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The best 15+ travel games for your phone that work offline

January 3, 2023 by Karen Turner 4 Comments

As someone with limited data, I’m always astounded how few apps work well offline and without data. I’m often toying with a new phone app that I can play while on the road.  After far too many apps that I’ve burned through during a long bus ride, I’ve asked my fellow bloggers for their favorite travel game apps for iPhone and Android that work perfectly offline, so even if you’re on a long plane ride, you can still enjoy playing on your phone!  I’ve tried to focus this list on thought-provoking games for your phone that challenge your mind, rather than games that just keep you busy (as they’re addictive).

• Monument Valley

Don’t Starve

Plague inc..

• Leo’s Fortune
• Alto’s Adventure

Reigns: Her Majesty

Old man’s journey, the escapists.

• Life is Strange

Lumosity: Train of Thought

Hit the light.

It’s good to note that not all of these apps are free and I strongly recommend buying a power bank if you’ll be playing a lot of travel games during your trip on your phone.  Games can really kill your battery, especially when the screen is bright.

• 1.1 Monument Valley (and its sequels)
• 1.2 Device6
• 1.3 Don’t Starve
• 1.4 80 days
• 1.5 Plague Inc.
• 1.6 Crossword
• 1.7 Heads Up
• 1.8 Leo’s Fortune
• 1.9 Alto’s Adventure
• 1.10 Blackbar
• 1.11 Broken Age
• 1.12 Solitaired
• 1.13 Reigns: Her Majesty
• 1.14 Old Man’s Journey
• 1.15 The Escapists
• 1.16 Life Is Strange
• 1.17 Framed
• 1.18 Lumosity: Train of Thought
• 1.19 Hearts
• 1.20 Wordescapes
• 1.21 Solitaire Bliss
• 1.22 Hit the Light
• 1.23 Minesweeper
• 1.24 What’s your favorite travel game on your phone?

The best game apps for travel for iPhone and Android

Monument valley (and its sequels).

From the moment I discovered this game in House of Cards, I was addicted to this elegant game. Its beautiful Escher-like concept together with its clever puzzles make it a joy to play.  I’ve bought the sequels as well. It has the feel of a puzzle game without the strain of doing a puzzle.     (My husband is begging me for a turn!)

Buy for iPhone / Android

Device6 is a clever and unique game only for iPhones. For game lovers who are looking for different and mind-bending, try out this game. It integrates literature with fantasy and puzzles. We don’t want to ruin the surprise!

Buy for iPhone

If you are looking for something to keep you occupied during an 8-hour flight, look no further than “Don’t Starve”. In its essence, Don’t Starve is a wilderness survival game. Your character is dropped in an unfamiliar wasteland and your task is, quite simply, not to die.

Unlike most other games today, Don’t Starve doesn’t come with a tutorial which means it’s 100% up to you to figure out how to play this game. It is challenging and engaging. You need to be strategic and creative.

You’ll need to figure out how to feed yourself, how to defend yourself against enemies, and how to find shelter. If you die, you will have to start over from scratch and the world you find may be entirely different from the previous.

Challenge yourself and see how long you can survive. With my best efforts, I haven’t made it past 8 days yet! It may be a paid game, but it is worth every cent and works perfectly without an internet connection! Just be warned, it’s almost impossible to put down 😉  – Jacky

I love this choose-your-own adventure game where you try to help your character get around the world.  Along the way, your character will get into all sorts of trouble (of course). 

Maybe it’s my love of travel, but I have an intense love for the Victorian steampunk world full of delight, splendor, and laughs.  It’s fun to play this with a friend sitting next to you–and you’ll not want to put this game down.

Ever dream of destroying the human race?  Want to destroy the human race without being labeled a mass murderer?  Try Plague Inc.  Plague Inc. is a strategy game where you become a small microbe and get to infect people around the world.  The goal is to spread quickly and kill of the humans before they notice and decide to start creating a cure.

This game is a major time killer.  The standard game has four different microbes you can become at 4 difficulty levels. Each microbe has different characteristics.  The different levels can make the game easy or hard.  Each game is different and that’s not just due to the microbe or difficulty level. 

You have to evolve your microbe.  How you chose to affect the humans can vary.  Do you go for the quick kill or a long drawn-out illness?  Should you start your illness in a populated country or one of the more remote islands of the world?   I love that each game takes less than 30 minutes and I am always experimenting new ways to destroy the world.  – Jennifer

This free app with a reasonable subscription to the New York Times Crossword is so worth it if you’re into crosswords. The Saturday and Sunday crosswords are my favorite although they’re generally the hardest. It’s especially fun to do it with a loved one as you can debate on who has the correct answer to the clue!

Before a plane ride, just remember to hit download on all the crosswords that you want to be downloaded for the flight–and you should be entertained for hours.  (This is even easier to use on a tablet.)

Heads Up was the perfect game to play as a group or pair when time was moving slower than a sloth getting out of bed on a Sunday. The premise is simple: one person holds their phone to their forehead while the rest of the group try to describe or act out the word on the screen. When they guess correctly, the player tilts the phone to get a new word described. While there doesn’t always need to be a “winner”, of course the person with the most correct guesses does the best!

There’s plenty to enjoy about the game; it doesn’t require much prior knowledge, involves everyone in a group, you can play as little or as long as you like, and often any language differences can add an element of hilarity to the game.

As a game that doesn’t invite too much serious competitiveness or over-challenging tasks, it’s a great way to have a laugh with new and old friends. I have extremely fond memories of this game from my travels, I associate it with meeting new people from all sorts of cultures, making great memories, and learning a thing or two about my acting and describing skills! – Suzy

Leo’s Fortune

Guide a green fluffball with a mustache through progressively more difficult levels of cliffs, forests, gears, levers, deserts, and more. Leo tells you his sad story as you try and help him recover his gold. His expressive eyes and fluffiness are so well-animated, it makes flinging him up on a branch that much more rewarding.

The developers spent some money on the voiceover for this game, and it shows, I genuinely missed Leo when I finished it! You will want headphones for this one to get the full experience. Lovers of platformers will particularly enjoy this game. – Erin

Alto’s Adventure

I’ve played this one off and on for years, as it’s a classic side-scrolling jumping game and perfect for killing time in short bursts. Alto is a snowboarder, and you’re attempting to get as far as you can while avoiding rocks, reindeer, posts and other obstacles.

There’s the added fun of trying to incorporate flips and tricks, and board sliding bunting. You eventually unlock other skiers with different skills too. It’s beautifully animated, with a minimalistic aesthetic, as you’re seeing pretty much everything in silhouette. I find it fun for short periods, but I don’t have a particularly obsessive gaming personality. Some people play this for hours! -Erin

This short, but fun game is great for puzzle lovers who are looking for something different.  The game is about censorship in its various forms–and it requires that you use your sleuthing skills to figure out the story behind the actions.

Buy on Google Play Store / iTunes Store

I got sucked into this point-and-click puzzle game so quickly.  Despite the childish drawings that made me initially doubt if this was for adults, this story-based game with two different characters has an engaging plot line and interesting puzzles.

I found the story very beautiful and funny.  I didn’t want to stop playing this one, so consider buying this prior to a long international flight if you’re into puzzle games.

Buy for iPhone & Android

Solitaired stands out as an exceptional online platform for card game enthusiasts, offering a wide variety of solitaire games and related card games, all accessible directly from your web browser or through their Google Play app. The website features an intuitive user interface, making it easy for players to navigate through different games and find their preferred version of solitaire making it perfect for travel. Whether you’re on a long flight, train ride, or just waiting around, the app provides a fantastic way to pass the time and enjoy classic card and board game action.

Download for Android or visit their mobile-friendly desktop site

A Tinder-like decision-making game, Reigns: Her Majesty puts in the place of the Queen in the center of an imaginary royal court, with many decisions to make.

Some are hilarious, like how to put up with your annoying husband, and others are about how to rule your kingdom. You have to walk the line between antagonizing your subjects too much and inspiring too much love –– either extreme will get you killed!

The writing here is witty, funny, and barbed, poking fun at the ways women are caught between impossible choices. It won a BAFTA award for best game, and I’m not surprised. This one can be played in short bursts or you can sink into an hour-long binge, it’s that good. – Erin

Old Man’s Journey is a thoughtful puzzle game where an old man looks back on his life and his memories. It’s subtle, beautifully drawn, and with dynamics that I haven’t seen in many games before this.  I found the whole experience very calming, even when I was frustrated with not getting to the next level.

Break your pixellated character out of prison! This game has won several awards, and for good reason. Incorporating an old-school gaming aesthetic with a bit of crafting and the occasional round of whacking people over the head with makeshift weapons, this game is more complicated than it first appears.

There are several ways to break out of any given prison level –– from causing full-scale riots to digging tunnels to making disguises. It’s compelling enough to entertain you during a long boring train ride, but quick enough to make a short wait entertaining. -Erin

Get for iPhone or Android

Life Is Strange

Life is Strange is a choose-your-own adventure game that is closer to a movie that you get to direct yourself.  It’s emotionally gripping, cinematic, and with a poignant story.  It’s fairly long, so you’ll get a lot of use out of it for a low cost (think how much you’d pay for a movie).  My husband and I spent  days playing this game together.

Get for iPhone only at the moment.

Framed is an amazing concept of an app where you create and rearrange comic panels in an attempt to help your spy succeed.  The gameplay is a bit fast, but it’s a blast to play and you’ll lose track of time while playing Framed. 

The animation of Framed is hand drawn and the music just adds another piece.  I’d consider it the perfect travel game for a long wait at the airport–although you shouldn’t get too invested in it. 😉

Get for iPhone / Android

Lumosity is an app featuring a variety of games that reportedly train your brain to become more agile in different ways. The free version of the app serves up three games from a collection each day for your brain workout. You can play each game as often as you want during the day. I love most of the games I have played so far, but my favorite by far is Train of Thought.

Train of Thought i s Lumosity’s most popular brain game. It has reportedly been played over half-a-billion times since it was launched in 2013. I am not surprised at all…Train of Thought is both addictive and aggravating like the best games always are!

So, how does it work? The game features a screen with a bunch of train stations in different colors, with tracks connecting each station to a starting point. When you are ready, trains are released onto the track from the start point one by one, and the goal is to throw switches correctly and in time for each train to head into its home station. 

It sounds simple…but it gets progressively more difficult with each level. On a recent ten-hour flight to Europe, I spent every waking minute playing it (and I barely slept!), but I still could not crack my current level of 11.  – Dhara

Get for iPhone & Android

The objective of Hearts is to accumulate as few penalty points as possible throughout the game, with players striving to avoid taking tricks that contain any Hearts or the Queen of Spades. In this trick-taking game, strategic planning and careful consideration of each move are essential, as players attempt to navigate through the intricacies of each round to maintain a low score. For those on the move, the online version available at hearts.land offers a convenient and engaging way to enjoy this classic card game, making it a great travel companion for entertainment during journeys.

Visit their mobile-friendly desktop site

Wordescapes

Who doesn’t enjoy a word game?! I love Wordescapes because it keeps my mind working especially when I’m on a long flight or connection and the internet is not available. Or simply when I’m working and need a break.

The app works this way, you have box tables like the ones in Scrabble, and you will get a set of letters where you need to create words that fit on the number of boxes. If you create a word that is not needed in the table box, it will go as a bonus word.

Every level have 16 set of games, once you finish every level you get free coins. Coins can be used as a “hint” when you are stuck. This app is completely free and the words will be in English. – Mary  

Solitaire Bliss

Solitaire Bliss is a gaming platform offering a wide array of solitaire and related card games, catering to a diverse range of preferences with an easy to use interface and high-quality graphics. The site features a vast selection of game variations, customization options, tutorials, score tracking, and is optimized for mobile devices, making it a fantastic travel companion.

These features collectively ensure an engaging and convenient gaming experience, accessible anywhere, making Solitaire Bliss a top choice for solitaire enthusiasts on the go.

Download for Android & Iphone

This game is the millennial take on Breakout (Bueller?). This fun game with a sleek design is fun to better played offline as the ads are far less of a nuisance. That said, if you love to cheat, you can watch the ads for additional ways to break the lights. I’ve found it delightfully addictive and fun to play late at night due to the dark colors.

I need to add the honorable mention of Board Game Arena , which works only online. This free platform with premium options features 100+ favorite board games digitized. You need to be online and at the time of editing, the app is still in Beta mode (and is best on a tablet/laptop). Still, I absolutely loved playing King of Tokyo and Ticket to Ride against strangers on my last train ride.

Minesweeper

Minesweeper is a timeless puzzle game where players navigate a grid filled with hidden mines, using numerical clues to safely reveal empty spaces and flag the mines. The game requires logical thinking and a sharp eye, as one wrong click could trigger a mine and end the game. At Play Minesweeper , you can enjoy this classic game through a user-friendly interface, with varying levels of difficulty to suit different skill levels. Its quick and engaging gameplay makes Minesweeper an excellent choice for traveling, providing entertainment during long journeys or waits without needing a continuous internet connection.

What’s your favorite travel game on your phone?

About Karen Turner

New Yorker–born and raised. Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Lover of travel, adventure, nature, city, dresses, and cats.

Reader Interactions

July 11, 2018 at 11:06 am

I recently found a new game that is totally addictive! It’s called MixedUp Max and is a magic squares type of game – you can select different pictures and different shuffle levels and then slide rows and columns to re-arrange back to the original picture! There’s a free version but I’m not a fan of ads so went for the paid for version, and best of all, it can be played without internet access so I’ve been using it on my plane and train trips!

September 22, 2018 at 10:59 am

Really like Pictoword. I play this everytime I travel. There are ads that give out coins but if you’re offline it disables the ads. No free coins, but no ads either: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/pictoword-fun-new-word-games/id600674056?mt=8

June 14, 2023 at 12:18 am

Trivia 360 can be played without wifi

July 3, 2023 at 2:01 am

Hi! I just want you to know that I like your review. Even though most of then aee not free and some are unavailable in my play store (idk why), I just love it that you suggest more unconventional games Thank you !

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20 Best offline iPhone games to play in Airplane mode in 2024

While traveling, we don’t have a seamless network connection. But to kill your boredom during long journeys, I have found some best offline iPhone games to play in AirPlane mode.

The App Store has an impressive collection of iPhone games, from car races to action-packed quests that you can play without the internet. Stay with us on this article and explore the best offline iPhone games.

• Hill Climb Racing 2
• Candy Crush Saga
• Subway Surfers
• Into the Dead 2
• Asphalt 9: Legends
• Angry Birds 2
• SONIC DASH 2
• Jetpack Joyride 2
• Need for Speed No Limits
• Monument Valley 2
• Mortal Kombat
• Crossy Road
• Fruit Ninja
• Blocky Baseball
• Shadow Fight 2

1. Hill Climb Racing 2 – Editor’s Choice 

Designed in a 2D interface, Hill Climb Racing 2 is a game dedicated to car racing lovers. The game houses multiple exciting maps, vehicles, and characters to keep you hooked for hours.

You can enjoy the enchanting scenery of homes, trees, farms, and grazing animals while you climb up the enormous inclines, steep hills, logs, and rocky crevices. In addition, the sequel comes with smoother graphics, improved controls, and intuitive improvisations. 

The game gives you a stack of customizable vehicles for your expedition, like cars, trucks, bikes, and tanks. Further, you can tailor your character for a more personalized experience.  

The classic adventure mode is back on Hill Climb Racing 2 but in an upgraded version featuring new exciting maps. Further, to satiate your competitive self, you can enter the cups mode and race against other enthusiasts from across the globe or race in teams with your friends.  

• Multiple tracks to explore 
• Customize your character and vehicle 
• Intuitive graphics featuring animals, houses, etc.  
• Compete with others in cup modes 
• Issues with vehicle mechanics

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $0.99) 

Download   

2. Candy Crush Saga – Pair and burst sweet treats

Let’s agree that Candy Crush Saga is an excellent time killer. I have passed hours smashing candies during boring waiting hours or sleepless nights. If you haven’t tried it yet, you’re missing out. Regarding perks, Candy Crush Saga boasts a simple interface that is fun to play and explore.   

Once you hop inside, you see an overload of colorful candies ready to be smashed. Swap and pair candies in a group of three, and watch them burst. Though simple, the game gets challenging with every succeeding level. You will love the fascinating puzzles and sweet rewards you receive with every victory.   

The game adds new exciting levels regularly, keeping monotony away. You can even challenge your friends, join teams, and compete to be on the leaderboard. It has everything to become your perfect iPhone companion.   

• User-friendly interface 
• Multiple levels, rewards 
• Regular updates 
• Challenges accepted  
• Less competitive for advanced gamers  

3. Subway Surfers – Start your running expedition

Give an angry guard and his dog a run for their life with Subway Surfers. This endless runner game is a perfect combination of thrill and adventure. It challenges your presence of mind and assesses your reflexes. In short, Subway Surfers is a treat to enjoy a never-ending chase-and-run expedition. 

The game has a straightforward premise. You play as a graffiti artist running away from a grumpy security guard and his dog while battling obstacles, collecting coins, and getting a high score. These coins unlock in-game content that eventually makes your game smooth.

And did I mention that there would be trains to knock you down? Well, there are. Run between lanes, jump over bridges, and use your best strategies to reach the next level. As you move ahead, Subway Surfers simultaneously shuffles your character’s speed and challenges.

• Clean and minimalistic interface 
• Easy to understand and play  
• Packed with challenges  
• Might feel repetitive over time 

4. Into the dead 2  – Save yourself from zombies

Want to experience the apocalypse and fight deadly zombies? If yes, it’s time to play Into the Dead 2 on your iPhone. Launched as a sequel to Into the Dead, this zombie action game has everything to satiate your thrill quench.

Combating zombies is not easy. This is why the game has many weapons, firearms, explosives, etc. Take them and kill your blood-hungry enemies. As part of the gameplay, Into the Dead 2 is divided into seven action-filled story events, 60 unique levels, and hundreds of challenges.

In addition, there are plenty of locations, including oil fields, military joints, campsites, farms, burning forests, icy mountain tops, etc., to challenge your nemesis’. The game intensifies with scary zombies running for your life as you clear different levels.

Plus, there are unique event modes and daily challenges to test your skills. Keep fighting the zombies to expand your reward treasury. 

• Packed weaponry 
• Different locations to play 
• Daily and special event modes 
• Frequent glitches 
• Advanced players might feel it lacking

Download  

5. Sniper 3D – Best shooting game for iPhone  

Sniper 3D is one of the best shooting games for iPhone. When you choose to play, the game turns you into a professional sniper with jaw-dropping shooting skills. Smooth controls, intense action, and life-risking challenges make Sniper 3D a perfect pick for game lovers.   

The gameplay takes you on several unique missions set across multiple environments. Travel worldwide while fighting off high-profile targets in this intense iPhone game where you must kill to survive. Plus, the robust offline mode makes Sniper 3D a perfect game when the internet leaves your side.  

Moreover, the game houses a thrilling collection of 180+ weapons to shoot down your threats. Feel free to choose between sniper rifles, assault rifles, and more. Lastly, you can switch between PVE and PVP modes where the former involves challenge completion while the latter requires you to play against others in real-time. Fun! 

• Simple interface 
• Fluid controls  
• Unique locations to play on 
• Free of cost gaming 
• Frequent crashes 
• Plenty of ads 

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $2.99) 

6. Smash Hit – Break to win

Destruction! Yes, this single word forms the heart of this viral game. Let me make it clear – the game does not involve actual violence. All you need to do is throw metal balls at every glass object you encounter while moving toward higher stages.

As expected of its name, the better you are at smashing items, the more quickly you climb up the success ladder in the game. You get 50+ unique rooms within the game with eleven eye-catching graphic styles and real-like glass-breaking systems at every stage.

