Top 15 Free Android Games of This Year

Are you on the hunt for the best free Android games to elevate your mobile gaming experience? Look no further! We've curated a list of the top free Android games of this year that promise to entertain, challenge, and captivate you, all without costing a dime.

By Stephan Baugh
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Fact checked by Steven Jacob

With the mobile gaming world growing incredibly fast, this year brings a fresh breeze of fun free-to-play Android games. And with such an extensive selection this Year, There’s something for everyone. So, without further ado, here are our top 15 free Android games you should check out this year:

1. Harry Potter: Magic Awakened

  • Developer: Warner Bros. International Enterprises
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Role-playing (RPG)

Step into the magical world of Harry Potter with the Harry Potter Magic Awakened Game. It’s a strategic real-time card battle game. As you explore Hogwarts, you’ll encounter familiar faces, collect magical cards, and engage in thrilling duels. The game’s beautiful art style and immersive RPG elements make it a must-play for fans of the wizarding world.

Why We Like It: The nostalgia of the Harry Potter universe combined with strategy makes it a real winner. The card collection aspect adds depth, whilst the familiar art style brings the world to life. Some might find the in-app purchases tempting, but they’re unnecessary and completely optional to enjoy the game.

2. Clash Royale

  • Developer: Supercell
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Strategy

Clash Royale combines card collection, tower defense, and real-time strategy into one mobile package. Players collect and upgrade cards featuring Clash of Clans troops, spells, and defenses and then use them to knock down their opponent’s towers in real-time multiplayer battles.

Why We Like It: The mix of strategy and quick thinking makes every match exciting. The card collection and upgrading mechanics keep you returning for more, and the colorful characters add a fun, not-so-serious touch. The community is massive and ensures something new through regular updates. Much like Clash of Clans, the in-app purchases can speed things up just like buying an account does, but the game is perfectly playable without spending money.

2. Marvel Snap

  • Developer: Nuverse
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Strategy

Marvel Snap is a fast-paced card game that combines deck-building with the Marvel Universe in ways similar to the Harry Potter game. The game features quick matches and familiar characters, ensuring fun without the pay-to-win mechanics we’ve known to expect. Microtransactions are limited to cosmetic items, making it a fair and enjoyable experience.

Why We Like It: It’s quick and fun, perfect for a quick gaming fix. The strategic elements are also engaging and manageable, and it’s fantastic to see so many Marvel characters in one place.

3. Vampire Survivors

  • Developer: Poncle
  • Cost: Free with optional DLC
  • Genre: Arcade

This addicting bullet-hell shooter challenges you to survive waves of bizarre creatures while exploring and unlocking various weapons. The mobile version retains all the charm and excitement of its PC counterpart, with minimal ads and optional DLCs for more extended play.

Why We Like It: It’s pure, chaotic fun. The wave after wave of enemies keeps the adrenaline pumping, and the variety of weapons keeps things interesting. Minimal ads mean you can stay focused on the action, and the optional DLC is just there if you want more.

4. Rocket League Sideswipe

  • Developer: Psyonix Studios
  • Cost: Free
  • Genre: Sports

Rocket League Sideswipe brings the popular competitive car game to mobile with a 2D twist. The game offers fast-paced PvP action with intuitive touch controls or optional controller support.

Why We Like It: It’s Rocket League on the go! The 2D twist makes it feel fresh while retaining car soccer’s core fun. The lack of monetization is a huge plus, meaning every match is fair and square.

5. Sky: Children of the Light

  • Developer: thatgamecompany inc
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Role-playing (RPG)

From the creators of Journey, Sky: Children of the Light is a breathtaking MMO that emphasizes exploration and non-verbal communication. Soar through beautiful, open-world environments, solve puzzles, and connect with other players in this enchanting and heartwarming game.

Why We Like It: The art and music are stunning, creating a calming and beautiful atmosphere. The non-verbal communication with other players is a unique touch that fosters a sense of community without words. Some might find the in-app purchases a bit much, but the core experience is still rich without them.

6. Pokémon Go

  • Developer: Niantic, Inc.
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Adventure

Still going strong, Pokémon Go continues to entertain players with regular events, raids, and a constantly expanding roster of Pokémon. Explore the real world, catch Pokémon, and compete in gyms in this iconic AR game.

Why We Like It: It gets you moving and exploring the real world, which is a nice change from sitting on the couch. The regular events keep things fresh, and there’s always something new to catch or battle.

7. AnimA ARPG

  • Developer: Redeem
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Role-playing (RPG)

Fans of Diablo will appreciate AnimA ARPG, a dark and gritty hack-and-slash game with excellent controls, quality graphics, and a brilliant soundtrack. The game is well-monetized, with in-app purchases limited to cosmetics that do not affect gameplay.

Why We Like It: It scratches Diablo’s itch perfectly with its dark, moody atmosphere and intense combat. The controls are smooth and intuitive, making it a joy to hack and slash your way through enemies. Knowing you’re not forced to buy power-ups makes the experience even better.

