Best Free Android Games: Five Early Favourites Revisited
Archive note. This story reflects what was known when it was first covered. Prices, availability and carrier offers are historical. For the current picture, start with the topic guides.
Tap Tap Revenge 4
A rhythm game that was first on the author’s list. It had online support for playing with friends, free and paid extra tracks, and the author could transfer an old profile from an iPhone to a Nexus S. It is more fun with a friend to challenge.
Angry Birds, Rio and Seasons
A simple game anyone can pick up, with countless levels and some frustrating ones. The free Android versions were ad-supported, with a banner in a corner that was mostly out of the way, while the iPhone versions cost 99 cents.
Stardunk
A basketball game for a couple of spare minutes. Each round lasts about two minutes, and different balls and power-ups keep it fresh. Online support stores your best scores and lets you challenge friends through Facebook.
Gun Bros
A top-down shooter in which you fight waves of enemies for experience points and a currency you turn into money. Money buys power-ups, upgraded guns and armour. A computer-controlled partner fights beside you and uses the gear of a Facebook friend. On Android, online play was not available yet, so the partner stayed at basic equipment. The game said online was coming soon.
Slice It
You cut a shape into equal parts or whatever the level asks. It is strangely addictive and has some learning value for younger players, so it works for a parent and child playing together.
Why a list like this is personal
The best game depends on the player, because tastes and play styles differ. These are only the author’s favourites at that time.
Frequently asked questions
Were these games free?
Yes at the time, some with ads or optional paid content.
Which was good for children?
Slice It, which has some learning value.
Are they still on the Play Store?
Availability changes, so check the store.