Smash Hit is a perfect stress-buster game where you can easily vent out your frustration while smashing virtual objects. For instance, different music, tunes, and audio effects will surprise you whenever you move a stage ahead or clear an obstacle.   

The game offers you a limited stock of metal balls to hit your targets when you start the game. However, you can expand your pile of balls by smashing pyramids and diamonds. The game also lets you have unlimited rapid-fire balls and the power to slow time temporarily.    

• Easy-to-use interface 
• Unique graphics at each stage 
• Music and audio support  
• No ads 
• Limited metal balls to clear a stage

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $1.99) 

7. Asphalt 9: Legends – Race with supercars

Asphalt 9: Legends is one of the best car racing games to play offline or in Airplane mode on iPhone. Swipe off your enemies in real-world locations as you race with the most coveted hypercars from globally acclaimed manufacturers.

You can collect over 150 high-speed machines and customize their mechanics per your interests. The interface allows you to upgrade the vehicle stats, choose the color of the brake calipers, add carbon parts, etc.

With Asphalt 9, you enjoy thrilling races across 185 challenging tracks, hailing from 13 real-life global locations like Osaka, Cairo, and others. The game offers a seamless UI with sharp manual controls for an almost real racing experience.

Further, you can play as a single player in 900+ solo events or indulge in 8-player live races. You can earn rewards by competing in races with your club members. Each victory will help you climb the Leaderboard and stack your reward pile. 

• Multiple tracks inspired by real-life locations 
• Smooth controls 
• Stunning collection of hypercars 
• Seldom crashes during loading

8. Angry Birds 2 – Fling the birds

Launched in 2015, Angry Birds 2 is the second edition of the world-acclaimed game series Angry Birds. You enjoy a battle between pouty birds and creepy pigs in this trendy offline game for iPhone. The cute aesthetics and intense gameplay give you the best of both worlds for free.   

The second edition of Angry Birds is similar to its predecessor, with a few upgrades. Now, you can shuffle the slingshot and pick your favorite bird to fling at the enemy pig. In addition, Angry Birds 2 allows you to play with your friends or compete and collaborate with other players.

You can level up your angry birds with feathers and boost their scoring power. Further, you may amp up your bird’s fashion game by gifting them different funny hats. Also, fill your pockets with coins simply by impressing the Mighty Eagle. It’s all fun and birdy in the Angry Birds’ land!

• Amazing UI 
• Multiple levels to explore  
• New features, like the ability to choose birds 
• Compete with friends and competitors 
• Lengthy waiting time for revival  

9. SONIC DASH 2: Sonic Boom – Run like a pro

SONIC DASH 2 is the power-packed sequel to SEGA’s superhit endless runner game, SONIC DASH. Featuring the cast of the TV series SONIC BOOM, the offline game has everything to keep you entertained for hours without the internet.

Satiate your gamer thirst by roleplaying as Sonic the Hedgehog, Tails, Knuckles, Amy, Sticks, and Shadow. The newly added Team Play mode lets you race with up to three characters and swap runners in the middle to fetch high scores.

Additionally, you can unlock unique superpowers like Sonic’s Dash Ring Magnet, Amy’s Ring Hammer, Knuckle’s Slam, etc. Explore the interesting, fast-paced tracks to unleash a never-ending running saga. Also, you can collect magical Sprites to succeed in the game swiftly.

Moving around while battling the obstacles is easy with the Swing and Tilt gameplay in this offline game for iPhone. You can venture into the amazing 3D worlds and earn special prizes by participating in events and everyday SEGA challenges.  

• Easy navigation 
• Challenges to keep you entertained 
• Special rewards keep you motivated 
• Very similar to the original game

Price: Free (In-app purchases start at $1.99)   

10. Jetpack Joyride 2 – Perfect running offline game

Anyone who loves runner games must be aware of Jetpack Joyride 2. This stunning Apple Arcade-exclusive sequel to Jetpack Joyride takes you on an adventurous ride as Barry Steakfries or his female counterpart, Betty Beefpies.

Sprint down the long hallway using a jetpack to fight the destructive inventions of the scientists in the laboratory. The game’s core concept is simple but packed with stunning mechanics that can sweep you off your feet.

While you play the game offline, you must find your way by dodging deadly electric traps and missiles fired at you by cruel scientists. In addition, in the sequel, you get to explore multiple levels with the momentum of challenges growing successively.

Apart from the jetpack, Jetpack Joyride 2 comes with several guns and special weapons to help you fight enemies. Further, you can collect happy goodies, purchase new items/gears, and upgrade your existing gears.    

• Intuitive features 
• In-game gears  
• Juicy goodies and currency as rewards 
• Only available as part of Apple Arcade

Price: Available with Apple Arcade 

11. Drop Flip – Save the ball

Need something simple to keep you entertained on your next flight? Well, then quickly download Drop Flip on your iPhone. Based on physics contraptions, the game expects its players to focus on only two objects – a ball and a bucket.

To succeed in this game, all you need to do is land the falling ball inside the bucket with the help of different-shaped objects. Let your imagination run wild as you move to higher levels in the game. FYI, there are 128 fun-filled levels in the portal.

Moreover, you can apply all the rules and exceptions of physics to land the ball inside the bucket finally. You can experiment however you want without burning your house or fighting with your younger sibling.   

All your moves align with the colorful visuals and ear-pleasing music effects. Additionally, you can flex about your achievements to your friends, displayed in the leaderboards. The game is easy to synchronize with other devices through iCloud.   

• Easy physics experimentation 
• Eye-pleasing visuals and cool sound effects 
• Easy synchronizations through iCloud 
• It can get monotonous after some time

12. Need for Speed No Limits – Best offline car racing game

Claim your dominance in car racing with Need for Speed. This Airplane mode-supported game is a perfect timekiller for anyone with a knack for speedy driving or cars. Fill your garage with an exciting, bold collection of world-class cars.

Feel free to customize your Ferrari from the Mod Shop and the Black Market. Take your rides and steer onto the streets to experience the superfast luxurious cars. The smooth game controls will help you jump around the walls and debris, face traffic, and explore the high-speed Nitro Zones.

Every corner unlocks your chance to participate in over 1000 races against the natives and cops. So, challenge speed and accelerate towards the finish line to win the title of the best car racer. The adrenaline rush fuelled in your nerves by this game will keep you on your toes; trust me.  

• Wide collection of branded cars 
• Customizations allowed 
• Challenging levels to interest you 
• Issues with the steering wheel controls 

13. Crashlands – Enjoy action-packed offline gaming

Crashlands is a perfect companion for action lovers. It shines as one of the top-rated Roleplaying games on the App Store that takes you on a thrilling quest.

Get in the role of the galactic trucker Flux Dabes, who gets stranded on an alien planet when his shipment gets derailed by the troublesome alien Hewgodooko. The game’s art design involves 500+ items that unlock as you unravel the secrets of the alien world.

In addition, you get access to infinite weaponry that updates itself without your guidance. Also, you can use the tools quickly for going on adventures, quests, or building new bases . Get ready to put your wits and life at stake while retrieving packages from the Woanope planet.   

Create your army of creatures who will fight for you. Just find an egg, incubate it, and watch them hatch at their convenience. Further, Crashlands supports cloud saving, making it a feasible game accessible in Airplane mode. You will never get bored now.   

• Action-packed interface 
• Plenty of features to enjoy 
• Pay-once-and-play format 
• Weaponry gets repetitive

Price: $6.99 

14. Monument Valley 2 – One for adventure gamers

Enter the 3D world of magic, illusions, and excitement with Ro and her child in Monument Valley 2. The larger-than-life graphics and seamless controls make it one of the most popular games to play on a plane without Wi-Fi.

Get lost in the land of impossibilities, mystical architecture, and pathways as you dig into the secrets of Sacred Geometry. If you played Monument Valley earlier, you would love its second edition, too.

The adorable bond between Ro and her child, as she makes them aware of the mysteries of their land, will surely impress you. The Mother-child duo will take you on an exhilarating ride of adventurous but risky geometric architecture.  

The gameplay features multiple levels, plenty of puzzles, and an interactive dynamic between its characters. Further, you have interactive soundscapes to accompany you as you hop along with Ro and her child in their mystical land. 

• 3D surroundings 
• Smooth game controls 
• Soothing soundscapes 
• No free version  
• Limited features 

Price: $3.99 

15. Mortal Kombat – Best in-game graphics for you

Tagged as one of the goriest games, Mortal Kombat is everything violence, bloodshed, and fights. Create a team of fiery Mortal Kombat fighters and prove your mettle in one of the deadliest fighting tournaments ever.

Be a doting team leader and guide your team towards a battleground where victory is reserved only for the finest ones. Intense graphics and artifacts amp up the fun for you. Feel free to collect over 130 Mortal Kombat characters, including famous ones like Scorpion, Johnny Cage, Cassie Cage, and others.

In addition, you can unlock character customizations by winning in the Feats of Strength battles. You can compete with other players in Faction Wars and earn weekly rewards. The best part of Mortal Kombat Mobile is the addition of ‘Fatalities.’

Go as hard as you want against your competitor without worrying about the rules. Moreover, you can earn some juicy rewards simply by sending your characters on epic Quests. Their exploration will fill your credits with special rewards quickly.  

• Character customization for a personalized experience 
• Easy rewards for every win 
• Weekly challenges 
• The challenges get boring after reaching the maximum level

16. Crossy Road – Save the chicken

Simple, fun, and engaging- this is what makes the Crossy Road one of the best iPhone games for Airplane mode. Seeking inspiration from the popular game Frogger, Cross Road revolves around your quench to save a chicken from getting crushed in a heavily packed street.  

The game offers smooth navigation and smoother controls at your fingertips. A simple tap takes you forward, whereas a swipe helps you switch between the sides. In addition, the chain of cars moving on the road at different speeds makes the game challenging.

Apart from vehicles, Crossy Road is packed with obstacles like rivers, trains, and trailers. You will love the beautiful design of Crossy Road as it gives the vibes of Minecraft. Everything- trees, animals, characters, mountains, and buildings- are made of blocks.

Further, the game has multiple themes, including streets, deserts, and the Pac-Man theme. Most characters are free, but there are also some characters you can purchase with the in-game coins.   

• Eye-catching design made of blocks 
• In-game currency for purchasing characters  
• Multiple themes 
• Too many ads 

17. Fruit Ninja – Slice fruits for fun 

Often referred to as one of the best offline games on iOS, Fruit Ninja enables you to step in the shoes of a ninja and enjoy fruit slicing in a never-seen-before way. You may switch between multiple modes like Classic, Arcade, and Zen to try different levels of challenges.   

Explore each game level to chop off the army of strawberries, peaches, watermelons, oranges, lemons, and many more. Further, with each success, you can win one of the 40+ blades and dojos or make the fruit-slicing Ninja hunt even more enjoyable.

These can range from snarky dragons, stars, butterflies, leaves, etc. You win points or get extra time each time you slice some fruit. However, if you need a break from slicing fruits, Fruit Ninja offers access to several minigames.

Alongside, you can test your excellence and win rewards by competing in everyday Challenges. You can also compete with your friends and climb up the leaderboard.   

• Cute Ninja adventures  
• 40+ blades to chop fruits 
• Lucrative rewards with each win 
• Less likely to impress advanced gamers 

18. Blocky Baseball – Baseball at your fingertips

Blocky Baseball lets you score that perfect home run while traveling. Just grab your bat, set your foot on the plate, and start playing your favorite baseball shots. Hit those fastballs and curveballs to build your score.

Oh, but beware of the paint bombs that can spoil your game. Indeed, the creators have put in their best efforts to give you the real-life feel of a baseball ground. With the retro-themed blocky graphics, Rocky Baseball ensures you are in the game vibes.

Moreover, the game allows you to choose between different baseball fields and weather conditions to pick the one that suits your mood. The game also offers collectible characters that make the game even more enjoyable.   

You can invite your friends and compete with them in online baseball. Also, Blocky Baseball has a Replay feature that lets you share your best moments with others. 

• Hosts multiple gaming fields  
• Retro-themed blocky graphics 
• Offers collectible characters 
• Buggy interface 

19. Shadow Fight 2 – Fight like a warrior

Gang up with your friends to fight the atrocities of the Underworld in this nail-biting game, Shadow Fight 2. This popular game takes you on a journey of epic battles with its perfect combination of RPG and traditional fighting.

Explore the thrill of combat sequences housed in stunning, real-like animation setups full of infinite weaponry, armor sets, and Martial Arts techniques. Kill your enemies, stab demon leaders, and earn the privilege of closing the Gate of Shadows.

The smooth controls and exclusive touchscreen-friendly fighting interface will give you the best action-packed experience. In addition, the game takes you on a thrilling expedition across six kingdoms of fearsome demons. 

Kick, jump, punch, and slash your enemies as they try to claim their victory against you. The intriguing storyline will give you just the right motivation to customize your fighter’s weapons, appearance, and magical powers.   

• Easy-to-play UI 
• RPG and traditional fighting included 
• Action-filled themes 
• It can be disturbing for some users 

10. Solitaire – Most popular card game on iPhone

No list of the best iPhone games can be created without mentioning Solitaire. It is one of the most popular card games globally, recognized for its simple yet addictive gameplay. Solitaire has been a people’s favorite card game on laptops and computers for years. 

All you need to do is tap or drag cards to arrange them in descending order with alternating colors. Further, you can pile up your tile earnings as you move to higher levels in the game.

The Leaderboard shows your score and performance against other players. Your name displayed on the Leaderboard will motivate you to keep playing. It’s addictive!

The best players with the highest scores can claim the trophies- gold, silver, and bronze. Moreover, you don’t need to be an advanced card player to perform well in Solitaire. With some well-strategized moves, you can quickly climb up the Leaderboard.   

• Simple to learn and play card game 
• Juicy trophy rewards  
• Leaderboard shows scores against competitors 
• It might get boring after some time 

Wrapping up …

The next time you find yourself on a day-long flight, you know you can quickly download these cool offline games on your iPhone and play them in Airplane mode. Simple interface, intuitive features, and thrill adorn all the games listed here.  

Do share which game you liked the most in the comments!

• Best free games for iPhone
• Best strategy games for iPhone and iPad
• Fun iPhone games to play with friends

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10 Unmissable Airplane Travel Games to Make Your Flight Fly By

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Long flights can be a real drag, especially when you’re stuck in your seat for hours on end. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back with a list of airplane travel games that will make the time fly by . Say goodbye to boredom and hello to entertainment!

TL;DR: Top Takeaways

• 91% of travelers bring entertainment on flights, with 62% choosing to play games on electronic devices.
• Sudoku is the most popular airplane travel game, with over 100 million downloads on smartphones and tablets.
• Airplane travel games keep your mind engaged and help pass the time during long flights.
• Explore a variety of games, from puzzles to multiplayer options, to stay entertained on your journey.
• Discover secret insider tips and personal experiences from travel journalist Flora Goodwin.

You should also check out: Airplane legroom guide

Why Airplane Travel Games are Essential for Long Flights

According to a survey by TripAdvisor, a whopping 91% of travelers bring some form of entertainment on a flight, with 62% choosing to play games on their electronic devices. As travel expert Samantha Brown puts it, “Airplane travel games are a great way to pass the time and keep your mind engaged during a long flight.” So, let’s dive into some of the best games you can play while soaring through the skies.

Puzzle Games for Solo Travelers

Puzzle games are perfect for keeping your mind occupied during a long flight. They challenge your problem-solving skills and are easily accessible on smartphones and tablets. Some popular options include:

• Sudoku : The most downloaded airplane travel game, with over 100 million downloads worldwide.
• Crossword puzzles : Classic and timeless, crossword puzzles are available in various difficulty levels to suit all skill sets.
• Word search : An excellent choice for word lovers, word search games come in countless themes and categories.
• Solitaire : One of the most popular classic games, solitaire is played by millions of people where you have to solve getting all cards in order from Ace to King by suit. The game requires patience and strategy, making it perfect for a flight.

Multiplayer Games for Group Fun

Traveling with friends or family? Multiplayer games can keep the whole group entertained. Check out these popular picks:

• Heads Up! : This hilarious guessing game will have everyone laughing and engaged.
• Uno : A classic card game that can be played using a physical deck or a mobile app.
• Trivia Crack : Test your knowledge in various categories with this addictive trivia game.

Flora Goodwin’s Secret Insider Tips and Personal Experiences

As an experienced travel journalist, Flora Goodwin has spent countless hours on airplanes and discovered some lesser-known gems to pass the time:

• AirConsole : This unique platform turns your smartphone into a game console and offers a variety of multiplayer games.
• Monument Valley : This beautifully designed puzzle game is both challenging and visually stunning, perfect for a relaxing flight.
• Audible Escape : Not in the mood for games? Flora recommends trying an audiobook or podcast from Audible Escape to immerse yourself in a captivating story or learn something new.

Challenging Your Assumptions with Uncommon Approaches

Ready to try something different? Here are some unconventional airplane travel games that will challenge your assumptions:

• Geocaching : Although typically an outdoor activity, Geocaching offers a unique “Air Travel” category with caches hidden in airports around the world. Perfect for layovers or before boarding your flight.
• FlightRadar24 : Turn your flight into an interactive experience by tracking your plane’s location, speed, and altitude in real-time with this fascinating app.
• Language learning games : Make the most of your flight by learning a new language through entertaining and educational games like Duolingo or Drops.

With this list of captivating airplane travel games, your long flight will feel like a breeze. From classic puzzles to multiplayer options and unconventional approaches, there’s something for everyone. So, buckle up and enjoy the ride!

What are some popular puzzle games for airplane travel?

Sudoku, crossword puzzles, and word search games are all popular choices for puzzle enthusiasts during flights.

What multiplayer games can I play with friends or family during a flight?

Heads Up!, Uno, and Trivia Crack are all great multiplayer games to play with a group while traveling.

What are some unconventional airplane travel games to try?

Consider trying Geocaching, FlightRadar24, or language learning games for a unique in-flight experience.

What’s Flora Goodwin’s favorite game for long flights?

Flora Goodwin loves Monument Valley for its combination of challenging puzzles and beautiful visuals, making it a perfect choice for long flights.

How can I make my flight more interactive and engaging?

Apps like FlightRadar24 allow you to track your plane’s location, speed, and altitude in real-time, turning your flight into an interactive experience.

• TripAdvisor. (n.d.). TripAdvisor Survey Reveals In-Flight Entertainment Habits of Travelers. https://www.tripadvisor.com
• Brown, Samantha. (n.d.). Samantha Brown’s Travel Tips. https://samantha-brown.com
• Statista. (n.d.). Most Popular Mobile Game Genres Worldwide. https://www.statista.com

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One response to “10 Unmissable Airplane Travel Games to Make Your Flight Fly By”

Deborah Green, I loved your insights and they resonate so much with my own experiences! Have you considered the role underlying systemics play in the issue at hand as well? Or, how the digital landscape might shift that dynamic? As a longtime environmental advocate, my love and respect towards nature taught me a vast amount about the balance of our ecosystem. Let’s also ensure we teach about manifolds and mathematical precision crucial to nature: how a subtle change enters into the system, resulting in significant impacts. Here’s to fostering thoughtful actions! Can’t wait to engage with your next post – will you discuss more on socio-environmental relationships? Cheers!

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The 8 Best Flight Simulators for Your iPhone

The iPhone may not support Microsoft Flight Simulator, but you can still install these great flight simulators from the App Store for free!

Microsoft Flight Simulator is by far the best flight simulation game right now. However, it is only playable on a Windows PC or Xbox. If you don't own either, then you're sadly missing out. Fortunately, the App Store offers a wide range of flight simulators that can provide a decent experience for aviation enthusiasts.

