Best Arcade Games for Android, iPhone, PC, and iPad

Arcade games never go out of style. Whether you’re drawn to fast-paced challenges or nostalgic classics, these games deliver endless entertainment. From Android to iPhone, PC to iPad, here are some of the best arcade games you can dive into right now.

Top Arcade Games for Android

Android hosts a vast collection of arcade hits. These games stand out for their addictive gameplay and creative mechanics.

Game 1: Dead Cells

This roguelike action platformer is a fan favorite for its fast and fluid combat. You battle through ever-changing levels filled with deadly traps and enemies. The visuals are stunning, blending retro art with modern design. Dead Cells regularly receives updates, adding new content to keep things fresh.

For a full list of great Android games, check out PCMag’s Best Android Games.

Game 2: BombSquad

BombSquad transforms simple multiplayer fun into chaos. You throw bombs at friends (or foes) across a variety of game modes like Capture the Flag or Hockey. Its intuitive controls and entertaining visuals make it perfect for quick sessions. Inviting your squad over? All you need is a phone for the most explosive fun.

Game 3: Streets of Rage 4

Relive the golden era of side-scrolling beat-em-ups with this modern take on a classic. Streets of Rage 4 retains everything that made the original great while adding polished graphics and new characters. Android players craving that old-school arcade feel will love this.

Best Arcade Games for iPhone

The iPhone’s polished interface and powerful performance make it an excellent device for arcade gaming. Here are the top titles.

Game 1: Apple Arcade Titles

Apple Arcade offers exceptional arcade games like Assemble With Care, a delightful game about repairing broken objects with a touching narrative. Another standout is Fantasian, designed by the creator of Final Fantasy. Its diorama-inspired visuals are as engaging as the story. Look at VG247’s Apple Arcade picks for more gems.

Game 2: Sonic Dream Team

If you’ve loved Sonic over the years, Sonic Dream Team brings the same high-speed action to iPhones with fresh twists. Its vibrant graphics and fluid gameplay elevate Sonic’s iconic adventures.

Game 3: Rayman Mini

Ubisoft’s Rayman steps into playful mini-adventures where shrinking down makes the ordinary world a giant playground. Its smooth touch controls and engaging platforming make it a pleasure to play.

Must-Play Arcade Games for PC

The PC is a treasure trove for arcade gamers, delivering titles with diverse mechanics and rich visuals.

Game 1: Cuphead

Known for its hand-drawn animation and unforgiving difficulty, Cuphead is a masterpiece. Players tackle bosses and platforming sections that demand skill and patience. If you enjoy a challenge wrapped in 1930s-inspired artwork, this one’s for you.

Browse more PC options on Steam’s Top Arcade Games.

Game 2: Enter the Gungeon

Escape a bullet-hell dungeon and gather quirky weapons in Enter the Gungeon. Its replayability comes from randomized levels and eccentric enemies. With co-op mode, you can even bring a friend into the chaos.

Game 3: Hollow Knight

Part arcade, part exploration, Hollow Knight is renowned for its mesmerizing visuals and atmospheric sound. Its expansive underground world is every explorer’s dream.

Best Arcade Games for iPad

An iPad’s larger screen enhances the arcade experience, making these games stand out.

Game 1: Monster Hunter Stories+

Monster Hunter Stories+ is exclusivity reimagined for Apple Arcade. Its stunning graphics and refined gameplay shine best on iPads. Players collect and train monsters as they journey across expansive lands.

For similar titles, see Apple Arcade Recommendations by MensJournal.

Game 2: Stela

Like a visual poem, Stela offers a side-scrolling journey through haunting but beautifully crafted environments. It’s immersive storytelling at its finest, paired with atmospheric puzzles.

Game 3: VVVVVV

This indie darling blends retro charm with mind-bending puzzles. The gravity-flipping mechanic in VVVVVV is simple yet challenging, making it perfect for quick play sessions.

Conclusion

Arcade games capture the essence of fun: short, thrilling experiences you can go back to anytime. Whether you’re on Android, iPhone, PC, or iPad, these games cater to every taste. Don’t just play; explore—you might find your next favorite in the list above.