Best Mobile Games without Microtransactions

Microtransactions are the most common ways for mobile games to generate revenue. Developers let players download their titles for free but will offer in-app purchases to make the gaming experience more convenient or more competitive. These mobile games can be inconvenient for free-to-play gamers, as they’re almost always at a disadvantage.

Luckily, not every great mobile game is built with in-app purchases included. In fact, below are some of the best mobile games you can play without microtransactions.

Best Mobile Games without Microtransactions

Naroth

Naroth is a first-person open-world RPG that’s 100% free-to-play with no ads and no in-app purchases. It’s heavily inspired by the Elder Scrolls saga, so you’re free to walk around the map, hunt animals, and even burn a few villages along the way. The main story is only roughly 12 to 15 hours long, but as a game that was born as a result of one developer’s passion for programming, it’s an absolute must-play. 

Platforms available: Android

Pixel Dungeon

Pixel Dungeon is a roguelike dungeon crawler mobile game where heroes are subject to certain permadeath. Players can choose to play a number of classes, enchant their weapons, and craft materials to increase their chances of surviving. The deadly rooms of Pixel Dungeon are randomly generated, which can be anything from a booby-trapped prison to a dark cave with unforgiving monsters. It’s a different experience every retry.

There are no microtransactions but you do have to pay $2.99 to purchase the whole game.

Platforms available: iOS, Android

Doom and Destiny

Of course, if you’re looking for a more traditional RPG, then Doom & Destiny might be more up your alley. Doom & Destiny is a 16-bit RPG set in a world with all the fantasy stereotypes, such as magic, quests, and princesses. For a small one-time purchase of $0.99, you, too, can get started on this massive and nerd-filled adventure with an oddly well-written script

Platforms available: iOS, Android

Reigns

Reigns is a decision-making game where the goal is to sit on your throne for as long as possible. Every decision has ever-changing consequences, so you need to be extra careful to keep their influence (and life) throughout their reign. For example, you have to manage resources wisely to avoid revolts, constantly look out for spies, and even appease your Queen when she starts requesting things (but not too much).

Reigns is told in a unique, swipe-to-select card format, which led it to win Google Play Store’s “Most Innovative Game” Award in 2016.

Platforms available: iOS, Android

Underhand

Underhand is an eldritch horror choose-your-own-adventure card game where you’re given the role of a cult leader whose dream is to summon the “Ancient One.” Throughout the game, you must carefully manage your cult’s resources and adequately respond to crises to ensure that your people stay hidden and in power. All in all, Underhand is a thrilling game that presents a different experience every time it’s played.

Platforms available: Android

Cytoid

If you’re a huge fan of rhythm games—and a bigger fan of Cytus’ format—then you’re going to love Cytoid. Cytoid is a free-to-play rhythm game where you tap notes as they overlap with the lines on the screen. And despite it being transaction free, there are still a ton of seasonal and collaboration events to look forward to.

Since it’s open-source, Cytoid’s contents are fully community-fueled. Most beat maps and songs are created by your fellow Cytoid players. You, yourself, have the opportunity to make your own stuff as well.

Platforms available: iOS, Android

Wordscapes

Before Wordle became immensely popular, the internet had the fun and addictive puzzle game called Wordscapes. Wordscapes give players a set of letters they must use to fill up a crossword board. Levels can only be completed if you find the longest word that can be formed, but you do get bonus words for forming words that are not included on the board. It’s ideal for both players who can only play games for a few minutes at a time.

Platforms available: iOS, Android

Pocket City Free

Pocket City Free is a city-building sim game where the goal is to grow your town into the perfect metropolis. You even get to simulate urgent city emergencies, such as crime and fire, which keeps things unpredictable and challenging.

The only catch with the free version of Pocket City is the fact that you start with absolutely nothing (no city, no buildings, and no land) which is perfectly fine. To obtain the resources that you need, you will have to complete quests, do great deeds, and keep your citizens happy—no real money purchases necessary. You might need to sit through a couple of ads though.

Platforms available: iOS, Android

If you’re interested in more mobile game recommendations, check out 10 Best Co-Op Mobile Games and Top 8 Best Mobile Horror Games.