While most of these games will not compete with Microsoft's immersive experience, they provide an enjoyable experience of exploring the skies, improving your flying skills, and competing against other players online.

1. Airline Commander: Flight Game

This is as in-depth as it gets for flight simulator games on the iPhone. Airline Commander lets you build an aircraft fleet that features a variety of commercial jets. Dozens of taxiways open different routes to airports all over the world. You also get maps, satellites, radar, and other navigation features for every region or airport.

There are various missions and challenges to complete, all complimented by the immersive weather conditions with day and night cycles. The flight system caters to beginners, but you can fine-tune the controls if you're up for a challenging flight. And lastly, the game also allows you to connect a game controller to your iPhone .

Download: Airline Commander: Flight Simulator (Free, in-app purchases)

2. Infinite Flight Simulator

This is another game that provides a surprisingly comprehensive flight experience on your iPhone. It features an even more diverse fleet of planes, from commercial jets to military aircraft. There are multiple regions to explore with satellite imagery, topography, and precise maps for all runways and taxiways.

You can customize the day/night cycles and weather conditions, and the game features an easy-to-use flight planning system with proper navigational aid. Each aircraft handles differently, so you'll have to adapt accordingly. The only reason it's not our first choice is that some features, such as the multiplayer mode, are locked behind the paid version.

Download: Infinite Flight Simulator (Free, subscription available)

3. X-Plane Flight Simulator

The X-Plane series of games have always been a close competitor to Microsoft's Flight Simulator franchise. Surprisingly, the mobile version of X-Plane is quite realistic, and the flight experience is enjoyable and challenging. It starts with a few tutorials that go over the basics, such as takeoff, landing, traffic patterns, and cockpit controls.

You can also jump into the multiplayer mode and share the world with other pilots. The cockpits are fully interactive, and every button, gauge, display, and switch has a purpose. It also features combat missions and emergency scenarios. While it's a bit more niche because of the steep learning curve, it is one of the best mobile games to play offline .

Download: X-Plane Flight Simulator (Free, in-app purchases)

4. Turboprop Flight Simulator

As the name suggests, this one offers a different flavor of flight simulation. Instead of commercial jets, you can pilot different styles of modern propeller planes. This includes tactical cargo, coastguard, and special operation jets. It also features regional airliners modeled after the ATR 42 and ATR 72.

It features training missions that teach you the basics but are more in-depth than just a basic tutorial. You can complete various challenges between these missions, allowing you to hone your flying skills. Apart from that, the free-flight mode lets you explore the world without restrictions. That's what turns this game into a surprisingly enjoyable sandbox experience.

Download: Turboprop Flight Simulator (Free)

5. Flight Simulator Advanced

This might be the game for you if you have an older iPhone and don't care much about graphics. Sure, it's not one of the most beautiful mobile games out there, but it does earn a lot of points in terms of the fun factor. Furthermore, the free version includes a variety of planes, from the A320 to the B787 Dreamliner.

The physics and aerodynamics in the game are solid, and the ground controls, such as steering, brakes, and pushback, also feel satisfying. In terms of flight controls, the learning curve is not as steep as other games on this list. However, you can access many locations, such as Frankfurt, Athens, Gatwick, LaGuardia, and more.

Download: Flight Simulator Advanced (Free, in-app purchases)

6. Flight Simulator 2019

As the name suggests, this one has been around since 2019 but is frequently updated. The latest update was in September 2022, which added performance improvements, new planes, and various UI/UX improvements. As for the game itself, it offers a more free flying experience rather than the stricter simulation style of gameplay.

Fortunately, this worked out quite well for the developers. The beautiful open world filled with missions and access to different planes, like cargo and water planes, make this game stand out from the rest. While it may not be the most in-depth simulation experience, it is an enjoyable game through and through.

Download: Flight Simulator 2019 (Free, in-app purchases)

7. Flight Pilot Simulator 3D!

If you're looking for a more arcade-like experience, this is probably the best one you'll find on the App Store. It makes you feel more like Tom Cruise in Top Gun rather than Tom Hanks in Sully. The missions focus more on reflexes and maneuvering quickly, and the vast open map is not just fun to explore but also has many challenges to complete.

The game features emergency scenarios, rescue missions, difficult landings, races, and much more. All of those missions are enjoyable, challenging, and completely addicting. While it may not be the proper simulation game some folks are looking for, it is by far the most enjoyable game for the casual audience.

Download: Flight Simulator 3D! (Free, in-app purchases)

8. Extreme Landings

Rather than trying to be a jack of all trades, Extreme Landings focuses more on being a master of one. The game tests your piloting skills by putting you in the cockpit of an airline that's stuck in a critical flight condition. It's up to you to deal with the emergency and make sure the plane lands safely.

The game features 36 missions that are inspired by real-life incidents related to flight malfunctions. It also features hundreds of challenges, worldwide navigation, and replicas of dozens of airports. The entire experience is challenging and can sometimes get a bit nerve-racking. Sure, the learning curve is a bit steep, but it's enjoyable once you get the hang of it.

Download: Extreme Landings (Free, in-app purchases)

Conquer the Skies With These Flight Simulators for iPhone

We were surprised with the variety on display for flight simulators available on the App Store. Some prefer to focus more on the realistic aspect, while others provide a more arcade-like experience in an open-world setting. Each game is unique in its own right, making this selection incredibly diverse.

For those who are more into the simulation experience on land, you may want to look into driving simulators. Again, the App Store features a diverse list of games that cater to different play styles.

The 39 Best Apps for Airplane Mode to Elevate Your Air Travel Experience

• October 26, 2023
• Lauren Stuttaford

No Wi-Fi? No problem! You can still snooze, watch, listen, read, and play from take-off to touchdown with these airplane apps. We’ve got the best apps for airplane mode, carefully curated to elevate your air travel experience.

What’s Airplane Mode?

Airplane mode is a setting on your phone or device that turns off its wireless communication functions, like cellular data, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth. It’s often used during flights to ensure that electronic devices don’t interfere with the plane’s systems.

The Kinds of Apps You Can Use on Airplane Mode

Most apps offer some airplane mode functionality. Especially apps for reading, listening to downloaded music, watching pre-downloaded videos, gaming with offline modes, and productivity apps that don’t rely on real-time internet access. So whether you’re a frequent flyer or just planning your next adventure, these apps are your ticket to in-flight entertainment and productivity. From turning your phone into a portable cinema to enjoying your favourite books, music, and games without a hitch, these are the best apps for flying, and will make your flight time fly by.

Things to Do During a Long Flight

Long flights don’t have to be a bore. There are plenty of engaging activities to make the most of your time in the air, and we’ve got your back. Before we explore the best apps for airplane mode, here are some ideas to keep you entertained and productive during your journey:

• Read a book: Bring a good paperback or use your e-reader app to immerse yourself in a captivating story.
• Watch a movie: Download your favorite films or TV series to enjoy cinematic entertainment.
• Listen to music or podcasts: Create playlists or subscribe to podcasts for a personalized audio experience.
• Work or study: Use productivity apps to tackle tasks or catch up on study materials.
• Play games: Enjoy offline games that challenge your wits or provide casual entertainment.
• Plan your trip: Use travel apps to organize your itinerary and explore the destination you’re headed to.
• Take a snooze: Don’t underestimate the power of a nap or 12-hour siesta to recharge during a long journey.
• Chat with fellow passengers: Strike up a conversation with your seatmate and perhaps make a new friend.

And of course, we also have our carefully curated list of apps for plane rides, to ensure that your long flight is not only bearable but also enjoyable and productive. In this section we’ll break down the best airplane apps for:

• Watching Something
• Listening to Something
• Trip Planning

Let’s get started!

The 39 Best Apps for Airplane Mode

Now, it’s time to dive into the heart of the matter – the top apps that will make your in-flight experience more comfortable. We’ve scoured the app stores and handpicked the 39 best apps designed to shine in airplane mode.

Each app serves a unique purpose, catering to your specific in-flight needs. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, entertainment, or productivity, we’ve got you covered.

So, fasten your seatbelt, put your tray table up, and let’s explore the 39 best apps for long flights that will transform your device into your in-flight companion.

The Best Airplane Apps for Sleeping

When it’s time to catch some Zs in the air, these apps have your back. They’re your go-to choices for creating a peaceful atmosphere conducive to restful sleep during your flight. Trust us, when you wake up feeling refreshed, you’ll be grateful we included these in our list of best apps for airplane mode.

White Noise

The White Noise app is perfect for creating a soothing background sound that helps you relax, sleep, or focus by masking distracting noises with your favorite ambient sounds.

Price: Free, with in-app purchases.

Available: iOS and Android

• A library of over 50 ambient sounds perfect for drowning out cabin noise.
• Customizable mixes of sounds to create your ideal sleep environment.
• A built-in sleep timer for automatic shutoff.

Calm is your on-the-go oasis, offering guided meditation sessions and calming sleep stories to help you de-stress, relax, and find your inner peace, anytime, anywhere.

Price: Free, with a premium subscription option.

• A library of soothing sleep stories narrated by well-known voices.
• Guided meditation sessions for relaxation.
• A “Sleep Stories” feature that combines music, narration, and soundscapes to lull you to sleep.

Relax Melodies

Relax Melodies allows you to mix and match a symphony of soothing sounds to help you unwind, fall asleep, or create a peaceful atmosphere wherever you are.

• Vast collection of sounds, from rain to ocean waves, for building your perfect sleep soundtrack.
• Sound mixer for customizing and saving your favorite combinations.
• A smart alarm clock that gently wakes you up with your chosen sounds.

Sleep Cycle

The Sleep Cycle app is great for tracking your sleep patterns to wake you up at the perfect time, ensuring you rise refreshed and ready to conquer the day.

• Sleep tracking to monitor the quality of your rest.
• Smart wake-up functionality to gently rouse you during your lightest sleep phase.
• Sleep analysis and insights to help you improve your sleep patterns.

These best apps for airplane mode for sleeping will ensure you’ll wake up refreshed and ready to tackle your travel adventures. Whether you prefer soothing sounds, guided meditation, or tracking your sleep quality, there’s an app that suits your in-flight sleep needs perfectly.

The Best Airplane Apps for Watching Something

If you’re in the mood to binge-watch your favorite shows or enjoy a movie at 30,000 feet, these movie apps for airplane mode are your perfect companions for in-flight entertainment.

When it comes to apps you can use in airplane mode, Netflix one of our top picks!

The Netflix app will turn your flights into a red-carpet premiere, with all your favourite movies and TV shows available for streaming and offline viewing.

Price: Paid subscription required.

• A vast library of movies, TV series, and documentaries.
• Offline download feature to enjoy content without an internet connection.
• Smart recommendations based on your viewing preferences.

Amazon Prime Video

The Amazon Prime Video app is your backstage pass to a star-studded line-up of movies and exclusive TV series, with the bonus of offline downloads for your in-flight viewing pleasure. Did someone say, “best app for airplane”?

Price: Available with an Amazon Prime subscription.

• A wide selection of movies, TV shows, and Amazon Originals.
• Download option for offline viewing, ideal for air travel.
• X-Ray feature for in-depth information on the content you’re watching.

Not sure what things to download for a flight? The Disney+ app is the key to unlocking the magic of Disney, Marvel, Star Wars, and more, with offline downloads ensuring your favorite characters join you on every flight.

• A treasure trove of Disney, Pixar, Marvel, Star Wars, and National Geographic content.
• Download your favorite content for offline enjoyment during your flight.
• Kid-friendly profiles and parental controls.

Another great one on our list of watching apps you can use on airplane mode is Hulu.

The Hulu app is your all-access pass to streaming a wide range of TV shows, movies, and original content, with the bonus of offline downloads to enjoy your favorite shows.

• Streaming of popular TV shows, movies, and original content.
• Offline downloads for uninterrupted entertainment.
• Live TV streaming option with access to news, sports, and more.

YouTube Premium

The YouTube Premium app elevates your video experience with ad-free watching, offline downloads, and exclusive content, making it the ultimate companion for uninterrupted in-flight entertainment.

Price: Requires a subscription.

• Ad-free viewing experience.
• Download videos for offline playback.
• Background play, so you can listen while your device is locked.

With these best airplane apps, your in-flight viewing experience will be nothing short of amazing. Whether you’re into thrilling dramas, animated adventures, or heartwarming classics, you’ll have a world of entertainment at your fingertips during your air travel.

The Best Airplane Apps for Listening to Something

Wondering what apps can you listen to music on airplane mode? This section definitely has some good airplane mode apps for you.

If you’re in the mood for music we have the best music apps for airplane mode, as well as podcasts, and audiobooks during your flight. These best apps for airplane mode are your perfect companions for auditory entertainment. They offer a diverse range of audio content to keep you engaged while in airplane mode.

When it comes to music apps that play on airplane mode, Spotify is your portable jukebox, delivering millions of songs and playlists, even in airplane mode, so you can enjoy your favorite tunes on every journey.

Price: Free with ads or a premium subscription for an ad-free experience.

• A vast music library with millions of tracks available for offline listening.
• Curated playlists and personalized recommendations.
• Podcasts and original content.

Apple Music

Another popular one for music apps that work on airplane mode is the Apple Music app . This music app for airplane mode is another pass to an extensive music library, allowing you to listen to your favorite songs and explore new tracks, even when you’re soaring above the clouds.

Available: iOS and Android (Apple Music for Android)

• Access to a vast music library for offline listening.
• Curated playlists and radio stations.
• Integration with your existing iTunes library.

In terms of the best airplane apps for story lovers, Audible is perfect.

The Audible app brings the world of audiobooks to your device, making it easy to enjoy captivating narratives even when you’re in airplane mode.

• A vast selection of audiobooks, including bestsellers and classics.
• Download audiobooks to your device for offline listening.
• Sleep timer and narration speed adjustment.

Another incredible choice when it comes to music apps that work on airplane mode: Pandora. The Pandora app crafts personalized radio stations that play your favorite tunes, introduce you to new music, and keep you grooving, whether you’re online or in airplane mode.

Price: Free with ads or a premium subscription.

• Personalized internet radio stations.
• Offline listening with Pandora Plus or Premium subscriptions.
• Ad-free experience with premium plans.

Pocket Casts

Podcast lovers, this airplane mode app is for you. The Pocket Casts app organizes and delivers your favorite podcasts, even in airplane mode, so you can immerse yourself in stories, news, and entertainment on the go.

Price: Free with a paid premium option.

• Podcast player with a user-friendly interface.
• Download podcasts for offline enjoyment.
• Cross-device syncing and playback speed controls.

Tidal is a great option for music apps to listen to while on airplane mode. The Tidal app offers high-quality music streaming and offline listening, ensuring you can dive deep into the world of sound no matter where you are.

• High-fidelity audio quality for audiophiles.
• Offline downloads for on-the-go listening.
• Exclusive content and early releases.

Google Podcasts

The Google Podcasts app offers offline access to your favorite podcasts and a seamless listening experience wherever you are. It’s not only another great option for podcast listeners, but also one of the best free apps for airplane mode.

Price: Free.

• User-friendly interface for easy podcast discovery.
• Offline download for episodes.
• Integration with other Google services for easy access.

Whether you prefer music, audiobooks, or podcasts, these best airplane apps offer a wealth of listening options to keep you engaged and entertained in airplane mode. Enjoy your favorite audio content during your flight and make the most of your travel time.

The Best Airplane Apps for Reading

For bookworms and casual readers alike, these airplane mode apps are a gateway to a world of literature, all available in airplane mode.  When it comes to apps you can use on airplane mode, even if you’re not a book lover, you’ll want to give this section a go.

Does kindle app work in airplane mode? Yes. The Kindle app is a portable library, granting you access to countless books and stories for offline reading, making it your perfect in-flight companion for book lovers.

Price: Free, with the option to purchase e-books.

• Access to a vast e-book library, including bestsellers and classics.
• Download e-books for offline reading.
• Customizable fonts and background colors for comfortable reading.

The Goodreads app helps you discover, review, and keep track of your favorite books while offering personalized recommendations, even when you’re offline. As far as apps for airplane mode go, Goodreads is definitely useful for fellow bookworms on-the-go.

• A social platform for book lovers to discover, review, and rate books.
• Create and track reading challenges.
• Receive personalized book recommendations.

Looking for more best free apps for airplane mode great for reading? The Wattpad app is a portal to an endless world of stories, written by a diverse community of authors, available for offline reading, and always ready to whisk you away on literary adventures.

• A platform for reading and sharing user-generated stories.
• Offline mode for reading stories without an internet connection.
• Option to follow your favorite authors and receive story updates.

These apps provide an extensive selection of reading material, whether you prefer e-books, audiobooks, or community-driven stories. Now you can easily escape into captivating narratives during your flight, all in the comfort of airplane mode.

As far as, airplane apps go, the Pocket app allows you to save and read articles, web pages, and videos offline, making it your personal library for knowledge and entertainment on the go.

Price: Free, with a premium option.

• Save articles, web pages, and videos for offline reading and viewing.
• Organize content into categories for easy access.
• Discover and read your saved content during your flight.

The Best Airplane Apps for Gaming

Gaming enthusiasts don’t fret. Even in airplane mode, you can embark on thrilling adventures, solve puzzles, or engage in friendly competition with these best game apps for airplane mode.

Alto’s Odyssey

Not sure what apps to play on airplane mode? Alto’s Odyssey is a mesmerizing sandboarding adventure that lets you soar through breathtaking landscapes, master tricks, and find serenity in a world of endless wonder.

• Endless sandboarding action across beautifully crafted landscapes.
• Relaxing gameplay with stunning visuals.
• Offline mode for uninterrupted gaming.

Monument Valley

Monument Valley is one of the best app games for airplane mode. This visually stunning puzzle game that challenges your perception as you navigate through impossible architecture, unlocking a world of beauty and brain-teasing mysteries.

Price: Paid app.

• A visually mesmerizing puzzle game.
• Navigate through impossible architecture and optical illusions.
• Engaging storyline and challenging puzzles.

Subway Surfers

While not all best game apps for airplane mode will tickle your fancy, some are just a classic.

Subway Surfers is an endless runner game that takes you on a thrilling ride through vibrant cityscapes, where you dodge obstacles and collect power-ups in a fast-paced, graffiti-filled adventure.

• Endless running game with colorful and vibrant graphics.
• Evade obstacles and collect power-ups.
• Frequent updates with new in-game challenges.

Plague Inc.

Plague Inc. is a strategy game that puts you in control of a deadly pathogen, challenging you to infect the world and outsmart efforts to stop the outbreak, making it both thought-provoking and thrilling. Even if it’s not your definition of best app games for airplane mode, at least you’ll have a new game on your phone.

• A strategy game where you design and evolve a deadly pathogen.
• Infect the world while combating efforts to stop the outbreak.
• Realistic simulation and complex strategies.

Crossy Road

Crossy Road is another classic game and one of the best game apps for airplane mode. This fun and addictive endless hopper game that lets you guide a range of characters across busy roads, rivers, and more, in a colorful and retro-inspired adventure.

• Endless hopper game with retro-inspired graphics.
• Cross roads, rivers, and other obstacles.
• A wide variety of characters to unlock.

2048 is a deceptively simple yet highly addictive puzzle game, where you slide and combine tiles to reach the elusive ‘2048’ tile, testing your strategic thinking with each move. As far as apps to play on a plane go, this one’s worth the download.

Price: Free, with ads.

• A simple yet addictive puzzle game.
• Combine tiles to reach the coveted “2048” tile.
• Leaderboard for challenging friends and players worldwide.

Stardew Valley

Stardew Valley is a charming farming simulation game that lets you cultivate crops, raise animals, mine for resources, and build the farm of your dreams in a relaxing, open-ended world.

