Mobile gaming continued to carve its own niche in 2023. Out of more than 1000 iOS releases we tracked this year, here are the highest-rated based on critic and gamer reviews. Presenting the best iOS games of 2023.
10. Harry Potter: Magic Awakened
This is a completely different spin on the magical franchise. This is a deck-building adventure taking place in the Harry Potter universe.
Collecting powerful cards means grinding for better rewards. Of course, fans of card games will find this acceptable. But new players might be intimidated with its microtransactions and power creeps.
Even with all that, if you’re a fan of the franchise, there’s a lot of fun to be had. Brew potions, summon monsters, and meeting familiar faces are some of its highlights. It has a playscore of 8.8.
9. WHAT THE CAR?
Mobile games enter absurd territory! WHAT THE CAR? is a perfect example. You might be wondering, is it a racing game? The answer is Yes and No. The obvious thing to do when you’re racing a car is to drive but this game does not care.
You can jump, slide, or swim your way across its many levels… as a car. Don’t ask. That’s just how the game works.
Apple Arcade subscribers will find this a delightful surprise with its vibrant levels and humor. A playscore of 8.8.
8. Unpacking
For 10 dollars you can experience this cozy organizing game. Unpacking is all about moving out and unpacking stuff.
There’s really nothing more to its gameplay, but what surprised me the most is its hidden story. There’s a narrative as you slowly unpack the items. I won’t spoil it for you. For a game that doesn’t involve dialogue, it sure is an interesting direction.
Unpacking is the kind of game to play when you want to relax after a long day. Or revel in the satisfaction of stacking books and objects. It has a playscore of 8.8.
7. Brotato: Premium
Brotato is a perfect game for iOS devices. It doesn’t take too much time and you get just the right dopamine boost. Blowing alien heads is that satisfying. This is really the ideal “turn-your-brain-off-and-enjoy” kind of game.
For 5 dollars, this Premium version is a hassle-free purchase if you hate in-game ads. However, a lot of players from the community would advise against it. Since the FREE version offers more options to play. This includes the ability to revive after watching an AD and getting a bunch of talent cards. A playscore of 8.9.
6. Usagi Shina
Bunny-lovers rejoice! This free idle game is all about taking care of these little critters. Usagi Shina takes you to an abandoned island full of these cute furies. You can improve this empty land into a sanctuary for your bunnies to explore and enjoy.
Discover, take photos, and make friends with a variety of bunnies that visit based on how you’ve decorated and arranged the island. It’s a cozy game built for players who want no stress. It receives a playscore of 8.9.
5. Super Cat Tales: PAW
If you’re not into bunnies, how about cats? Lead your feline friends as they protect their NEKO island from dangers.
For a game about cats, it doesn’t try to ruin our day with complicated combat and other tedious gaming tasks. It’s essentially a platformer where you jump, collect things, and reach your goal. Like Super Mario with a lot more meowing involved.
No complicated controls here, just a lot of fun, feline shenanigans. Who knew saving the world could be so adorably whisker-twitching? A playscore of 8.9.
4. Ridiculous Fishing EX
Apple Arcade subscribers will have more Ridiculous Fishing with EX. It is a major improvement from its 2013 version. Adding in a slew of new content and gameplay fixes. With all its new stuff, it might even pass off as a Remake.
Also this is not a true fishing game. The ‘ridiculous’ is there for a reason. You’re not just using your fishing rod to get exotic fishes, you also blow them up in hilarious shooting action. Try it for yourself. A playscore of 9 out of 10.
3. Hello Kitty Island Adventure
We have yet another Apple Arcade gem with Hello Kitty Island Adventure, a must-play for fans of cozy games. Like other life sims, there’s so much to do in this adorable digital world. Decorate your home, cook tasty meals, and explore an island full of lovable Sanrio characters.
You can also do a lot of special activities involving fishing, uncovering island secrets, and exploring other areas. There’s tons of content here for a mobile game. It’s like your pocket version of Animal Crossing or the Sims. It has a playscore of 9.1.
2. Lost In Play
A mesmerizing tale told in a distinct art style. Lost In Play feels like watching an episode from Over The Garden Wall, Gravity Falls or any Cartoon Network classic. The best part about it is that you’re controlling these characters and their decisions in this surreal world. With just a few taps of your fingers, you’re whisked into Lost In Play’s imaginative playground.
It’s a point and click adventure, so there’s little pressure when dealing with its narrative. You’ll encounter a few puzzles along the way but they’re not too difficult to hamper your progress. In fact, these puzzles provide much-needed variety. It receives a playscore of 9.2.
1. TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge
TMNT: Shredder’s Revenge claims the title of the Best iOS game of 2023. With your Netflix account, you can enjoy this retro brawler for free!
The game’s success boils down to how fun it is. Playing as the Turtles and its cast of supporting characters feels like watching the old TV show again. This makes beating the crap out of Shredder’s Goons even more satisfying.
You can also play with up to 5 of your friends in online co-op. That’s like all the four turtles and 2 extra characters. It’s the complete TMNT experience and you can play it with the palm of your hands. It’s the best with a playscore of 9.4.