If you enjoy mobile gaming, you've probably come across acronyms like ARPG, FPS, or MMORPG without being entirely sure what they mean. Don't worry, you're not alone. Discover the different types of games available on Android: ARPG, FPS, sandbox, and more.
To help you with this, we've prepared a comprehensive guide so you can understand what type of game each of these acronyms represents. That way, when you see a game described as an "open-world ARPG with roguelike mechanics," you'll know exactly what it means.
ARPG: for those looking for non-stop action role-playing
We're starting with one of the most powerful genres on mobile: ARPGs, which stands for "Action Role-Playing Game." Basically, they're role-playing games where combat takes place in real time. Forget about turns or menus: here you control the character, dodge, attack, and execute skills instantly.
The interesting thing about ARPGs is that they combine the adrenaline rush of action games with the progression of role-playing. You level up, improve your skills, acquire more powerful equipment, and unlock new areas. On Android, titles like Genshin Impact or AnimA ARPG are examples of ARPG games.
In the first, you navigate a Zelda-style open world, with a very agile and visually spectacular combat system. In the second, you have a darker, Diablo-like experience, where the pace is faster and the goal is to farm until you become unstoppable.
If you're into action but want a system that allows you to improve and feel constant progress, this genre will grab you.
FPS: first-person shooter
Next up is another classic: the FPS, or "First Person Shooter ." You'll recognize it quickly: these are games where you see everything from the character's perspective, and the objective is usually to shoot, survive, and gain a tactical advantage. The first-person camera is its defining characteristic.
On Android, there are options for all tastes, from pure competitive play with games like Call of Duty: Mobile to more frenetic experiences like Shadowgun Legends or Modern Combat. The great thing about these games is that they've evolved significantly in terms of touch controls, and it's no longer so unusual to feel comfortable aiming with your thumb. Plus, many of them have multiplayer modes, ranking, clans, and events that extend the experience.
Sandbox: so you can play your own game
When a game is defined as a sandbox, it means it lets you do practically whatever you want. There's no set path or single objective: you decide what to do, how, and when.
The best example of this is Minecraft, a game where you can explore, build, fight, gather materials, or simply get lost in a randomly generated world. Another sandbox game on Android that has gained a lot of popularity is Terraria, which, although 2D, has incredible depth in terms of exploration and creation.
The beauty of sandbox games is that every game can be different. You can focus on building your ideal home, creating an entire city, exploring caves, or fighting bosses. It's total freedom.
MOBA: Team Battles with Strategy
If you've ever played League of Legends or Dota 2 on PC, you'll know what a MOBA is: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena. On Android, this genre has grown tremendously thanks to games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and League of Legends: Wild Rift.
The idea is simple: two teams of five players fight to destroy the enemy base, moving across a map with three lanes, defensive towers, and jungle areas. Each player chooses a hero with unique abilities, and teamwork is key to avoiding defeat in the arena. Keep in mind that these games are highly competitive, with a strategic component that makes them have a steep learning curve.
Turn-based RPG: calm strategy
Here we slow down the keystroke a bit. Turn-based RPGs are role-playing games where combat is resolved in turns, like a game of chess. You attack, then the enemy, and so on.
Android has some real gems of this genre, like Final Fantasy Brave Exvius, Another Eden, and Evertale. If you have Netflix, download Civilization V because it's addictive. The great thing about these games is that they usually have compelling stories, well-crafted worlds, and tons of characters to collect and upgrade.
Roguelike: When dying is part of the game
Roguelikes and their close cousins, roguelites, are based on a clear premise: you're going to die a lot. And that's okay. In these games, every playthrough is different, the maps change, the enemies vary, and every attempt is an opportunity to learn and improve.
Games like Dead Cells and Soul Knight perform very well on Android. The former offers challenging combat and a polished aesthetic, while the latter offers a lighter, more arcade-like experience. But both share the same core: you advance, die, start over... a little stronger each time.
Simulation and management: create your empire
If you prefer something more relaxed, where you can build, plan, and make decisions, simulation and management games are perfect. It's not about running and shooting, but about organizing and optimizing.
On Android, you can find city simulators like Pocket City, airline simulators like Airlines Manager, and soccer simulators like Football Manager 2024 Mobile, also free on Android. You can even manage a farm, a restaurant, or your own galaxy.
Casual and arcade: to kill time
Finally, we couldn't leave out casual and arcade games, perfect for short, uncomplicated sessions. Games like Crossy Road, Subway Surfers, and Geometry Dash fall into this category. They're fast, easy to understand, and perfect for when you have five minutes to spare and don't want to delve into anything too complex. That doesn't mean they lack quality. Many casual games are very well made and incredibly addictive. But they're designed to entertain without demanding too much.