• A farming simulation game with a rich, open-ended world.
• Grow crops, raise animals, mine, fish, and more.
• Engaging storyline and charming characters.

These gaming apps offer a diverse range of experiences, from mind-bending puzzles to high-speed action, all accessible in airplane mode. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a die-hard enthusiast, you’re in for hours of entertainment during your flight.

The Best Airplane Apps for Trip Planning

When you’re jetting off to new destinations, these best apps for long flights make trip planning a breeze, even when you’re in airplane mode. Here are seven best apps for airplane mode to help you organize every aspect of your journey.

Google Maps

When it comes to a reliable GPS app that works in airplane mode – there’s one obvious choice. The Google Maps app help you find your way, discover new places, and access maps and directions even without an internet connection.

• Download maps for offline navigation.
• Find local businesses, restaurants, and attractions.
• Get real-time traffic updates and public transportation information.

TripAdvisor

Not sure what to download for a flight? Why not put the last few finishing touches on your travel itinerary? The TripAdvisor app offers traveler reviews, recommendations, and offline city guides to make your journey unforgettable, all from the palm of your hand.

• Read traveler reviews and ratings for accommodations, restaurants, and attractions.
• Download city guides for offline access.
• Plan itineraries and explore things to do.

You might not think of Airbnb initially when you think best apps for airplane mode, but the Airbnb app is your key to unlocking unique accommodations around the world, with offline booking details to make every trip feel like a home away from home.

• Browse and book unique accommodations worldwide.
• Communicate with hosts and receive booking details offline.
• Save your favorite listings for future reference.

The TripIt app creates master itineraries from your booking confirmations and offers offline access to your flight details and plans, so you’re always in control, even when offline. While it’s not as fun as the best game apps for airplane mode, this one might still come in handy.

Price: Free, with a paid Pro version.

• Organize travel itineraries in one place.
• Forward booking confirmations to create a master itinerary.
• Access your travel plans offline, including flight details and directions.

XE Currency Converter

The XE Currency Converter app is your go-to tool for quick and accurate currency conversions, available offline, ensuring you’re never caught off guard by exchange rates during your travels. Apps for airplane mode can also be used offline while you’re traveling – so keep this one handy during your trip.

• Accurate currency conversion for international trips.
• Access to live exchange rates offline.
• Historical currency charts for reference.

In terms of good apps for airplane mode, the Maps.me app is another handy one. Offering detailed maps and directions for your destination, even when you’re without an internet connection, making it a must-have for travelers.

• Detailed offline maps for navigating without an internet connection.
• Points of interest, hiking trails, and bicycle routes.
• Bookmark and share your favorite locations.

The PackPoint app is your smart packing assistant, creating customized packing lists based on your trip type and the weather forecast, ensuring you never forget an essential item when traveling.

• Create custom packing lists based on the type of trip and the weather.
• Offline access to your packing lists for reference.
• Share your lists with travel companions.

With these best apps for airplane mode trip planning, you can map out your journey, book accommodations, navigate foreign streets, and even pack like a pro, all while in airplane mode. Enjoy a seamless travel experience with these valuable trip planning companions.

The Best Airplane Apps for Working

For those who can’t afford to hit pause on productivity while in-flight, these airplane mode apps are your wingmen for getting work done, even in airplane mode. Here are some top apps that work on airplane mode to boost your productivity and stay on top of your tasks.

Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)

The Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) app is your mobile office on the go, allowing you to create, edit, and collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations, even when you’re offline, so work never stops.

Price: Free with limited features, paid Office 365 subscription for full functionality.

• Create, edit, and collaborate on documents, spreadsheets, and presentations offline.
• Sync changes when you’re back online.
• Easy access to cloud storage for file backup.

The Evernote app is your digital notebook and one of the best apps for plane rides – especially for creatives and those who need to stay productive. It’s perfect for jotting down notes, organizing ideas, and setting reminders, all accessible offline to keep your thoughts in one place, whether you’re on a plane or anywhere else.

• Take notes, organize ideas, and set reminders.
• Work offline and sync when you’re connected again.
• Clip web articles, images, and documents for reference.

When you think of the best apps for long flights, Trello might not be the first one to come to mind, but if you need to stay productive you might want to consider giving this one a try.

The Trello app helping you visually organize tasks, collaborate with teams, and keep track of projects, whether you’re online or offline, so you stay on top of your work.

• Visual project management with boards, lists, and cards.
• Offline access to boards for making and reviewing changes.
• Collaborate with team members on tasks and projects.

Google Drive

The Google Drive app offers secure storage and easy access to your documents and files, even without an internet connection, so your work is always at your fingertips. That qualifies it as one of the best apps for flying in our book.

Price: Free, with options for additional storage.

• Store and access files, documents, and presentations.
• Collaborate and edit documents offline.
• Sync changes when you’re connected again.

Forest: Stay Focused

The Forest: Stay Focused app is your productivity partner, helping you stay on track and minimize distractions by growing virtual trees during work sessions, making your time more focused and rewarding.

• A productivity app that encourages focus and minimizes distractions.
• Plant virtual trees during work sessions, which grow when you stay focused.
• A simple and engaging way to track and improve your productivity.

These best apps for airplane mode might not be your work essentials but they’re great for professionals who need to remain productive and organized during flights. Whether it’s drafting reports, managing projects, or keeping your ideas in one place, these best apps for airplane mode are your trusted allies in achieving your work and productivity goals.

How Air Doctor Can Help

Air Doctor  is a must-have apps for travelers. The app connects travelers to a global network of local, multi-lingual doctors, ensuring 24/7 access to quality, appropriate medical assistance from anywhere in the world.

Price:  Free to download.

Locations:  Active in 75 countries.

Available:  iOS and Android

• Global Medical Network:  Over 20,000 multi-lingual doctors and specialists.
• Visit Flexibility:  Choice of clinic, at-home (hotel), and video consultations.
• Language Support:  Access medical assistance and customer support in multiple languages.
• Prescription Services:  Get valid, local prescriptions and medications from qualified medical providers.
• 24/7 Support:  Our multi-lingual support team is here to guide you every step of the way (day or night).
• Most Common Medical Specialties:  Access GPs, pediatricians, dentists, ophthalmologists, dermatologists, gynecologists, and orthopedic specialists.
• Easy-to-Use App:  The app is user-friendly – easily browse doctors and schedule an appointment in just a few taps and get a confirmation in up to 45 minutes.
• Partnered With Leading Insurers:  We’re partnered with leading insurance providers around the globe to offer cashless (no out-of-pocket expenses) and claimless (no lengthy claims processes) customer experience.

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Jenny is the CEO and one of the Co-Founders at Air Doctor. She spent more than 20 years at Intel, most recently as general manager of its manufacturing facility in Israel and before that in various engineering and manufacturing roles in Silicon Valley. Air Doctor is her second startup having previously founded electric vehicle company ElectRoad.

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Home / Features / Playing away: the best Android, iPhone and iPad travel games for any journey

Playing away: the best Android, iPhone and iPad travel games for any journey

Going on your hols? Keep yourself occupied with these great games, whether you’re in a taxi, airport queue, plane, or hotel...

Holidays are great, apart from the boring bits. Tootling along a motorway to the airport. Standing in the slowest queue in the world while waiting to board. Hours on a plane where entertainment comes from the middle two-thirds of fairly recent movies, on screens the size of postage stamps.

But then — hurrah! — paradise. Until ALL OF THE RAIN arrives, consigning you to a hotel. Never fear, because amazing games will see you through all of these rough bits. Our selection includes modern hits and mobile classics, none of which require data — handy when hurtling through the air in a tin can at 40,000 feet.

In the taxi…

Shortish games to play while a determined driver weaves between traffic on the M25, while growling in a vaguely scary manner…

Power Hover

Oddrok’s gorgeous arcade game of short, choreographed levels and regular surprises finds a hoverboarding robot scything across minimal landscapes in a desolate yet gorgeous world.

The sun-kissed deserts and vibrant blue seas may even put you in mind of your final destination — although it’s unlikely laser meshes and huge spider mechanoids stomping about will. (If they do, we suggest writing a stern letter to your travel agent.)

Download Power Hover for Android

Download Power Hover for iOS

Super Stickman Golf 3

This side-on ball-thwacker is a far cry from sedate greens and whispered commentary. Here, tiny golfers belt balls around larger-than-life courses: giant trees; moon bases decidedly lacking in gravity; strange metal contraptions with lasers wheeling about the place.

The breezily speedy nine-hole courses are perfect for dipping in and out of on a journey to the airport — and beyond.

Download Super Stickman Golf 3 for Android

Download Super Stickman Golf 3 for iOS

Lara Croft: GO

Lara Croft: GO distils Tomb Raider’s essence into a visually stunning puzzler. It shouldn’t work, but it does, providing moments of isolation and tension that rival any of Croft’s other outings.

And the bite-sized and turn-based nature of the puzzles means you won’t mess up a delicate moment if you’re halfway through a tricky manoeuvre when turfed out on to the tarmac.

Download Lara Croft: GO for Android

Download Lara Croft: GO for iOS

The classic: Forget-Me-Not

A near-perfect arcade game, mashing up Pac-Man, Rogue, Wizard of Wor, and other classics. Eat flowers. Shoot monsters. Grab keys. Survive. Escape. Loads of modes exist to suit many game durations.

Download Forget-Me-Not for Android

Download Forget-Me-Not for iOS

Queuing for boarding…

Lightning-fast and straightforward efforts to keep you sane while seemingly every row has boarded apart from yours…

Pinball’s had a renaissance on mobile, but you don’t want to be juggling multiballs and flippers along with passports and baggage while in a queue. INKS, though, rethinks pinball as a succinct puzzler.

In each challenge you focus on hitting a few specific targets that explode paint all over the table’s ‘canvas’, your ball subsequently leaving trails as it moves. There’s satisfaction despite the brevity, not least when you get a star award for using the fewest possible shots.

Download INKS for iOS

A blobby yellow critter dodders back and forth in this platform game on fast-forward. You tap to jump and double-jump, aiming to climb each tall, narrow level, which is broken up into tiny sections.

Along the way, you grab fruit and avoid monsters, leaping Mario-style atop foes lacking spikes or angry faces. Skinflints must swap food to unlock restart checkpoints; but pay for the premium unlock and the going’s at least a touch easier.

Download Leap Day for Android

Download Leap Day for iOS

ALONE…

You likely won’t want to play a lengthy game in a queue, but ALONE… takes this idea to an extreme. You pilot a tiny ship zooming through deadly caverns, asteroid fields and comets.

The breakneck pace is exhilarating, and although the ship recharges post-scrape, you’re almost certain to blunder to an explosive end within seconds. Perfect for whiling away a minute or two, then, if you can deal with later fastening a seatbelt while buzzing with adrenaline.

Download ALONE… for Android

Download ALONE… for iOS

The classic: Threes!

The best puzzler on mobile, Threes! has you swipe cards about a tiny grid, carefully merging them to increase their face values. (Get the paid version — the freebie one requires video ads to refuel a game meter.)

Download Threes! for Android

Download Threes! for iOS

On the plane…

Lengthier but contained fare you can dip in and out of while those around you attempt to watch a brutally cropped Disney movie…

AirAttack 2

Maybe it’s us, but there’s something amusingly perverse about sitting on a plane, while your finger directs a virtual plane to scoot about.

We just hope your real-life plane’s journey is less eventful than those in AirAttack 2 , where pilots fend off all manner of nightmarish hardware in a very different WW2 from the one in history books. Here, the Allies have only a handful of rickety planes, whereas the evil guys have massive tanks the size of small villages.

Download AirAttack 2 for Android

Download AirAttack 2 for iOS

More or less Advance Wars on iOS, Warbits is all about duking it out on grid-based maps, lobbing projectiles at the opposition until one side emerges victorious.

Strategic thinking is key — there’s no point blundering about when the AI will merrily ambush you, ‘rewarding’ complacent players with a virtual punch in the face. But within a few hours, you’ll amass skills in the campaign mode to take to dozens of additional maps — and to online players once you’re somewhere with a web connection.

Download Warbits for iOS

King Rabbit

If Warbits is a bit brain-pounding and AirAttack too explody for you when flying through the air, King Rabbit might hit the spot.

It features a regal bunny rescuing his chums by way of turn-based puzzling. He hops. He pushes boxes. He avoids rabbit-eating spiders. It’s all very familiar, but the execution, neatly designed puzzles, and top-quality presentation make this a must-have travel game.

A word of warning: extra adventures are in-app purchases that you’ll need to do before boarding.

Download King Rabbit for iOS

The classic: Monument Valley

If for some reason you’ve never played Monument Valley , it’s a stunning journey through Escher-like environments you manipulate with a finger. If you have played it, play it again!

Download Monument Valley for Android

Download Monument Valley for iOS

For epic trips…

More involved offerings, to keep you going during rainy days or when you’ve decided your pants are full of too much sand…

There are many great adventure games on mobile, but most want to punch out your brains with a device wrapped around a brick — not what you need for a relaxing holiday.

Poco Eco lacks the challenge of many contemporaries, but boasts a wonderful soundtrack and visuals; these combine with exploratory puzzles to create a sedate chill-out vibe. There are echoes of Monument Valley , in the game’s lushness and also its brevity. But Poco Eco is very replayable for those who can’t resist taking its stages slowly rather than gorging on the entire game in a single sitting.

Download Poco Eco for Android

Download Poco Eco for iOS

Her Story plonks you in front of an old-school PC terminal to watch snippets of interviews, but it’s a lot more fun than it sounds. Entries are returned on the basis of search queries, which relate to the interviewed woman’s transcriptions.

The aim is to piece together precisely what’s going on. Each tantalising clue sparks ideas that will have you head off in all kinds of directions, so arm yourself with a pad and pen before venturing down this particular rabbit hole.

Download Her Story for Android

Download Her Story for iOS

Cally’s Caves 3

For something more action-oriented when lazing about, Cally’s Caves 3 fits the bill. Cally’s parents have been kidnapped by a nefarious evil scientist (for the third time), and so the pigtailed girl arms up, leaping about platforms and shooting her way to her folks.

With 120 levels, boss fights aplenty, and a smart weapons upgrade system (essentially, shoot things with a weapon to upgrade it), this is one of the smartest platform games on mobile — and unless you’re the kind of person who can complete Super Mario Bros. without losing a life, it should keep you playing for days.

Download Cally’s Caves for Android

Download Cally’s Caves for iOS

The classic: The Room

A series of tactile thoughtful puzzlers about boxes within boxes, The Room starts small but soon evolves into something creepy, mysterious and plain weird. Play all three games in order, preferably after sunset.

Download The Room for Android

Download The Room for iOS

Download The Room for iPad

Download The Room 2 for Android

Download The Room 2 for iOS

Download The Room 3 for Android

Download The Room 3 for iOS

I’m a regular contributor to Stuff magazine and Stuff.tv, covering apps, games, Apple kit, Android, Lego, retro gaming and other interesting oddities. I also pen opinion pieces when the editor lets me, getting all serious about accessibility and predicting when sentient AI smart cookware will take over the world, in a terrifying mix of Bake Off and Terminator.

Areas of expertise

Mobile apps and games, Macs, iOS and tvOS devices, Android, retro games, crowdfunding, design, how to fight off an enraged smart saucepan with a massive stick.

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Our favorite iPhone point-and-click adventures, room escape games, narrative tales, and gamebooks.

Night in the Woods

Why you can trust TechRadar We spend hours testing every product or service we review, so you can be sure you’re buying the best. Find out more about how we test.

($5.99/£4.99/AU$9.99)

Night in the Woods finds protagonist Mae Borowski returning home after quitting college. She tries to reconnect with friends and family – but things have changed. It isn’t just the people or the weather either – something strange is afoot in her town.

Your task is to accompany Mae during this period of her life, as she navigates challenges, works on relationships, and explores darkness at the center of the story. 

Although resembling a side-on point-and-clicker, Night in the Woods is quite linear in nature. Tests of brainpower and arcade skills are diversions as you work your way through the story. But the narrative here is compelling, as is the way in which Night in the Woods encourages you to take the time to explore – even if what you discover won’t always be joy.

($5.99/£5.99/AU$9.99)

Overboard! begins with a murder being committed. But the mystery isn’t who committed the crime – it was you, unceremoniously pushing your husband overboard during a transatlantic crossing. Instead, the mystery is how you’ll get away with it.

In trademark inkle fashion, the game plays out as a branching pathway adventure. You select where in the ship you’d like to go, interact with objects and people, and become the master of your own fate within the limitations of your circumstances.

The claustrophobic nature of Overboard! is your biggest enemy – there’s nowhere to hide, and too many others suspect what you did. Within limited time – and across multiple playthroughs – you must therefore figure out the actions that will not only allow you to escape, but also to make enough riches to set you up for a life of luxury in your new home.

Cards! – MonkeyBox 2

($2.99/£2.99/AU$4.49)

Cards! – MonkeyBox 2 is part of a mobile-optimized gaming series by Coding Monkeys that aims to present playful, experimental, handcrafted experiences. This time, you’re on an adventure, with actions and consequences all depicted by the eponymous cards.

As you flip through scenes, you’ll periodically be given a selection of cards to play. Decisions determine what happens next – often your abrupt death. The aim is to figure out a sequence to play that allows you to progress.

The game relies on trial and error, and scenes can be vague and obscure. Planning far ahead is impossible. This might frustrate seasoned adventurers – not least if they get caught in a death/restart loop – but taken on its own terms, this is a beautifully designed reimagining of adventure gaming tropes and ideal for iPhone.

(Free + $5.99/£5.99/AU$9.99)

Headland is best described as a Zelda-like action adventure played with a single digit. You explore a colorful realm, searching for gem shards that will restore a companion’s creativity. In tried and tested fashion, this means roaming about, finding bling, and hacking enemies to bits with your sword.

Intriguingly, imagination itself is used as one of the game’s currencies. Dead foes drop globs of it, which are subsequently used to build bridges and other contraptions. You might then surmise that your surroundings are a touch traditional for a game based on the concept of imagination, but there’s no doubting the heart, care, polish and sense of fun that underpins this friendly yet challenging adventure.

FAR: Lone Sails

($3.99/£3.99/AU$6.99)

FAR: Lone Sails finds the protagonist in a desolate world, tending to a colossal steampunk vessel that’s like a gigantic sailing ship on wheels. You feed its reactor fuel, punch a massive red switch, and are on your way.

This game is as much about the journey as anything else. Large sections are bereft of bespoke challenges, leaving you to admire the landscape and keep your ship running.

Periodically, events occur that require more varied input. Early on, you’ll acquire a set of sails. Later, your vehicle is damaged and needs repair. Even during those moments, FAR: Lone Sails is a quiet, contemplative game – but its atmosphere and experience are such that it’s not to be missed.

($3.99/£3.99/AU$5.99)

Reventure is a side-scrolling 2D platform adventure with a twist. Although you leap about, chance upon quests, and frequently get all violent to dispatch doddering enemies, your aim is to die.

In fact, your aim is to die in 100 different ways. Figuring out how, and collecting your various deaths, can be perplexing, challenging, and highly entertaining. Early on, you can usually meet your demise by unsportingly stabbing someone, but subsequent expiration is much trickier to reach.

The game, fortunately, plays with the concept to breaking point. When you die, you’re resurrected in often amusing ways, and sometimes death is the only way to unlock progress to a new section of the map. But this iPhone game takes itself seriously where it matters, in terms of tight controls and level design. Something of a miniature mobile classic, then.

Speed Dating for Ghosts

Speed Dating for Ghosts is an iPhone game all about specters who want to find love after life. You select a room, and blaze through quick chats with potential partners; assuming you don’t annoy anyone too much, you then choose who to go on a date with.