8. Brawlhalla

  • Developer: Ubisoft Entertainment
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Action

Brawlhalla is a free-to-play platform fighter that offers cross-play support and a variety of game modes. Customize your characters with cosmetic items and battle it out in fun, fast-paced matches. Controller support is recommended for the best experience.

Why We Like It: It’s like Smash Bros. for your phone! The cross-play support means you can brawl with friends no matter what device they use, and the fast-paced action is perfect for short bursts of play.

9. Call of Duty: Mobile

  • Developer: Activision Publishing, Inc.
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Action

Call of Duty: Mobile brings the FPS franchise to mobile devices, offering classic maps, multiplayer modes, and satisfying gunplay. The game supports touchscreen and controller inputs and includes regular updates with new content.

Why We Like It: It’s the Call of Duty experience in your pocket. The controls are surprisingly good for a mobile shooter, and having classic maps and modes makes it feel like a full-fledged Call of Duty game.

10. The Ramp

  • Developer: Crescent Moon Games
  • Cost: Free
  • Genre: Arcade

The Ramp is a casual skateboarding game that focuses on creating smooth lines and transitions. With no in-app purchases or ads, this free-to-play game offers a pure and relaxing experience. Controller support is available for more precise controls.

Why We Like It: It’s a perfect chill-out game. There is no pressure or competition, just you and your board. The focus on smooth lines and transitions is relaxing, and the lack of ads or in-app purchases makes it feel like a breath of fresh air in a busy space.

11. Old School RuneScape

  • Developer: Jagex Games Studio
  • Cost: Free with an optional subscription
  • Genre: Adventure

This classic MMORPG offers a nostalgic trip back to the early days of online gaming. With cross-platform support and a subscription model for extra content, OSRS provides a deep and rewarding experience for new and returning players.

Why We Like It: The nostalgia factor is huge here. It’s a faithful recreation of a classic before RS3, and the cross-platform support means you can continue your adventure wherever you are. The optional subscription is there for those who want to dive deeper, but the free content alone is enormous.

11. The Battle of Polytopia

  • Developer: Midjiwan AB
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Strategy

This turn-based strategy game features low-poly graphics and endless replayability. The free version includes most content, with optional in-app purchases for additional tribes. Its simple yet deep gameplay makes it a standout in the genre.

Why We Like It: It’s easy to pick up but hard to master, which makes it incredibly replayable. The low-poly graphics are charming and functional, and the game balances depth and accessibility.

12. Roblox

  • Developer: Roblox Corporation
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Adventure

Roblox is a platform that allows users to create and play games made by other players. With endless possibilities and a vast community, Roblox offers a unique and ever-evolving gaming experience. It’s trendy among younger gamers.

Why We Like It: The creativity and variety are off the charts. There’s always something new to try, whether you’re playing games or creating your own.

13. Roach Race

  • Developer: CD Projekt Red
  • Cost: Free
  • Genre: Arcade

Originally a mini-game in Cyberpunk 2077, Roach Race is a fun and straightforward auto-runner that’s completely free to play. This charming game offers endless running fun without any in-app purchases or ads.

Why We Like It: Sometimes simple is best. Roach Race is straightforward, addicting, and completely free with no strings attached. It’s perfect for quick sessions and is surprisingly charming for such a simple game.

14. Clash of Clans

  • Developer: Supercell
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Strategy

In Clash of Clans, you build and upgrade your village, train troops, and attack other players to earn resources and trophies. The game also features clan wars, where you can team up with friends to battle other clans.

Why We Like It: The village-building aspect is incredibly satisfying, and the depth of troop placement and base layouts keep things interesting. Clan wars add a social element that makes the game even more engaging, where you team up with a small community. The in-app purchases can speed things up, but the game is perfectly playable without spending money.

15. Teamfight Tactics

  • Developer: Riot Games
  • Cost: Free with in-app purchases
  • Genre: Strategy

Teamfight Tactics is an auto-battler where you draft, deploy, and battle with a team of champions from the League of Legends universe. Position your units, choose the best synergies, and outsmart your opponents to be the last one.

Why We Like It: The strategic depth and variety of champions make every game feel different. It’s a game of skill and luck that keeps things exciting. The art and animations are top-notch. While some opt for coaching to improve at Teamfight Tactics, the in-app purchases are entirely cosmetic, just like League of Legends, so you can compete on an even playing field without spending a single dime.

Your Turn to Weigh In

So, there you have it, the top 15 free Android games of 2024, and what a lineup it is! Whether you’re into casting spells in Hogwarts or battling it out in fast-paced card duels with your favourite Marvel characters, this list has something to keep everyone glued to their screens.

I’ve shared my picks, but now I’m curious about yours! Which games are you adding to your must-try list? Maybe you’ve got a hidden gem that didn’t make the cut or think one of these doesn’t deserve the hype? Drop your thoughts, and let’s get this debate rolling!