two decades of experience reviewing mobile games, we understand how the often-overlooked world of Android gaming fits into the broader gaming ecosystem.
Recommending the best Android games is no small task, but you can trust our rigorous testing and independent reviews to guide you toward the best experiences. Whether you’re looking for a casual card game to pass the time or want to take things up a notch with a mobile controller for serious gaming, the Google Play Store has something for everyone.
The Legend of Zelda
The Legend of Zelda series has long been a pillar of the gaming industry, and its latest installment, Tears of the Kingdom, elevates the franchise to unprecedented heights. Building upon the success of Breath of the Wild, this action-adventure masterpiece expands the world of Hyrule with deeper gameplay mechanics, a more immersive open world, and enhanced storytelling.
Players once again take on the role of Link, embarking on a grand journey to rescue Princess Zelda and thwart the dark forces threatening the kingdom. What sets Tears of the Kingdom apart is its unparalleled level of exploration, intricate puzzle-solving, and a refined combat system that keeps players engaged from start to finish.
With the ability to traverse Hyrule on foot, by air, or with various vehicles, the game introduces new mechanics that offer unprecedented freedom. Its breathtaking environmental puzzles, captivating narrative, and masterfully designed dungeons make for an unforgettable gaming experience.
Why It’s a Must-Play:
- Expansive open-world exploration with new traversal mechanics.
- Challenging puzzles and dungeon designs that test your wit.
- Stunning art direction and an enchanting soundtrack.
- A dynamic combat system that rewards strategy and skill.
For fans of adventure games, Tears of the Kingdom is an absolute must-play. It delivers one of the most immersive and rewarding experiences in gaming today.
Baldur’s Gate 3
Platform: PC, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S
Genre: Role-Playing, Turn-Based Strategy
For fans of deep, story-driven RPGs, Baldur’s Gate 3 is an absolute must-play. Developed by Larian Studios, this critically acclaimed title is set in the Dungeons & Dragons universe and builds upon the rich legacy of its predecessors. Players embark on an epic journey, crafting their own characters, selecting their origins, and making pivotal choices that shape the game’s world.
At its core, Baldur’s Gate 3 features a turn-based combat system inspired by Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition rules. This ensures battles are highly strategic, rewarding tactical thinking and careful planning. Beyond combat, the game offers a branching narrative where every decision—whether forging alliances, engaging in moral dilemmas, or exploring intricate relationships—has meaningful consequences.
The game also shines in its co-op multiplayer mode, allowing friends to experience the adventure together, making it one of the best cooperative RPG experiences available.
Why It’s a Must-Play:
- Deep, choice-driven storytelling with far-reaching consequences.
- Extensive character customization and immersive role-playing options.
- Strategic turn-based combat that challenges even seasoned players.
- High replayability, thanks to its dynamic choices and multiple outcomes.
With its rich storytelling, intricate world-building, and profoundly engaging gameplay, Baldur’s Gate 3 sets a new standard for RPGs and is an essential experience for any role-playing enthusiast.
Spider-Man 2
Platform: PlayStation 5
Genre: Action-Adventure, Superhero
Superhero games have evolved tremendously, and Spider-Man 2 for the PlayStation 5 stands as a shining example of how to capture the excitement and depth of comic book storytelling. Developed by Insomniac Games, this highly anticipated sequel builds upon the success of Marvel’s Spider-Man (2018) and Spider-Man: Miles Morales (2020), delivering an even more immersive and action-packed experience.
In Spider-Man 2, players take control of both Peter Parker and Miles Morales, each boasting unique abilities and combat styles. The game introduces seamless character switching, allowing players to experience different perspectives while tackling high-stakes battles, solving intricate puzzles, and patrolling the vibrant streets of New York City. The fluid web-swinging mechanics, coupled with exhilarating combat and a deeply engaging narrative, make this one of the best superhero games to date.
The story is a major highlight, featuring iconic villains like Venom and Kraven the Hunter, along with compelling personal struggles that showcase the emotional depth of being Spider-Man.
Why It’s a Must-Play:
- Breathtaking visuals that showcase the full power of the PlayStation 5.
- Seamless character switching between Peter Parker and Miles Morales.
- Fast-paced combat and dynamic web-swinging mechanics.
- A gripping storyline filled with iconic villains and emotional depth.
For fans of superheroes, open-world action, and cinematic storytelling, Spider-Man 2 is an essential PlayStation 5 experience that should not be missed.