This might sound a bit pat, but this isn’t a horror-tinged dating sim. Instead, it’s closer in nature to Florence - a heartfelt story (or, in this case, set of stories) with little interaction, but plenty of soul.

If you hanker for agency throughout your games, the presentation here will feel limiting. But if you’ve got time to delve into a set of tales tinged with sadness but peppered with hope - and with a suitably surreal spooky twist - this one has more than a ghost of a chance of winning your heart.

The White Door

($2.99/£2.99/AU$4.99)

The White Door is part classic point-and-click adventure, part puzzle, and part emotionally charged storytelling. It begins with the protagonist in bed, within the stark, white confines of a mental health facility. He has no memory of how he got there.

On poking around, you soon find a schedule pinned to the wall. When completing tasks – brushing your teeth; eating – the hands of the clock move, and days pass. Gradually, memories return, presented as animated comic-like cutscenes; but something’s off at the heart of this claustrophobic adventure – a creeping unease that grows as you dig deeper, and end up faced with various roadblocks to completing your goals.

The tale itself is short, but it feels very different from any other iPhone game. A door worth opening, despite the horrors you might then discover.

Sky: Children of the Light 

(free + IAP)

Sky: Children of the Light is an open-world multiplayer adventure, set in a place of lush open fields, rain-filled forests, and ruins that mask terrifying creatures of the dark. Your aim is to bring light back to the world, and return trapped constellations to their rightful place in the heavens.

Initially, Sky is a rare kind of game where you revel in just existing. You can run around the fields, flap your cape to briefly take flight, and then skid down hillsides when you land. But there’s plenty of game here, whether you’re poking around caves to find secrets, or working with other players to unlock a puzzle.

The challenges aren’t especially tricky, although the game’s opaque nature adds a splash of mysticism – and sometimes frustration. Mostly, though, Sky is a unique, premium iPhone gaming experience to be savored.

($4.99/£4.99/AU$7.99)

Minit has all the trappings of an old-school RPG adventure. The sharp visuals look like they’ve beamed in from a ZX Spectrum or a Game Boy, and the tiled landscape peppered with buildings, forests and characters puts you in mind of an early Zelda.

The twist here is your adventures come to an end after precisely 60 seconds – although anything collected in your previous run stays with you for the next. You must use your time wisely, memorizing pathways and ensuring efficiency in your every step and action.

Minit’s setup ensures it’s more tightly constructed finite adventure than sprawling beast – a kind of RPG puzzle to unlock. However, the game’s bite-sized nature is not only innovative, but also makes it perfect for a few rounds on your iPhone during odd moments.

(free + $4.99/£4.99/AU$7.99)

Maginary exists in a gray area between novella and game. From the off, you get an inkling of what’s in store, on inputting your name and seeing it infused into the story. As you read on, it becomes clear interactions with your device affect what occurs within Maginary’s world.

There’s a great sense of atmosphere, from subtle sound effects to surprising animations that shake up the story in real-time – in narrative and visual terms. Events barrel along at some pace, too.

The story is resolutely linear, though – there’s no freedom to explore, unlike in, say, Device 6 . But this doesn’t matter when you’re glued to the screen, and the interactive components are so cleverly designed. Entertainingly, even the one-off IAP to unlock the last two-thirds of the book is baked deep into the storyline – how very meta!

Florence is really an interactive storybook, but there are game-like elements peppered throughout – and because it was created by the lead designer of Monument Valley, you know it’ll be full of heart.

It also features plenty of clever design elements. For example, you at one point create something as a child that later makes a reappearance in a box of mementos. After a crash, sliders are used to make the blurred vision of the protagonist coherent. And at one point you fashion speech balloons from puzzle pieces, which reduce in number as the people conversing with each other become more comfortable.

The downside is brevity – Florence is very short and lacks replay value. But it’s a heartwarming experience, and one that showcases the kind of innovation that occurs at the fringe of gaming.

Far From Noise

Far From Noise is as much an exercise in self-reflection as a game. It begins with a car balanced precariously on a cliff edge. With no means of escape, what remains is to make sense of it all – not easy when you start possibly hallucinating a conversation with a surprisingly philosophical deer.

Interaction comes by way of balloons, which you tap to confirm thoughts and actions. As you make decisions, the narrative branches, leading you to one of several endings. Oddly, we could have perhaps done with fewer choices, because many seemed almost inconsequential. Although perhaps that’s the point.

Despite the situation (car wobbling; imminent death), the pace is very restful and the experience is unique. We suspect Far From Noise will nonetheless prove divisive, but it’s great to see such artistic games on iPhone.

Gamebook-style text adventures have had something of a renaissance on mobile, and the adaptations of Steve Jackson's Sorcery! series are among the very best. The fourth entry, suitably titled Sorcery! 4 , again immerses you in a world of fantasy, with you attempting to ascend a mountain, infiltrate a fortress, and recover the Crown of Kings.

If you’ve played previous games in the series, you’ll find a familiar set-up akin to a single-player board game. You drag your character about, respond to scenarios, bash up monsters, and can (thankfully) flip back to save points should you mess up and get horribly killed.

But even for total newcomers, there’s a full standalone adventure here – one that perfectly marries and balances a book, interactive game, and touchscreen experience. (Note that should you fancy trying the rest of the series first, it’s available as a bargain-priced three-pack .)

The Room Three

The Room is a series about mysteries within mysteries. It begins with a box . Fiddling with dials and switches causes things to spring to life elsewhere, and you soon find boxes within the boxes, layers unraveling before you; it’s the videogame equivalent of Russian dolls meets carpentry, as breathed into life by a crazed inventor.

The Room’s curious narrative and fragments of horror coalesce in follow-up The Room Two , which expands the ‘boxes’ into more varied environments – a seance room; a pirate ship. Movement remains restricted and on rails, but you’re afforded a touch more freedom as you navigate your way through a strange clockwork world.

The Room Three is the most expansive of them all, featuring intricate, clever puzzles, as you attempt to free yourself from The Craftsman and his island of deranged traps and trials. Get all three games, and play them through in order, preferably in a dark room when rain’s pouring down outside for best effect.

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Best Iphone Games for Airplane Mode

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If you travel a lot, you know that there are many times to where you won’t have access to the internet or you have to pay an unreasonable amount of money for the quality of the WiFi. Whether it be on a long flight or in a country without WiFi, you can’t always guarantee that you will be able to access the internet when you want too. There are many great games available for the iPhone that can be played in airplane mode, which means that they can be enjoyed without an internet connection.

Some popular options include card games like solitaire and poker, word games like Scrabble and crosswords, and puzzle games like Sudoku and Minesweeper. Additionally, many of the popular mobile games that are available on the App Store, such as Angry Birds, Candy Crush, and Tetris, can also be played in airplane mode. The best game for you will depend on your personal interests and preferences, but there are plenty of options to choose from.

If you are looking for a way to entertain yourself without having to depend on the internet or using all of your data, there are some Iphone and Ipad games that you can download that don’t require Wifi.

These are some of the Best Iphone Games for airplane mode – games to play on a plane.

• Geometry Dash

For those that love math and are up for a good challenge, Geometry Dash is a must have game. Basically, the player has to navigate a cube through various levels that have a lot of obstacles and things to run into. There’s a lot of jumping involved and quick movements in this game. 

• Jetpack Joyride

If you’ve ever dreamed of flying through the air with a jetpack, this game is for you. After you put on your jetpack you will fly through the skies and will have to break into a laboratory to save the jetpacks from evil villains. Make sure you watch out for lasers, bubbles and bullets. This game is very easy to navigate and all you have to do is touch the screen when you want to ascend and release it when you are ready to descend.

• Subway Surfers

In this game, the main character is a graffiti artist that is running from a cop. He must dodge oncoming subways by jumping, flying using a jetpack or taking advantage of special high jumping boots. Along the way he can collect coins and keys. The ultimate goal is to outrun the cop and his dog that are chasing him.

• Plants VS. Zombies Free

Players in this game will have to plant plants in order to keep the zombies away. They will need to soil them even though the zombies are trying to invade their turf. Players will have 49 different plants that can zap these 26 different zombies. The key to winning this game is to think fast and not let your guard down.

This game can easily quell your boredom no matter where in the world you are. It combines arcade fun and action adventure as you are running to avoid being killed. The main character of this game has stolen a cursed idol and has to try to keep the Evil Demon Monkeys from catching him. He’ll have to slide, jump and make quick turns in order to try to escape. Along the way he can collect coins and can buy power ups.

• Brain It On! Physics Puzzles

From Oribtal Nine, this game offers challenges to solve unique puzzles by drawing shapes & objects that are affected by the in-game physics engine.  There are usually multiple solutions for the same problem which avoids the game from feeling repetitive.

Even an old favorite game like Jenga can be downloaded and played without Wifi. Players can build a tower using 3D simulation. They will then need to try to delicately remove each piece to try to keep the wooden tower from toppling over. This game can be fairly addicting.

• Minecraft: Pocket Edition

Minecraft, an open world aka sandbox game that allows you the gamer to roam throughout and build with different types of blocks… Whether you build a home or a castle for whichever challenge, you can do it anywhere within this 3D-generated world that’s Minecraft. The best part about Minecraft is that we no longer have to play from our PCs. Thanks to Minecraft: Pocket Edition, we can now play from our smartphone! And if you think it can’t get any better than that, we can play Minecraft without the need for an Internet connection. If you’re traveling by way of planes, trains, and or automobiles, you can do so without any worry in the world! Minecraft is obviously the more compact version as compared to PC, so don’t expect to have the various redstone aspects or limitless accommodations provided in the PC version.

• Kingdom Rush

One of my favorite games of all time!  It is a tower defense game that combines aspects of various genres for a great overall experience. You will want to play through more than once.  You can play in 3 different levels to increase the challenge.

• Kingdom Rush Vengeance

Kingdom rush is the best tower defense game. Orcs, goblins, demons, dark knights, zombies and more.

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The best iPhone games in 2023: 31 games you need to play right now

When you have the best iPhone , you pretty much have infinite possibilities for keepingbusy and entertained, no matter where you are. Sure, the iPhone may not be marketed as a gaming phone specifically, but it’s pretty powerful — especially with the A17 Pro in the latest iPhone 15 Pro . That new processor means the Apple mobile gaming experience is only getting better and better, with Apple’s new chip being able to play console-level games like Assassin’s Creed Mirage and the Resident Evil 4 remake .

While those games aren’t available yet, there’s no shortage of great games to play. But when the App Store has over a million apps, how are you supposed to find the best games to play? Don’t worry — we’re here to help! Since there are a ton of games out there — and not every game is a winner — it’s definitely hard to find games that are worth your time and energy. Whether you’re looking for a simple match 3, an MMORPG, a dungeon crawler, or even something to just relax with, here are the best iPhone games you can play right now.

Most, if not all, of the titles we are recommending will work on any iPhone that has  iOS 17 on it, which goes as far back to the iPhone XS . If you’re still on iOS 15 or 16, then you should also be fine with these titles. Make sure to also check out our list of the best iPhone apps . And if you’re an Android user, don’t miss our best Android games roundup.

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Call of Duty: Mobile

Assassin’s Creed and Resident Evil may only just be making their way to iOS, but Call of Duty: Mobile has been delivering a console-like experience for years now. If you want to get your shooting on, then here is a great place to start. You control the game with the on-screen buttons and joystick, and while it takes a little getting used to, it becomes natural fairly fast. Call of Duty: Mobile isn’t short of updates either, with new seasonal events and updates dropping very regularly, so you don’t need to worry about running out of content or getting bored easily. Support for the game goes all the way back to the first iPhone SE and iPhone 6S, so it’s available for most iOS users out there. It’s free to play, but it has microtransactions.

Clash of Clans

It’s one of the most popular classic games on iOS, so we’d be remiss if we didn’t include Clash of Clans on here. You’ve probably played it or something like it, but it’s always good to jump back in and see what’s new. For the uninitiated, Clash of Clans has you build your own cartoon village, collect resources, and gradually build it up over time. You can also join with other players to attack opposing clans and become involved in massive wars across the globe. It’s free-to-play, but you can pay for boosts and all the usual microtransactions.

Dumb Ways to Die 4

It’s huge on TikTok, and for good reason: Dumb Ways to Die 4 is a collection of fun minigames where your challenge is to stop your bean from dying. This is, unsurprisingly, the fourth major release in the Dumb Ways to Die canon, but you don’t need to worry that the developers are running out of ideas. There’s a big new collection of minigames to solve and beans to save, collect, and upgrade. You can even go online and challenge your friends and family to see who can survive for the longest. It’s free, but you can pay to remove ads and get extra in-game currency.

CarX Street

Racing games are one of the best showcases of a phone’s graphical abilities, but it’s not all about the good looks. CarX Street puts you in the shoes of a street racer in a dynamic open world. Take up races, beat your rivals, and become the best driver in the city. There’s an intricate car upgrade system, and you can tune your car for certain races, tune up the specs, and change the style and design too. It works best with the iPhone X or newer due to the memory demands.

My Singing Monsters

If we asked you, “What do monsters do?” you probably wouldn’t reply, “Sing, of course!” Regardless, that’s what your monsters in My Singing Monsters do. Collect and breed up to 250 monsters on your island, and hear your song change and grow over time. Add decorations to customize your island, and you can play with friends around the world and partake in worldwide events all year around. It’s free-to-play but does have microtransactions.

Stick Fight: Shadow Warrior

Live that kung fu film dream and fight off hordes of enemies with your martial arts skills in Stick Fight: Shadow Warrior . Endless waves of foes will spawn, and it’s up to you to survive for as long as you can. Take on boss samurais to unlock rewards, and take on more difficult levels. As you fight, you also unlock cool new cosmetics and items, so your stick fighting can look even cooler. A fun casual fighting game that’s ideal for bored fingers.

Marvel Snap

Marvel seems to be really enjoying releasing mobile games these days, as Marvel Snap is only the latest of a number we’ve had thrown at us recently. Still, it’s really good and well worth your attention. Essentially a card battling game, Marvel Snap is fast-paced, and battles rarely lost longer than a few minutes. Gameplay is simple: Each of your cards has a strength number, and your job is to place them into any one of three lanes facing your opponent. If your number is higher, you win! But watch out, more than a few cards have special powers that can swing lanes in an instant, so you need to make sure you’re playing the right cards at the right moments. It’s free to play, but you can pay to get access to in-game currency and new cards.

It’s a classic, and it’s back on our list. Among Us! is one of the best hidden killer, mafia-style games around, and it’s brilliantly suited to being played on mobile. Work together with four to 15 players to get your ship ready for launch — but there’s a twist! A number of players are secretly Imposters who want to murder everyone else on the team. Your job, if you’re not an Imposter, is to fix your ship while also figuring out who the Imposters are. Seeing them enter vents, doing things they shouldn’t, or just murdering people are clues you should be looking out for — but keep in mind you’ll need to convince everyone else you’re not lying …

Airport Simulator: First Class

Apparently, we’re a little addicted to plane games at the moment, but this time you’re not flying one, you’re giving them somewhere to land. Airport Simulator: First Class puts you in charge of an airport. Build it up, sign up airlines to your amazing new airport, and make sure everything is in place for all of your customers. There’s a lot to juggle here, but if you love management games then there’s a lot to love here. It’s free-to-play, but there are the usual in-game boosts for real money, so avoid this if you don’t like those.

Stumble Guys

Stumble Guys may seem a little familiar if you’re a fan of battle royale party games, but that doesn’t detract from how much fun it is. Stumble Guys is an online multiplayer party game where you go up against 31 other players in a bid to be the last person standing in a series of fun games. Knock your rivals off the stage and reach the end first to win. It’s a lot of fun, with lots of different levels to tackle. It’s especially fun if you get a bunch of friends together to play — and then knock them all out and take the win yourself.

Cell to Singularity: Evolution

The idle game genre is an interesting one and something that’s largely exclusive to the smartphone. Cell to Singularity: Evolution starts with the humble amino acid in a simulation, ruled over and overseen by yourself. Tap the screen to increase your resources, or just leave your phone alone for a while and let them build up by themselves. Use the points gained to upgrade those acids into DNA, single cells, multiple-celled organisms, and beyond. There’s a simple pleasure to watching the numbers increase, and eventually, you’ll be able to unlock the dinosaur and galaxy simulations as well. Restart each simulation to access upgrades and, well, keep making numbers bigger. If you don’t get it, you’ll be confused about why these games are so popular, but if you’re a fan, you’ll love this.

Hearthstone

It’s the biggest and (arguably) the best digital collectible card game on mobile, so if you love playing competitive card games, then Hearthstone is a must-download. The premise is simple — play minions and cast spells to control the gameboard, and eventually, punch your opponent in the face until they lose. But there’s a depth to this simple premise, and you can spend hours finely tweaking your decks to adapt to the latest meta. It’s free to play, and you can buy card packs using the in-game currency and earn powerful cards through the in-game rewards track. However, you’re going to be encouraged to spend money to get more cards quickly, so gird your wallet if you’re diving in head-first.

The Lord of the Rings: War

The Rings of Power has reignited our love for everything Tolkien, so why not play a game set in the same universe? The Lord of the Rings : War is set in Tolkien’s beloved fantasy creation and puts you in the shoes of a faction of Middle-earth. Fight against the other factions for the One Ring, recruit new commanders, and even forge your very own ring of power. A large amount of Middle-earth is available to adventure through as you build your team and create an enormous army. It’s free to play, but it does have microtransactions.

Games of Thrones: Conquest

Game of Thrones is back in the public eye with the release of House of the Dragon , and if you can’t get enough of everyone’s favorite quasi-medieval series, then you should try out Game of Thrones: Conquest. If you’ve played any city builders before, then the format will be familiar to you — gather resources, fortify your army, and create buildings. As you might expect, given the lore, you’re given a dragon to raise and protect, and you’ll be able to use it with your armies to expand your influence and create great alliances. You can also gather hero cards and assign them to your council to get bonuses.

Dragon Ball Z Dokkan Battle

Dragon Ball Z holds a special place in many people’s hearts, and there’s no shortage of games set in Akira Toriyama’s manga-turned-anime. Dokkan Battle is a slightly different twist on the franchise’s formula, and while the high-octane, chi-fueled battles remain, they’re through the medium of matching colored orbs. Tap the right orb to send your energy up to your enemy and hit them with super-strong special moves. It’s difficult to explain but easy to pick up and worth a quick download if you’re interested in the legendary series.

Red’s First Flight

Ignore the terrible name — this is Angry Birds . Yes, the original version, with no in-app purchases and nothing to distract from the sheer joy of destruction. Take apart the precarious fortresses of those greedy pigs with nothing but the noggins of your furious avian friends and, if needed, the Mighty Eagle as a backup. You’ve probably played this before and saw the original you loved disappear behind troves of microtransactions and “upgrades.” Pay your dollar, go back to the original, and just enjoy the simple fun of Angry Birds .

We’re big lovers of large beardy people in pointy helmets around here, and Northgard is just the game we’ve been waiting for. Northgard is a survival game, but instead of controlling a single, beleaguered explorer, you control a group of Vikings looking for new lands. Manage your scarce resources and Vikings carefully, as you’ll need to balance both in order to survive this harsh land of undead warriors and dire wolves. There’s a multiplayer mode and a single-player storyline, and you’ll need to master the different skills of the six clans in order to conquer both. While it’s on the expensive side for an iOS game, there’s no doubt that Northgard offers hours of fun for just $7.

Albion Online

MMORPGs are nothing new, but what about an MMORPG that can be played on a PC, Mac, Android, or iOS device? With the same account and the same characters? Add a completely player-driven economy, a class-less system where your class is dictated by your outfit, and an endgame that lets guilds compete for vast swathes of Albion in enormous open-world battles and you’ve got a game that is very interesting indeed. If nothing else, it’s worth experimenting with. Albion Online is free-to-play, but as you might have guessed, it has paid elements and a premium subscription for the truly hooked.

