This list compiles the best Android RPGs perfect for those long, dark winter nights (and the accompanying deluge). The genre thrives on extensive adventures in stunning environments, complemented by intricate systems and mechanics. We've curated a selection, excluding gacha titles (those are on a separate list). This focuses primarily on premium games offering complete experiences without in-app purchases.
Best Android RPGs
Let's delve into these role-playing gems.
Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic 2
A potentially controversial top pick, KOTOR 2 is a masterful touchscreen adaptation of a classic. It's expansive, brimming with compelling characters, and truly captures the essence of Star Wars.
Neverwinter Nights
For those who prefer fantasy over sci-fi, Neverwinter Nights offers a dark fantasy journey through the Forgotten Realms. Beamdog's enhanced edition of this BioWare classic is exceptional.
Dragon Quest VIII
Often hailed as the best Dragon Quest game, Dragon Quest VIII is also our top mobile JRPG. Square Enix's meticulous port ensures smooth gameplay, even in portrait mode for on-the-go play.
Chrono Trigger
A legendary JRPG, Chrono Trigger's mobile version naturally earns a spot. While perhaps not the ideal way to experience it, it's a viable option if other platforms aren't accessible.
Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions
Final Fantasy Tactics: The War of the Lions remains remarkably engaging. A strong contender for the ultimate strategy RPG, its mobile iteration shines.
The Banner Saga
Note: The third installment requires a different platform. The Banner Saga is a compelling, challenging, and deeply strategic experience, blending Game of Thrones with Fire Emblem. The series is well worth exploring.
Pascal’s Wager
A dark and atmospheric hack-and-slash ARPG, Pascal's Wager stands out as one of the best action RPGs, not just on mobile, but overall. Its rich content and innovative ideas make it a must-play.
Grimvalor
Grimvalor, a side-scrolling Metroidvania RPG, boasts stunning visuals and a Souls-like progression system.
Oceanhorn
Oceanhorn is considered the best non-Zelda game, and a visually impressive mobile title. However, the sequel is Apple Arcade exclusive.
The Quest
A frequently overlooked first-person dungeon crawler, The Quest draws inspiration from classics like Might & Magic, Eye of the Beholder, and Wizardry. Its hand-drawn visuals and ongoing expansions are noteworthy.
Final Fantasy (Series)
No RPG discussion is complete without Final Fantasy. Several excellent titles from the series, including VII, IX, and VI, are available for Android.
9th Dawn III RPG
Despite the slightly misleading title, 9th Dawn III: Shadow of Erthil is a polished RPG. This top-down adventure is massive, featuring exploration, loot, monster recruitment, and even a built-in card game, Fyued.
Titan Quest
A former Diablo competitor, Titan Quest's mobile port, while not perfect, provides a hack-and-slash experience if other options are unavailable.
Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth
Valkyrie Profile, with its Norse mythology setting, is a fantastic RPG series. Lenneth's mobile version is particularly well-suited for on-the-go play, offering convenient save points.