Starfield
Platform: PC, Xbox Series X/S
Genre: RPG, Space Exploration
After more than 25 years, Bethesda Game Studios has introduced its first new intellectual property—Starfield, an ambitious open-world RPG set in the vastness of space. This highly anticipated title offers an expansive, procedurally generated universe, allowing players to embark on an interstellar journey filled with exploration, faction-based decisions, and deep role-playing mechanics.
In Starfield, players take on the role of a space explorer, navigating the galaxy, engaging in diplomacy or combat, and uncovering the mysteries of the cosmos. The game boasts detailed character customization, skill trees, and a complex crafting system, ensuring a genuinely personalized adventure. Whether you’re battling enemy ships, mining resources on distant planets, or immersing yourself in rich storytelling, Starfield delivers an unparalleled space-faring experience.
Why It’s a Must-Play:
- Immersive space exploration with thousands of planets to visit.
- Deep RPG mechanics, including intricate character progression and decision-making.
- Stunning visuals and a meticulously crafted open-world experience.
- Expansive lore filled with engaging quests, side missions, and hidden secrets.
For fans of sci-fi adventures and open-world RPGs, Starfield is a must-play that redefines space exploration gaming.
Hogwarts Legacy
Platform: PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Genre: Action-Adventure, RPG
Step into the Wizarding World like never before with Hogwarts Legacy, an immersive open-world RPG set in the 1800s—long before the events of Harry Potter. This highly anticipated game allows players to create their witch or wizard, attend classes at Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and uncover a mysterious ancient magic that could change the fate of the wizarding world.
The game features stunning open-world exploration, allowing players to roam through Hogwarts, Hogsmeade, the Forbidden Forest, and beyond. With a dynamic spell-casting combat system, magical creatures, and rich RPG mechanics, Hogwarts Legacy offers complete player freedom—whether you choose the path of a noble wizard or delve into the darker arts.
Why It’s a Must-Play:
- Authentic Wizarding World experience, perfect for Harry Potter fans.
- Engaging in magical combat, spell-casting, and creature encounters.
- Open-world exploration with iconic locations and hidden secrets.
- A captivating original story with moral choices and character-driven outcomes.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan of J.K. Rowling’s universe or an RPG enthusiast looking for an enchanting adventure, Hogwarts Legacy delivers a spellbinding gaming experience.
Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile
One of the most anticipated battle royale games, Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile, brings console-quality action to Android. The game promises high-definition graphics, real-time multiplayer battles, and optimized controls for mobile devices. With cross-platform support and seasonal updates, this game is set to dominate the mobile shooter genre.
Key Features:
- Realistic battle royale experience with large maps
- Customization options for weapons and characters
- Smooth gameplay with enhanced touch controls
Genshin Impact 2.0
MiHoYo’s hit RPG, Genshin Impact, continues to evolve with its 2.0 version in 2025. Players can expect new regions, powerful characters, and improved combat mechanics. With an expansive open-world environment, Genshin Impact remains one of the top Android games for adventure lovers.
What’s New in 2025?
- New elemental powers and characters
- Expanded storylines with more profound lore
- Optimized graphics for a smoother experience
Honkai: Star Rail – Galactic Wars
Following the success of Honkai: Star Rail, its sequel, Galactic Wars, takes players on an interstellar adventure with stunning visuals, deep character customization, and engaging turn-based battles. The game introduces real-time co-op missions and dynamic space battles, making it a must-play for sci-fi RPG fans.
Why You Should Play:
- Strategic turn-based combat with enhanced AI
- Vibrant graphics and engaging storytelling
- Multiplayer co-op mode for teamwork-based missions
Minecraft: Pocket Edition 2025
The classic sandbox game Minecraft continues to thrive with its 2025 edition, which features new biomes, creatures, and crafting elements. Players can now explore an even larger world with AI-driven NPCs, enhanced survival mechanics, and improved multiplayer support.
What’s New?
- Procedural generation enhancements for better world-building
- New mobs and crafting recipes
- Seamless online multiplayer experience
PUBG Mobile: Future Wars
The popular battle royale game PUBG Mobile gets a futuristic makeover with advanced weapons, sci-fi maps, and AI-powered enemies. This 2025 edition promises a faster-paced experience with dynamic weather conditions and destructible environments.
What’s New?
- Enhanced battle environments with interactive objects
- More fluid movements and parkour mechanics
- AI-driven bots to improve solo gameplay
Conclusion
With 2025 promising an exciting lineup of Android games, players can look forward to enhanced gameplay, richer storytelling, and innovative multiplayer experiences. Whether you’re a fan of action-packed shooters, RPGs, or casual simulators, this list ensures that you won’t miss out on the best Android games to play in 2025. Keep an eye out for official releases and updates to stay ahead in the mobile gaming world!