Sid Meier’s Civilization VI

A PC gaming staple, Sid Meier’s Civilization VI is now an exceptionally good iOS game as well. While it’s easier to enjoy on a larger screen, like on an iPad , it still works extremely well on an iPhone. The game puts you in charge of an emerging historical civilization, and you must make the big decisions that decide whether your people spread and flourish, or struggle and diminish. Start in the stone age, and develop your technology, taking your civilization through thousands of years, until you’re capable of putting people on Mars. It’s free for the first 60 turns but costs $10 to upgrade to the full game.

Zombie Gunship Survival

Surviving the zombie apocalypse is a genre we’ve encountered many times before, but we doubt you’ve ever faced it from the gunning position of an AC-130 gunship. Zombie Gunship Survival is the perfect antidote if you’re sick of slowly building up your resources and hitting zombies with sticks. Instead, jump straight into your gunship and blow them all to kingdom come. Build up your airbase to defend against zombie attacks, and personally lead your troops in tactical operations against the dead. Some reviews complain about microtransactions, but others mention it’s a fairly light touch compared to other games. Worth the download for something new.

Sim Companies

Reckon you could run a great business, if only you were given the chance? Give it a go in Sim Companies . Specialize your company in a number of different ways, and test your capitalist skills against other players as you battle to become the top dog. Your success will come down to how well you can watch the virtual economy and watch out for trends you can take advantage of. It’s free-to-play, but there are microtransactions.

Infinite Flight Simulator

The humble flight sim is one of PC gaming’s finest traditions, and it’s now arrived on your iOS (or iPadOS) device. There’s almost too much to do here to list, and pretty much everything you expect from a flight sim you’ll get here. Sure, it’s a bit overwhelming at first, but flying a plane isn’t easy, and neither is Infinite Flight Simulator . You can also fly in multiplayer or play as a flight controller, though you’ll need to pay for a Pro subscription for that at the cost of $10 a month. Still, flying a basic plane is free, and it offers everything you need to know whether this is your jam or not.

Diablo Immortal

The game infamously revealed with the words “do you guys not have phones?” has finally launched, and despite the outcry, it’s actually pretty good. Diablo Immortal is here, and if you’re a fan of the Diablo games or anything similar, then you’re sure to love it. The genius here is that this isn’t some cheap mobile imitation — this is a fully-fledged Diablo game in all its glory, and that makes a serious difference. Alright, it’s rammed to the gills with microtransactions, but if you want to sample the game everyone is talking about, then you’ll just have to hold your nose.

Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga

Star Wars is a huge franchise at the moment, thanks to Kenobi , so why not enjoy a great Star Wars game? Star Wars: TCS is a port of the 2007 Lego Star Wars game of the same name and has content from Star Wars I to Star Wars VI , so don’t expect anything from the sequel trilogy in this. But regardless of that, you get to play through the six mainline movies, starting in the Trade Federation negotiations and fighting your way through to the second Death Star above Endor. There are over 120 characters to play, and you’ll need to use other characters’ strengths to get all the secrets in every level. It’s free to start playing, with Episode I unlocked for free. Subsequent episodes will cost money, though you can buy the full game for $7.

Square Valley

Square Valley puts you in the shoes of the Spirit of Valley, whose purpose is to take a square of land and make it habitable for incoming villagers. You’ll need to place houses for them to live in, animals to farm, rivers for water, and trees for wood. The trick is that each portion of the land can only take certain tiles, so you’ll need to balance what you place where. It’s a fun and engaging concept, and one that should tickle puzzle lovers for hours. A bargain for just $2.

Medieval II: Total War

Older gamers will remember when games like Medieval II: Total War was new and technically demanding — and now, you can play them on your iPhone or iPad. It costs a princely sum of $15 to buy, but there’s a full PC game here, and one that’s been converted rather well. Play as one of 17 playable factions, and fight, scheme, and trade your way to building your empire. Like Rome: Total War , the battle gameplay takes a little getting used to, but once you’ve got the hang of it, it’s just as easy to use as on the PC.

PUBG Mobile

You might think of PUBG Mobile as being a buttoned-up, brown version of Fortnite ‘s colorful explosion, but that’s not the case. The fourth anniversary of PUBG Mobile ‘s brought with it a number of new features. There’s a vibrantly colorful theme, colorful bicycles, and an aerial battlefield mode that’s utterly bonkers and unlike anything else you’ve seen in a battle royale game. Other than that, you can still find the classic gameplay you love, along with 10-minute matches, and a massive range of aesthetic items to collect and wear.

ARK: Survival Evolved

What’s better than a survival game on your iPhone or iPad? A survival game on your iPhone or iPad with dinosaurs! ARK: Survival Evolved is now something of a classic of the survival genre, and it’s easy to see why it’s still around when so many other games have dropped off the radar. You’ll start the game by, well, surviving — but once you have that solid base in place, you can start to set your sights a little higher. Create a home all your own, and train, tame, and even ride over 80 different dinosaurs.

Fill the Fridge!

There are few games so easily described by their title but Fill the Fridge! is exactly what it sounds like. Fill your fridge with delicious goodies that are currently not in your fridge. Weirdly, dragging your finger along to place goods becomes quite compulsive and fun, and, if you’re anything like us, you’ll find yourself playing for far longer than you’d originally intended. It starts out simply, but levels soon become fiendishly difficult and require some quite precise button presses to accomplish.

Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Links

Sitting alongside Pokémon as the childhood game of choice for many people, Yu-Gi-Oh can now be enjoyed on your iPhone or iPad. Duel Links has a strong tutorial in order to teach you the rules, so don’t worry if you’ve never played before, or are a little rusty. There are microtransactions, but they’re not required to progress, and you can get a lot of free cards from playing the in-game events. A good choice if you’re curious about playing a collectible card game, are an existing Yu-Gi-Oh player, or simply want to indulge in some nostalgia.

Mario Kart Tour

Who doesn’t love Mario and his happy band of friends and foes? Mario Kart Tour is the mobile version of the madly popular and decade-spanning Mario Kart series. It’s a simple formula — choose a character and race against other characters, whether A.I.-controlled or player-controlled — and aim to take first place. Win races, collect stars, and unlock new characters, karts, and badges. It’s free to play but has optional paid elements.

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Mark Jansen is an avid follower of everything that beeps, bloops, or makes pretty lights. He has a degree in Ancient & Medieval History, which obviously makes him a shoo-in to write about technology for a living. He currently contributes to the Mobile section on Digital Trends, with a particular emphasis and expertise on exploring the weirder side of smartphones, from tiny rugged phones to massive gaming phones. You'll most often find him seeking out leaks and rumors on upcoming devices, and playing with a variety of new apps for both Android and iOS.

Christine Romero-Chan has been writing about technology, specifically Apple, for over a decade. She graduated from California State University Long Beach with a degree in Journalism and Mass Communications, and her byline has appeared on sites like iMore, MakeUseOf, AppAdvice, Lifehacker, MacLife, and more. While her speciality has been all things Apple, especially the iPhone, she loves technology in general. Before the iPhone, she enjoyed seeing the latest innovations in the mobile space, from BlackBerry to the Palm Pre. Though she's been using an iPhone for the past 14 years, she is open to dabbling with Android and other mobile platforms, which is why she's here at Digital Trends.

Christine's other interests include mechanical keyboards (the superior typing experience), mobile photography, lots of coffee, food, Star Wars, a lot of animated series, and gaming. She's also based in Southern California, so she takes advantage of this by being a Disneyland passholder. If she isn't writing, chances are high that you'll find her at Disneyland with her husband and daughter.

You can find Christine on  Mastodon .

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Top 15 best adventure games for iPhone and iPad (iOS)

Sitting in a cosy chair and playing the best iOS adventure games

What are Adventure games?

What are the best adventure games for iphone and ipad.

Boy, this was a hard list to make, so we hope that you really enjoy reading through it. So, click on the big button below to read on and find out our favourite adventure games for iPhone and iPad. If you think we've missed something then leave us a comment, because we do occasionally revisit our various lists to make sure that we've kept them completely up-to-date and true to the genre. Of course, if you like any of them, go to the App Store and download your favourite adventure game for iOS!

1 Genshin Impact

Everyone is playing Genshin Impact at the moment - which is a massive, beautiful RPG where you will be exploring around, trying to find answers from The Seven - gods of each element. The world is beautiful, very much inspired by Zelda: Breath of the Wild, and there is a lot to explore - climbing mountains, going across rivers, traveling through fields of moving grass. When you do encounter monsters, there are all sorts of different elements that you can use to give yourself the upper hand, if you have mastered them!

The stunning graphics beautifully intertwine with the immersive gameplay, which easily places it in the landing spot on our best adventure games for iOS list. If you're not sure what Genshin Impact is and how it plays, you should read our Genshin Impact review .

After you've decided to give it a shot, make sure to check our massive (and increasing!) collection of Genshin Impact articles. We've got everything you'll ever need, from individual character guides to codes and even an up-to-date tier list !

2 Krystopia: A Puzzle Journey

Krystopia: A Puzzle Journey is a puzzle-filled game where you are trying to solve and understand the secrets of the world of Krystopia. You play as Nova Dune, who wants to learn about the inhabitants of Krystopia. There are a lot of mysteries surrounding this planet, but most of them are behind different puzzles that you will need to discover and solve.

Krystopia is beautiful and well worth your attention. While you might get a lot from a free-to-play game like the aforementioned Genshin Impact, the gameplay in this puzzler is something that will stay with you for a long time.

Download Krystopia: A Puzzle Journey

3 Sky: Children of the Light

Sky: Children of the Light is another beautiful adventure game for iOS on this list! This game has a huge community feel, as you watch ghosts of other players travel around the world, interacting only through movements while they try to solve their own quests. Looking to return the fallen stars to their constellations, there is a lot of discovery in this world - as well as chances to interact with the others who are floating around the world.

This stunning creation and the captivating story that it tells make up the perfect game for both seasoned adventure lovers and those who are looking to change things up. It's, simply put, brilliant!

You should read our Sky: Children of the Light review , and when you do decide to start playing, you can dive deeper into our Children of the Light guide .

4 The Stillness of the Wind

The last person left in a village after everyone has moved towards the city, you can play as Talma, who lives a slow and gentle life. In solitary, she survives, tending to her farm and her lovely goats. You can care for these animals, develop a routine, make cheese, cook meals, grow what you need and attempt to trade. As time goes on though, your family from the city starts sending you strange messages… The Stillness of the Wind seems simple at first, but this adventure is much grander than meets the eye.

We'd tell you more, but that means ruining the surprise. All we're going to say is that it's worth playing, and even re-playing once you get to understand it - we also mentioned how much we loved it in our Stillness of the Wind review , so if you haven't had a chance to read it yet, make sure you don't miss it.

5 Away: Journey to the Unexpected

Away: Journey to the Unexpected is a love letter to Anime - where you play as whatever character you can convince to join your team. These different characters have their own way of fighting and exploring the land, and they do all come with quirks. The older man, for example, has broken glasses - which means your view is pretty cracked apart. The world has interesting creatures and a lot to explore!

This game will be best played on a bigger screen, making it one of the best adventure games for iPads even years after its release. It's an unexpectedly great choice, and you should read the Away: Journey of the Unexpected review if you need further convincing.

6 The Gardens Between

The Gardens Between is another iOS adventure game full of puzzle elements, where you explore the memories of two young friends before one of them moves away. Each level comes in the form of an island that you need to find your way through, ending with some sort of memory that had a lot to do with the island itself. You are able to move by going forward and backward in time - moving the way you’d walk through the world as you play.

It's a title like no other, and the actual narrative is unique from a multitude of perspectives. We simply cannot overlook just how incredibly well-made and enticing the entire game is. One of the must-play games belonging to the genre, just like we said in The Gardens Between review .

OXENFREE is a supernatural thriller full of adventure, where you play a teenager called Alex who has brought your stepbrother to an overnight island party, but things have gone awry. You must now deal with the ghostly events that are appearing, and the creatures you have summoned, and figure out what is going on with the island while making decisions for your friend’s future. It’s a spooky one, that’s for sure.

In this adventure, it'll all come down to the choices you make, much like in Life Is Strange. The outcome can be different based on each otherwise meaningless choice, and that only adds to the replay value of the game. You'll want to dive into it all over again to discover all the possibilities - you can do that by reading our OXENFREE review !

8 Machinarium

Machinarium is an awesome hit from the small studio Amanita Design. A touching story about how a small robot makes his way through a planet littered with debris and inhabited by bandits, hoping to find someone special to him with whom he spent the best days of his mechanical life.

The artwork of the Machinarium is cute, and the design is amazing. The locations are full of mechanical life, which creates a fantastic atmosphere. This game is an incredible story of a small robot in a quite weird world. If you are looking for an interesting adventure, you should give Machinarium a try!

9 Life is Strange

This title has a much-deserving spot on the list for a number of reasons. First would be the amazing narrative. There are so many reasons why this narrative is so incredibly well done, and one of them is the choice-based results that you will end up with. All of your actions will affect the final outcome, and in a game that affects the present through past choices, that's even more important. To give you a hand, we even have some Life is Strange tips .

If you are not familiar with the name, just stop what you're doing and get it right now. You want to play this for hours on end, without as much as a break. It's one of the best adventure games for iOS out there at the moment, and will probably remain that way for the foreseeable future.

10 OPUS: Rocket of Whispers

A game where an alluring narrative meets stunning graphics and adventure elements, OPUS: Rocket of Whispers is a much-deserving title on this list. We can simply say that it's exceptional and well done, but that wouldn't be enough. The wide exploration and countless objects to discover, make it all the more exciting.

We could just say that it's a one worth playing, so make sure you give it a try the first chance you get. You won't regret it. We've also said that in our OPUS: Rocket of Whispers review , but it doesn't even come close to how the actual gameplay is.

11 Kingdom: New Lands

Kingdom: New Lands is an adventure game with tower defense aspects, where you take on the role of a monarch, who needs to build their kingdom up from nothing. It’s a hard challenge - exploring new lands for resources, finding royal subjects, and keeping yourself protected from the monsters that come out at night. Being a ruler is a challenge, especially when it comes to exploring new worlds and trying to keep greed away.

Kingdom: New Lands is pretty unique when compared to other names on the list, but the adventure aspect of it only makes it something to behold. We'd recommend playing it on an iPad for the bigger screen - we also played it on an iOS device in our Kingdom: New Lands review , so you can check it out to learn how well it plays.

12 Dead Cells

Dead Cells was everywhere a few years back - an action platformer with adventure elements where you need to find your way through an ever-changing castle. As you play, you will need to learn and master a bunch of different weapons and skills, to fight your way through so many different enemies and bosses who seem to live there.

It’s a challenging game, but if you are up for the challenge, you’ll enjoy the variety that twists throughout the gameplay! It's not ideal if you want a casual, laid-back venture. This would be your go-to pick when seeking an adventurous iOS adventure game!

It is brilliant, and you can read about our experience playing it in our Dead Cells review . We've also put together some Dead Cells tips , so check those too when you start playing!

13 Ryan North's To Be Or Not To Be

Ryan North's To Be or Not To Be is a branching narrative adventure game where you are taking on the role of characters from Shakesphere’s various characters, but making decisions that can change their story. You can die right at the start of his plays or attempt to live on and explore different aspects of the world that you might not have thought about before.

Oh, and one more thing - you don’t need to be a huge fan of Shakespeare to play this game. You'll just need to prepare for a hearty adventure! Did you know we also have a To Be Or Not To Be review ? Don't forget to read that too!

14 Sunless Sea

You know, the opening line to the Sunless Sea really sells it to me: “If the giant crabs, sentient icebergs and swarms of bats don’t get you, madness and cannibalism certainly will.” The first time I read that I thought they were luring me in, the second time I read it as a warning of death to come. You’re looking to stay alive in the Sunless Sea - no matter what - and you will come up with a lot of moral choices and strange beings along the way.

Sunless Sea is easily one of the best adventure games for iOS that cleverly embraces the darker side of life, with all of its elements. Definitely a must-play for every fan of the genre - just read our Sunless Sea review if you're not convinced.

15 Broken Age

Broken Age is a fantastic adventure game created by Double Fine Productions. You will have to control two characters separately. The first one is a teenager named Shay, and the second is a girl named Vella. During the gameplay, you can switch between both characters at any time. It seems that Shay and Vella are not connected to each other, but the plot is full of events that affect both characters.

It has high-quality cartoon graphics and an interesting art style. Broken Age is an incredible story with an amazing atmosphere. If you are looking for an unusual adventure game, Broken Age will be one of the best options! Also, while you are here, make sure to check our list of the best soft launch mobile games for iPhone, iPad, or Android !

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Home » Gear » best travel games

Best Travel Games – Entertainment on the Go

Travel inherently means downtime. There’s waiting for transport to depart, the relocating bit, and a myriad of other periods of time when you can’t do much more than wait. How do you fill this time? You could impatiently look at your watch, stare into space, read a book – or enjoy your time by playing a travel game!

There are a whole host of travel games out there, and whatever your tastes you’re sure to find one that meets your needs! Whether you’re looking for the top travel size games for adults or maybe something for the kids, we’ve got it all covered.

Want to find out then? Simple – read on!

Quick Answer: The Best Travel Games

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• Best pick travel game – Bananagrams
• Best travel board game – Travel Monopoly
• Best travel card game – Exploding Kittens
• Best travel games for adults – Cards Against Humanity
• Best travel game for couples – The Date Game That’s Actually Fun
• Best travel games for flights – Boggle
• Best travel games for road trips – Battleship Grab & Go
• Best travel games for families – Dobble
• Best travel game for kids – Pass the Pigs
• Best travel game for pre-schoolers – Buckle Toy Bizzy
• Best travel game for 2 people – Connect 4 Grab & Go
• Best travel game for groups – Farkle

Bananagrams

• > Lightweight
• > Needs just 2 players

Travel Monopoly

• > Self-adhesive board
• > Up to six players

Exploding Kittens

• > Easy to understand rules
• > Small to pack

Cards Against Humanity

• > Strictly for adults
• > 4-20 players

The Date Game That’s Actually Fun

• > Includes all you need to play
• > Best played as a couple

• > All the parts kept in a carry case
• > Can be played for just 3 minutes

Battleship Grab & Go

• > No need to pass tokens between players
• > Travel friendly

• > Game for almost all ages
• > Metal carry tin

Pass the Pigs

• > Doesn’t require adult supervision
• > Simple to understand

Buckle Toy Bizzy

• > Specifically designed for pre-school children
• > Educational

Connect 4 Grab & Go

• > Easy to set up

• > Perfect for large groups
• > Games can be varied in length

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Bananagrams is a firm favorite for those in the know, is easy to set up and play anywhere, and adds little weight to your kid’s backpack . A word-based game, it consists of 144 Scrabble-like letter tiles, with some doled out to players and the rest left in a central ‘bunch’. The aim of the game is to use up all your tiles in creating interconnecting words – rather like a crossword grid. There are no turns to be taken, but each player working on their own grid as quickly as possible, making it a fast-paced and very addictive game. Requiring just two players, it’s also possible to play with anyone from reading age upwards.

• Lightweight
• Needs just 2 players
• From reading age upwards
• Tiles could get lost
• Can’t be played alone
• Not for pre-schoolers

Is Bananagrams for me?

If you’re looking for a travel game that’s going to keep you entertained without needing a large amount of baggage space, Bananagrams could be for you! Scrabble fans and lovers of word games will definitely enjoy games, which at a minimum of five minutes in length, can be played at almost any time!

Our team swear by Bananagrams for their trips as they find it to be super fun, engaging, educational and most importantly, it weighs hardly anything and takes up no room at all in their bags. They also love how simple the game is to play and pick up too.

Travel Monopoly plays in exactly the same way as standard Monopoly, and the world’s favorite board game needs very little introduction! The small board folds in half so that the entire game takes up not much more space than a paperback book, and doesn’t weigh much more either (just 300g in fact), while a ‘self-adhesive’ board ensure counters don’t fall about the place at the first elbow nudge or spot of turbulence on an aircraft. With enough miniature versions of the traditional player pieces to make this a six-player game (with a minimum of two), it’s ideal for families, while the average game time of 45 minutes makes it a great distraction for airport waits.

• Self-adhesive board
• Up to six players
• Playing time of around 45 minutes
• Minimum 2 players
• Small cards/pieces could get lost
• Age range of 8+

Is Travel Monopoly for me?

Long waits and long journeys don’t need to feel like purgatory with Travel Monopoly in hand. Its 45-minute average playing time will see the time pass all the quicker, while the self-adhesive board helps the counters stay in place however bumpy the journey might be!

Our team are split on whether Monopoly is a good idea on a trip or not! They love the mini set up which plays pretty much the same as the bigger version and packs down pretty light. Some of them just wonder if it might cause a mid-flight emergency landing if things kick off!

Adored by those who have played it, Exploding Kittens is as whimsical as its name might suggest. A rapid-fire card game, the aim is to avoid picking an exploding kitten from the stack of face-down cards, while action cards add to the peril by giving sneak peeks and mixing up the pack in various ways. No bigger than a pack of playing cards (out of the box), Exploding Kittens is perhaps one of the easiest games to take traveling. It’s suitable for 2-5 players of more or less any age, with each individual game lasting around 15 minutes.

• Quick to play
• Easy to understand rules
• Small to pack
• Family-friendly
• Not for single players
• Maximum 5 players
• Cards could get lost
• Games last 15 minutes

Is Exploding Kittens for me?

A quick action family-friendly card game if ever there was one, Exploding Kittens so wonderfully bizarre, kids will love it, while the easy-to-understand rules mean even grandma and granddad can get involved! Small and lightweight too, this is an easy travel game to slip into a pocket for those times you need a little entertainment.

Exploding Kittens is a big hit amongst the team and they love how fun and easy to play it is. The game is also super light and portable meaning it can fit into pretty much any backpack without adding any extra weight. They also like how the playing area for the game is really compact too meaning you could play it on train or plane trays.

Certainly not a travel game for the kiddos, Cards Against Humanity at its best is rude, offensive, and potentially libellous too. So how’s it work? It’s simple really. The dealer reads out an incomplete phrase, which each player tries to complete in turn using words found on cards they’ve been dealt in a hand. It’s the dealer who decides the winner of each round, meaning the winner can be the most outrageous, most poetical, or most polite. A game for up to 20 players, it soon develops a party atmosphere! It’s one of the best adult travel games for sure.

• Strictly for adults
• Simple rules
• 4-20 players
• Easy to pack
• Requires a minimum 4 players
• Not for the easily offended!
• Not for public areas either!
• Game time of around 45 minutes

Is Cards Against Humanity for me?

Definitely not if you’re under 18 or easily offended, but taking that into account, Cards Against Humanity is what could be defined as a right-rollicking travel game, made all the better by the fact you can get up to 20 people playing at the same time.

Our team loves Cards Against Humanity and rate it as one of their best travel games for adults. The game is perfect for getting out at the hostel and breaking the ice. The only drawback is that the game is a little heavier compared to some of the others on the list. But it’s probably the most fun!

The premise of The Date Game That’s Actually Fun is pretty simple – the 330 questions are intended to test how well you know your partner! Though we can see how this could well lead to an argument or two, it’s also a great way of getting to know your other half better and passing the dead time of travel.

The Date Game That’s Actually Fun comes with everything you need to play the game on the move, with 2 dice and 75 prompt cards, across six different categories so you can really get to know your other half.

• Get to know your partner better
• Includes all you need to play
• Best played as a couple
• Number of questions limits playability
• Good for couples getting to know each other
• Compact and lightweight
• Could lead to arguments!

Is The Date Game That’s Actually Fun for me?

Certainly a travel game given its pocket size and weight, The Date Game That’s Actually Fun is a fun way for a couple to pass the time, or for hen/bachelorette groups, in particular, to get the party started. Hopefully, you know your partner well enough that it doesn’t lead to angry recriminations!

Our team felt this was also one of their favourite travel games for adults and kids alike with the addition of the different categories questions. They felt it was perfect for a bit of fun on the road especially when there is only the two of you.

The travel version of this word game is just as easy to play on an aircraft as the original is to play at home. Give the box a quick shake to mix up and settle the letter-inscribed dice within, open up the box, and turn over the sand timer. Each player must then create as many words as they can from the revealed letters, akin to a word search. Obscure words are best, since (infuriatingly) any word spotted by more than one player doesn’t count! But what’s great about this game is that you can play it for as little or as much time as you like (each round lasts just two minutes or so), and can even play alone!

• All the parts kept in a carry case
• Can be played for just 3 minutes
• Can be played with one player
• Infinite number of players
• Dice shaking could irritate other passengers
• Carry case lid isn’t hinged
• No note paper included

Is Boggle for me?

If you enjoy word searches or other travel games such as Bananagrams, you’re going to enjoy Boggle too! Ideal for a flight because of its compact size and simple gameplay, it also has an almost infinite number of letter combinations, that will keep you busy for hours!

Our team feel this is their best game for travel if the size is one of your main concerns. They love how compact and light the game is with all the parts also being super hard-wearing. They also love that the game itself takes up hardly any room in use and uses the box as its playing area.

Battleship Grab & Go

What makes Battleship Grab & Go so good for road trips? Well, it one of the few travel games that don’t require either a communal aspect (a deck of cards or bag of letter tiles) or the need to pass tokens between players. For anyone who doesn’t already know, this two-player (or two-team) game links guesswork with skill to track down the coordinates of each ship in the other player’s navy. The two playing trays are designed in such a way that pegs are firmly placed and can’t get shaken out of place whatever road obstacles you might come across!

• No ‘communal aspect’
• No need to pass tokens between players
• Travel-friendly
• Easy to play
• For two players/teams
• For ages 7+
• Pegs a little fiddly

Is Battleship Grab & Go for me?

Road trips mean plenty of time in the confines of a vehicle where it’s difficult to reach a communal pile of cards or letters, and can be hard to pass tokens between players too! Battleship Grab & Go has no need for these game aspects, and is specifically designed for use on the road!

Battleship is an absolute classic and our team loves it! Many of them have fond memories of playing it as kids. The team liked that this edition was made from durable materials and included two self-enclosed playing boards that keep all the pieces organised.

A card-based travel game aimed at children but still very playable by adults, there’s little to have to carry with Dobble, making it a great option for families who already have more than enough baggage with them! Essentially a version of ‘snap’ built for the twenty-first century, five different games can be played with the 55 card Dobble pack. The most basic sees players reveal one card at a time, in an attempt to match images between cards – each one has 8 different images of various sizes to make it extra tricky! The player with the most cards at the end of the pack wins!

• Game for almost all ages
• 2-8 players
• Metal carry tin
• Not suitable for pre-schoolers
• Cannot be played alone
• Game time of 10 minutes
• Won’t help teach literacy

Is Dobble for me?

This fun, fast, and sometimes raucous travel game can be played by anyone in the family old enough to be able to recognize different images (with another version available for younger children too). Educational and enjoyable to play, Dobble is a marvellous way of having fun as a family!

Our team are big fans of Dobble, especially for games nights in the hostel. They love that it comes in a metal box that keeps the cards safe when it’s thrown in their packs. The only thing they did say is that this game can get pretty energetic and rowdy, so maybe not ideal for enclosed spaces!

If you’re after a game that the kids can play on their own without the supervision or input of a tired-out adult, reach for Pass the Pigs! Based on the traditional game of ‘pigs’ that uses the roll of a pair of dice to determine points, this version sees kids drop small model pigs (that they’ll love in any case) onto the playing board, which is made up of several squares which can take or give points. The trick is knowing when to stop or play on (all down to luck of course), which keeps the game fresh and risky time after time!

• Doesn’t require adult supervision
• Simple to understand
• Very small to pack
• 2-4 players
• For reading age kids
• Game time of 30 minutes
• Pigs could get lost

Is Pass the Pigs for me?

The lack of a skill requirement means Pass the Pigs is suitable for a child of just about any age (although the board does include some writing). It’s also one of those games where you can leave them to it for a few minutes without supervision. It’s also small to pack and weighs very little, making it a good choice for traveling families!

The team felt this was a super fun game, especially for kids. They like that the pieces are made from durable and hard-wearing material and their box is strong enough to cope with the rigours of travel. They did feel it could get a bit tedious for the adults after a while though.

Specifically designed to be attractive to pre-schoolers, the upper side of the Buckle Toy Bizzle is decorated with a bright and cheerful face, while the underside has tabs for numbers 1 to 5 which lift up to reveal a series of stitched animals. Stretching out from this soft central section are 6 colorful child-friendly buckles of different sorts to help develop a pre-schoolers motor, cognitive, and problem-solving skills without even realizing it. A zip pocket gives a further reason why the child would love to have this around, while its 6 x 6 inch size and fabric construction makes it very easy to travel with, however far you’re heading.

• Specifically designed for pre-school children
• Brightly colored
• Educational
• Small in size
• For 1-4 years of age
• For one player
• No alternate games to play
• Small danger of catching skin in clips

Is Buckle Toy Bizzy for me?

Good, educational travel toys for pre-schoolers are difficult to come by, and let’s face it, if you intend on traveling you definitely need something to keep these young minds occupied! Brightly colored, and with little extras such as the hidden animals, Bizzy could be your child’s favorite for months to come.

The team felt this toy was super well made, which is essential when it comes to something designed for toddlers! The game is small and light enough to fit easily inside a backpack whilst offering a surprising amount of different colours, numbers, textures and noises to keep the little ones distracted! They also love that you can attach it to a backpack or the back of a seat too.

Connect 4 Grab & Go

Even if the name of Connect 4 doesn’t ring a bell right away, we suspect you’ll soon recognize its bright blue plastic frame and red and yellow counters. Connect 4 Grab & Go is the same as the original game, but smaller in size and with handy attached trays in which to place the counters. If you don’t immediately remember how to play, you’re simply trying to drop the counters into the frame in such a way that the result is a line of four consecutive counters of the same color – a little like an expanded version of noughts and crosses.

• Smaller version of a favourite
• Simple to play
• Easy to set up
• For just two players
• Counters can get lost
• Little variation in the game
• Playing time of 10 minutes

Is Connect 4 Grab & Go for me?

This simple, near vintage, travel game is easy to set up and perhaps even easier to play. With an average playing time of 10 minutes, it can be brought out even during short waits, while you’ll be surprised how addictive a game it can become!

Our team felt this was one of the best travel games for 2 adults or kids. This classic game is easy to get the hang of and offers hours of fun! The travel edition is super small and being plastic it’s both light and hard-wearing.

Finding a travel game suitable for a larger group would be difficult if it wasn’t for Farkle. Best described as the dice game Yahtzee built into a larger game, it can be played by an almost limitless number of players due to the fact each person takes turns shaking the six dice. With only specific dice combinations giving a player points nothing is guaranteed, while everything can be lost if you hit the Farkle combination. The winner is simply the person who reaches the winning points margin first – and as this can be as large or as small as you want, games can fit into whatever time you have free!

• Perfect for large groups
• Made in the UK
• Games can be varied in length
• Dice can get lost
• For ages 8+
• No skill required
• Dice quite small

Is Farkle for me?

If you’re looking for a game that can absorb almost any number of players (simply use more than one score sheet for larger groups – or draw your own) and doesn’t require skill or any complicated rules (we’re looking at you, Monopoly) Farkle is probably the game for you!

The team rate this game highly for travelling with it being so small and light. Another bonus for solo travellers or couples is that it works well with one or two people which is pretty rare, even rarer is that equally, you can play it with a big group. The team also feel the replayability is much bigger than many other games on the list.

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Reading the instructions and you might think Codenames is the most complicated travel game ever invented, but get stuck in and you’ll soon realize it’s not as difficult as it at first sounds! The aim of the game is to uncover all of each team’s secret agents, hidden within a field of possibles that includes ordinary bystanders and a very deadly assassin. But really, this is a game of word association, with clues given by a spymaster to their team linked in some way to the agents they are looking for. With so many combinations possible, you can play this game almost endlessly, with different combinations of team members making for very different results!

• Simple at heart
• Close to a traditional board game (without the board)
• Can be played almost endlessly
• Better with 4+ players

Is Codenames for me?

If you’re looking for a travel game that involves a little more skill and thought than the simple chance of something like Farkle, go for Codenames! This competitive and fun travel game will have you second-guessing every word given by your spymaster in the attempt to identify your undercover agents.

Codenames is one of my personal favourite games, I love how frustrating and fun it is anticipating your partners answer or trying to find a tenuous link between the cards! The game consists of just cards so it’s easy to take out of the box as we have and throw it in a sandwich bag for your travels. It lays flat and weight almost nothing. However, the game does need more room than a plane tray usually affords.

The traditional stylings of the box might not look much, but bear with us, for Catan is a big hit with everyone that plays it! Credited with igniting the recent craze for board games, Catan requires skill, strategy, and a little bit of cooperation between players too. The ultimate aim is to reach ten victory points and to do this each player begins building their own settlement through farming, trading, and other choices. Along the way, each player needs to watch out for the robber, who stops development of the settlements he’s landed on!

• Almost infinite playing board
• Suitable for all the family
• Games last around an hour
• Not simply luck
• Requires space for the board
• Just 3-4 players
• Lots of small parts

Is Catan for me?

Want something more than a travel game of chance and luck? Catan meets this need, with its requirement for careful consideration and strategy. It also emphasizes the need for cooperation, which is great for children and has an almost infinite playing board thanks to its jigsaw-like setup.

Catan is a classic and it’s one of my favourite games. The full-sized edition, whilst a surefire hit in the hostels, might just be a little on the large and heavy side unless you’re travelling in a car or campervan. However, there are smaller versions available where two players can play too.

Sequence Travel Edition

Made for travel, Sequence Travel Edition combines the basic premise of a number of games including Connect4 and poker into one large board-based travel game. The board has cleverly been placed within the lid of the plastic carry case of this travel edition and pegs that slot into holes replace the traditional chips used so that players don’t lose their place. Even the cards used in a miniature pack for travel, while the game itself is simple enough that children will be readily able to play. So what’s it all about? Fundamentally, it’s about connecting up a sequence of 5 cards in various ways that will keep your mind busy over and over again!

• Special travel edition
• Can be played by children
• Pegs can be a little fiddly
• Two-player version

Is Sequence Travel Edition for me?

Those who have played the full-sized version of Sequence might be a little unimpressed by the Travel Edition, however, for a game that will keep children and adults entertained for half an hour or more, we still rate Sequence Travel Edition as a fine travel game!

Our team felt this was a pretty fun little game that impressed them with its clever design where it was played inside its own plastic container. It meant it was compact and light and keeping all the various parts together wasn’t an issue. Most importantly, it could also be played easily on a plane, train or bus tray table.

Qwirkle Travel

The colorful playing pieces of Qwirkle Travel play rather like dominoes on steroids. The aim is to place connecting tiles next to each other, but instead of tiles comprising numbers, they are of various shapes and colors. An orange square can be placed next to a red square, which can be followed by a red circle, for instance. And to make it slightly more complicated, each color can only appear in a row once! The winner of each round is the player that has put down the most tiles, in the most rows, so some strategy is needed too.

• Travel version of the popular game
• Good for children and adults to play together
• One of the heavier games on our list
• For just 2-4 players
• Lots of small pieces to lose

Is Qwirkle Travel for me?

Easy to understand, but requiring enough strategy to keep players entertained, Qwirkle Travel is family fun at its very best. Though it can be a rapid-fire game, the thought required also means a game can last 45 minutes – an ideal length of time for many travel experiences.

Our team loves that this is one of those simple yet complex games where you can really get stuck in and engaged in the game. It really passes the time well on long trips with the level of concentration needed! They also feel that the bag and pieces are pretty robust too and like that it can be played with 2 people.

Top Trumps Wonders of the World

If you don’t already know how Top Trumps works, where have you been? Nothing to do with the 45 th president of the United States (that we know of), the Top Trumps deck of cards is divided among the players, who try and beat the other players by besting them on one of the card’s selected categories. What makes the Wonders of the World version particularly relevant to travel is its world theme, with plenty of intriguing facts to keep everyone paying attention while the game goes on. And that game goes on right up until the time when one player holds all the cards!

• Games can last as little as 2 minutes
• Easy to travel with
• Great for kids
• Travel themed
• Limited number of cards
• Best with 4 players

Is Top Trumps Wonders of the World for me?

A particularly good choice if you’re looking to drill some useful facts about the world into your children without them realizing it (such as the height of Mount Everest), Top Trumps Wonders of the World is also easy to travel with, and argument free – since all the facts are written down! Perfect!

Top Trumps has been a hit with me and my partner since we first met each other as teenagers! We’ve collected heaps of different versions but of course, as avid travellers, this version is a firm favourite. The game is simple, filled with interesting facts and fun to play. The cards take up hardly any room and the plastic case keeps them in good condition on the road.

Unstable Unicorns

The Exploding Kittens for the millennial age, Unstable Unicorns is as barmy a card-based game as they come! How does a player go about winning? By building up a powerful unicorn army of course! And you can’t do this without a little bit (alright, a lot) of friendly betrayal of the other players, seeing to the destruction of their own unicorn armies. With wonderfully vibrant imagery and an unpredictability no other travel game can match, Unstable Unicorns definitely belongs to the ‘once tried never forgotten’ list of travel games!

• Great design
• Ridiculously unpredictable
• Up to 8 can play
• 30-45 minutes playing time
• For ages 14+
• Higher price point
• Requires table space

Is Unstable Unicorns for me?

A great way to spend some quality time with your teens, or just a group of friends, Unstable Unicorns is like no other card-based game you will ever have come across. Quirky, cute, and evilly vicious in equal turn, up to 8 can play, with games lasting right up to 45 minutes.

Our team absolutely loves this game from the hilarious illustrations to the cunning gameplay, it’s got it all! It’s a huge hit at the hostel and really gets everyone interacting and having fun from the off. They also like that there are various different versions and expansion packs too so the game has huge replayability.

Mille Bornes

With a strapline of ‘the classic racing game,’ you can know a little of what to expect from this card-based travel game. A Monopoly for cars, players need to fill up on petrol, avoid accidents, and block the progress of other players to reach the end of the 1000-mile journey. Ironically perhaps, this is actually an incredibly fast-paced game, so pay attention! It’s also very easy to learn the rules, so you’ll be up to speed (pardon the pun) and playing before you know it!

• Travel version of a classic travel game
• Easy to understand
• Cards can be lost
• High price point

Is Mille Bornes for me?

Looking for an alternative to Monopoly? Mille Bornes fills that niche, without the need for a board. The resulting card-based game is a classic, particularly in its birthplace of France. Nothing gets classic status without reason, so why not splash out and try Mille Bornes for yourself?

Our team love the unique premise of this game and felt it offered something pretty different compared to most card games out there. The retro metal packaging was also great for travellers because it was still pretty light but made sure all the pieces stayed together and undamaged whilst in their backpacks.

Another classic travel game is Uno. Developed in the early 1970s, it is as fresh today as when it was first invented, which says a lot about the simple elegance of this card game. Using a specially printed pack of 108 cards, the majority of which comprise a color and number, the basic aim is to be the first player to shed all their cards through picking up and putting down cards based on what’s face up in a central pile. It’s a little more complex than that, with skips and wild cards among other features, and the need to shout ‘Uno!’ not when you’ve won, but when you have a single card left in your hand!

• A classic game
• 2-10 players
• 45 minute game time

Is Uno for me?

Uno rapidly becomes addictive, which is exactly what you should be looking for in a travel game when you have a lot of dead time to fill up without getting bored! Lightweight and easy to pack, and suitable for everyone from the age of seven upwards, your career as an Uno champion could start today!

Uno! What can we say, it’s a classic and a game all of our team needed no introduction to! I think we’ve all got a traumatic Uno story, ending up with a stack of cards just a few rounds after forgetting to shout “Uno”! But no one can deny the fun of this simple but tactical game that packs down super small and light.

An award-winning family strategy game, OK Play is durable, waterproof (being plastic), and a good size for travel, although the small counters might be troublesome for some families to keep hold of. Once you’ve chosen your particular color of tiles – held neatly on their own stack until they are needed – it’s simply a matter of placing down one tile at a time until one of the players manages to sneak in a row of five counters in the horizonal, vertical, or diagonal. Recommended for children from the age of 8 upwards, four different color stacks of counters make it suitable for 2-4 players.

• Award-winning
• Designed for travel
• Counters could get lost
• Requires a playing table
• For only 2-4 players
• Slightly awkward shape for packing

Is OK Play for me?

This counter game is so easy to play you won’t bore children with a long list of rules and regulations, yet at the same time is flexible enough to allow continued development of the skills and strategies required to make it a success as a player. Its durability and waterproof nature also help to make it an all-around good family travel game!

This game was new to most of our testers but they really loved how simple, fast-paced and addictive it was. They also felt when it came to travel games, this one was probably the most perfectly designed. It was super compact, so light and really hard to break!

Now, you  could spend a fat chunk of $$$ on the WRONG present for someone. Wrong size hiking boots, wrong fit backpack, wrong shape sleeping bag… As any adventurer will tell you, gear is a personal choice.

So give the adventurer in your life the gift of convenience: buy them an REI Co-op gift card!  REI is The Broke Backpacker’s retailer of choice for ALL things outdoors, and an REI gift card is the perfect present you can buy from them. And then you won’t have to keep the receipt. 😉

What makes a game the best travel game for you, your family, and your friends? Here are some helpful hints and tips to guide you!

Packability

You’re probably already struggling to fit everything you want to take into your baggage, particularly if traveling as a family, so you don’t want to be carrying around a travel game that is either large in size, or overly heavy. Thankfully, these days the manufacturers have caught the hint, producing dedicated travel versions of many popular games, with Monopoly one of them.

Are you looking for a travel game that will entertain just a couple of people, have a group of adults enthralled, keep children busy during dead time, or maybe one that’s suitable for families? We’ve highlighted the age range each game is aimed at in our reviews, to make this really obvious for you!

Number of players

There’s no point getting a travel game that’s at its best with six players if there are only ever going to be two or you! Likewise, don’t get a game for two if you know the average number of players is going to be greater than this. Follow these simple rules together with our reviews, and you’ll find the best travel game for you!

There is no perfect or exact science when it comes to testing out travel gear, but when it comes to picking the best travel games, we’ve got plenty of experience between us!

Whenever we test a piece of gear, one of our team takes it out for a spin and puts it through its paces. When it came to travel games things were no different in our eyes, we just added in a few extra details.

So, we looked initially at how well-made the game is and whether it would stand up to the rigours of being thrown into a backpack every day. Then we accessed things like weight, size, packability as well as ease of set up and most importantly, gameplay!

Finally, we also take into account how much each item costs – when it came to picking out the best games for traveling, we also weighted up whether we felt each one was worth the price. We judged the more expensive items more harshly than the cheaper games as we expected to get more for our money.

Still have some questions about the best games for travel? No problem! We’ve listed and answered the most commonly asked questions below. Here’s what people usually want to know:

What are the best travel games for long car-rides?

Battleship Grab & Go is a great option for long car rides or road trips. The two playing trays are designed in such a way that pegs are firmly placed and can’t get shaken out of place whatever road obstacles you might come across!

What is the best board travel game?

Travel Monopoly might cause one or the other family war, but it’s the best board game on the market.

What are the best games for families or a group of friends?

There are many great group travel games, but Farkle and Dobble are the best ones. They’re perfect for all ages and all types of travelling.

What is the easiest travel game?

Connect 4 Grab & Go is simple and fast to learn, however, it requires one or the other brain cells.

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Forget hours of boring waiting at train stations , airports, and on road trips with our selection of the best travel games! Whether it’s a classic like Uno or a new kid on the block such as Unstable Unicorns, or something for adults or kids (or both), we’ve got you covered with our review! Hopefully, you’ve found some good travel games for your next trip.

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Thanks for this kind of blog about travel. I wonder if you tried to go on baguio cafes in the philippines?

Just an FYI…. Bananagrams can be played with one person. Bananagram solitaire is extremely popular and is a great way for school-age children to build their vocabulary.

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The Most Popular iPhone Games to Play Right Now

Top free and paid games on your ios devices right now..

When you have the latest and best iPhone , then that means you can play just about any mobile game with ease—thanks to the smartphone’s sheer power and buttery smoothness. The iPhone 15 Pro even supports console and PC games , so soon you can play games like Assassin's Creed Mirage, Resident Evil 4 Remake, and so much more from the palm of your hand. But even if your iPhone is a few years old, you still have a wealth of great games to choose from for gaming on the go.

And while there are millions of them on the Apple App Store and Apple Arcade , there’s a very useful list of the most popular mobile games — divided by the most popular free games and paid games — available for the iPhone (most of these titles are available as iPad games as well).

• Most Popular Free iPhone Games

Most Popular Paid iPhone Games

From simple match-three games to powerful MMORPGs, we rounded up the top 10 from the top free and top paid games (20 games in total) to help you navigate the App Store easily. There are a lot of winners, below:

TL;DR – These are the Most Popular Apple iPhone games

Free iphone games.

• My Coloring Book (Free)
• Monopoly Go! (Free)
• Royal Match (Free)
• Block Blast (Free)
• My Perfect Hotel (Free)
• Whiteout Survival (Free)
• Fruit Merge: Watermelon Puzzle (Free)
• Roblox (Free)
• Hero Clash (Free)
• Call of Duty: Mobile (Free)

Paid iPhone Games

• Five Nights at Freddy's ($3)
• Minecraft ($7)
• Five Nights at Freddy's 2 ($3)
• Five Nights at Freddy's 4 ($3)
• Geometry Dash ($2)
• Heads Up! ($2)
• Ultimate Custom Night ($3)
• Bloons TD 6 ($7)
• Five Nights at Freddy's 3 ($3)
• Monopoly - Classic Board Game ($5)

Most Popular Free Games

1. My Coloring Book

For those who enjoy coloring, My Coloring Book is a great addition to your app library. Featuring a variety of colors and over 350 hand-drawn pictures to fill in, it's sure to keep you busy. It works on both iPhone and iPad and you can easily save your creations right to your Photos library to share.

2. Monopoly Go!

Everyone’s favorite board game Monopoly is available to play on the Apple iPhone with Monopoly Go! . It features the same gameplay as the original, but faster, wilder, and more ruthless. Play with your friends and family from around the world, while the object of the game is to buy property, build houses and hotels, collect Monopoly Money, bankrupt everyone, and destroy their properties.

3. Royal Match

Royal Match is a match-three puzzle game where you help King Robert restore his kingdom back to glory. The more you match, the more levels you complete, and the more you restore the kingdom. Meanwhile, you can unlock bonus levels and rooms to collect coins to stay alive.

4. Block Blast

Puzzle games are always great to have in your collection of mobile games, and Block Blast is a must. All it requires of you is to drag and drop blocks onto the board to try and clear out a row or column once it's filled. You can build up additional points by performing combos as well.

5. My Perfect Hotel

Have you ever dreamed of owning and operating your own hotel? My Perfect Hotel will help you bring that dream to life. This is a time-management game where you'll work as a hotel manager to build your hotel from the ground up and maintain a successful business.

6. Whiteout Survival

Whiteout Survival is a survival strategy game that takes place in a snowy apocalypse. You play as a leader of one of the last citys standing who's tasked with assigning jobs to survivors (hunting, cooking, and more), finding resources, and fighting to survive against enemies in the icy wilds.

7. Fruit Merge: Watermelon Puzzle

Fruit Merge: Watermelon Puzzle is an adorable puzzle game that tasks you with merging various fruits together - such as melons, pineapples, apples, and more - within a box. However, they can't cross the top line, so you'll need to find the best ways to squeeze them all in together, with the ultimate goal of fitting in the watermelon.

Immerse yourself in an entirely virtual experience in Roblox , a cross platform game that’s available on Apple iOS, Android, Windows, and Xbox. The app is part-gaming and part-social media where you can play games, create your own game, or just chat with friends from all around the world with thousands of experiences—think of it as Club Penguin, but for Gen Z.

9. Hero Clash

Hero Clash is a game fit for adventurers, with plenty of puzzles and levels to keep you busy. Per its app description page, "Come and save the continent torn apart by the evil void and explore a world full of danger and mystery."

10. Call of Duty: Mobile

Featuring high-quality graphics on your phone with customizable controls, voice and text chat, and so much more, Call of Duty: Mobile is an excellent addition to your mobile gaming collection. It's even celebrating Call of Duty: Mobile’s Season 10: 4th anniversary at the moment, which offers a new Ground War: Breach MP mode.

1. Five Nights at Freddy's ($3)

Given the recent release of the movie and its incredible success , it's no surprise that Five Nights at Freddy's has shot to the #1 spot of the Top Paid Games list. In this game, you'll take on the role of a security guard working the night shift at Freddy Fazbear's Pizza. Just keep an eye out for the animatronics through the security cameras... and try to survive five nights. You can see our guide to playing the FNAF games in order for more info.

2. Minecraft ($7)

Minecraft is one of the most popular games in the world and it’s available to play on Apple iPhone for just $7. It’s a sandbox game where players are free to create and explore the world to climb mountains, unearth caves, and mine precious ore to build homes, weapons, villages, and more.

You can also see our guide to how to play Minecraft for free .

3. Five Nights at Freddy's 2 ($3)

Five Nights at Freddy's 2 welcomes you back to Freddy Fazbear's Pizza. You play as a new security guard working nights, and since the old security guard complained about the animatronics trying to break in, you've been given a Freddy Fazbear head to hide in just in case they come around. What could go wrong? Again, you'll strive to survive five nights against these animatronics.

4. Five Nights at Freddy's 4 ($3)

Stepping away from the role of a security guard, Five Nights at Freddy's 4 has you play as a young child instead who must survive the night in their room until 6am. From your bedroom, you'll need to run from door-to-door to keep an eye out for Freddy, Chica, Bonnie, and Foxy. They're not the only ones lurking in the shadows, though, so you'll have to keep your flashlight close.

5. Geometry Dash ($2)

Geometry Dash is a rhythm-based platformer where players control shapes to jump from point-A to point-B with unique soundtracks for each level. The game even features a level editor where you can create and share your own levels. The app is just $2 and doesn’t include any in-app purchases, so unlocking new icons and characters is completely based on your skills throughout the game.

6. Heads Up! ($2)

It’s the game “Who Am I?,” but for the digital age. Created by Ellen DeGeneres, Head Up! is charades with a twist. You place your iPhone (screen out) on your forehead, then a name or title appears on the display, your friends or family have to act out the clues, and then you have to guess the name of the character, movie title, animal, superhero, and more within 60 seconds. You can even play via Apple Facetime or Zoom. Not bad for just $2.

7. Ultimate Custom Night ($3)

Ultimate Custom Night is, as its title states, the ultimate way to customize a night in Five Nights at Freddy's. Trapped in an office once again, you'll be able to choose from 50 animatronic characters and mix and match them. You can even set their difficulty from 0-20, depending on how challenging you want it.

8. Bloons TD 6 ($7)

At $7, Bloons TD 6 is a top-down tower defense where players create defenses made up of hero monkeys, structures, towers, bridges, and traps to stop “Bloons,” balloon-like objects, from exiting each map. Players collect coins to upgrade their defenses.

9. Five Nights at Freddy's 3 ($3)

Set 30 years after Freddy Fazbear's Pizza closed, Five Nights at Freddy's 3 takes place in Fazbear's Fright: The Horror Attraction, where you'll take on the role of a security guard. However, it's not just security cameras you'll have to worry about, you'll also have to check on audio devices and ventilation through the Maintenance Panel. All of this while keeping just one very dangerous animatronic away...

10. Monopoly - Classic Board Game ($5)

Now play Monopoly with your Apple mobile device. This is the classic version of the board game with new graphics and fun animations in a fully immersive mobile experience. Roll the dice and travel around the board to buy up properties, build houses and hotels, collect Monopoly Money, and bankrupt friends and family.

You can even play as classic game pieces, including the scottie, cat, T-Rex, rubber duck, and others. And since this is the paid version at only $5, it’s ad-free with no interruptions or distracting pop-ups.

How to Choose Which iPhone Games to Play

There are millions upon millions of apps and games on the Apple App Store, so it might be intimidating to start with just one to play. While the most popular game lists—either free or paid—are a good place to start, there are some other factors you should consider before you tap download. Here’s what to look for in Apple iPhone games.

First of all, if you have a very old iPhone, you should check if it’s compatible with the mobile game. Most games require your iPhone to run, at least, iOS 8 or higher—which is compatible with the Apple iPhone 4S or higher. This iPhone model was released in October 2011, so any iPhone release beforehand will not be compatible with these games.

You should also be aware of how much space you have on your iPhone. The file size for mobile games can go from a few hundred megabytes all the way up to about 20GB, so if you don’t have enough space on your smartphone, then it won’t be able to download completely on your hardware. If that’s the case, you should consider deleting a few apps to free up some space, get a new iPhone with a larger storage capacity, or think about downloading a new game altogether.

Then, you should consider the price. While there are a lot of free games available, free doesn’t necessarily mean completely free. A lot of these free games offer in-app purchases for upgrades. For example, in the game Royal Match , you have a limited number of lives to play, once you lose a life, you have to wait 30 minutes to regain it. However, if you pay, you can unlock the app to get more lives.

Unfortunately, the same thing can be said for a paid game too. Just because you have to pay for an app at first, it doesn’t mean there aren’t additional in-app purchases available. But, if a mobile game is on the pricey side, then it’s likely that the unlocked version will download to your iPhone.

Additionally, you can also get a subscription to Apple Arcade for $5/mo. to unlock all of the iOS games available with no in-app purchases to play on iPhone, iPad, MacBook, and Apple TV. If you’re an avid mobile gamer, then this is the way to go.

The final thing you should look out for in an Apple iPhone game is if it looks fun to play. If a game looks like a lot of fun or a challenge, then tap download and immerse yourself in a whole new universe and experience.

Upcoming iPhone Games

Wondering what new iPhone games are coming down the pipeline? Take a look at our guide to all of the biggest upcoming iPhone games to see what's coming in 2023 and beyond. You can also check out our guide to the new iPhone 15 if you're looking to upgrade your device this year, which will soon have a playable version of the Resident Evil 4 Remake .

Rudie Obias is a contributing freelance Tech writer and editor for IGN with a speciality in all things Apple products.

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Going on a road trip? These games will help you pass the time 

From classics like Scrabble and Uno to newer hits that prioritize conversation and connection, these games will appeal to everyone in the car.

No matter where you’re going on a road trip, travel games can be a great way to pass long hours in the car and create lasting memories.

The best travel games should be small and light enough to pack with you. They should appeal to a wide range of ages and interests. And of course, they should provide hours of entertainment.

With that in mind, the classic card game Uno is our top choice for best overall travel game. It’s compact, fun for everyone, and easy to pack and pull out when the mood strikes.  

But it’s not the only one. We considered portable games in several categories too. From classic board games to Ping Pong-inspired matches, here are the best travel games to take on your next road trip.

The best travel games by category

We break down the best travel games based on different categories like board games, card games, and more.  

The best travel board games

Purple cow magnetic backgammon  .

One of the best travel board games is backgammon, considered the national game in many countries across the Middle East and the Mediterranean. This portable version of the classic board game is magnetized so the pieces don’t slide around. Simply open the case, roll the dice, and play. The board may be smaller, but the strategy remains the same.  

Keep in mind:   The magnets on the pieces aren’t the strongest but do a good enough job of staying mostly in place.  

Product details: Number of players: 2 | Ages: 5 and up | Minutes to play a round: 15 |   Size: 6 x 3 inches  

Portable Puck Shot

Sturdy wooden pucks and a Baltic birch wood case make this portable hockey board game ideal for car trips, camping, or spending a cozy evening in a cabin. You don’t have to be a hockey lover to enjoy this fast-paced game either. It involves a simple sling that fires wooden pucks across the board at your opponent’s goal.  

Keep in mind:   The Portable Puck Shot game is a bit large and heavy, making it more suitable for a road trip than for carrying onto a plane.  

Product details:   Number of players: 2 | Ages: 6 and up | Minutes to play a round: 5 | Size: 17 x 10.25 inches  

Scrabble to Go

Buy it now on   Amazon

It’s not hard to see why Scrabble is one of the most popular board games around. It appeals to players across generations, stimulates the brain, and can spark fun debates. This miniature version comes with snap-in tiles that make it easy to play on bumpy car rides or pick up later, after a break.  

Keep in mind:   The tiles on this mini version are small, which may take some getting used to for some players.

Product details: Number of players: 2 to 4 | Ages: 8 and up | Minutes to play a round: 25 | Size: 10.63 x 2.50 x 10.63 inches

Best travel card games  

Song survivor.

This travel card game is a great way to kick off singalongs in the car or hotels after a long day of travel. Developed by Black-owned small business Doin’ The Most, the game involves drawing cards with one word, prompting each player to sing a song containing that word. If a player messes up the lyrics or can’t think of a song in time, they’re out. This card game is designed for players (and crooners) 13 and up, with easy and hard modes to help make the game as challenging as you want.  

Keep in mind:   Not everyone is into singing outside of the shower, so consider your audience of fellow players before bringing this one along.  

Product details: Number of players: 2 and up | Ages: 16 and up | Minutes to play a round: 15 | Size: travel size  

52 Essential Conversations

The premise behind this intriguing travel card game springs from the idea that the art of engaging conversation never goes out of style. It’s a “social-emotional” learning game designed to get players thinking and talking about topics that can help people—including kids—open up, improve social skills, and spark creativity. The cards come in a small tin box, making them easy to keep organized and bring anywhere.  

Keep in mind: Although this travel card game is designed for players 5 and up, some questions lean more adult. If you’re playing with a multigenerational group, you can skip the questions better suited to adults or take them out of the deck before you play.  

Product details: Number of players: 2 and up | Ages: 5 and up | Minutes to play a round: NA | Size:   3 x 2 x 1 inches

This popular family card game is equally fun to play while traveling. You can go head to head with just one other person or as many as 10. The objective is to be the first person to get rid of all your cards. But achieving that goal depends on the luck of the draw. Just don’t forget to shout “Uno!” when you’re down to your last card. We love that this version comes in a sturdy tin for safekeeping.

Keep in mind:   This version of Uno incorporates graphic symbols on the cards so players with colorblindness can play too.  

Product details: Number of players: 2 to 10 |   Ages: 7 and up | Minutes to play a round: 15 | Size: 3 x 2 x 5 inches

Exploding Kittens

Easy to learn and loads of fun, Exploding Kittens is a cheeky card game loosely based on Russian roulette. Players draw cards, but use strategy (plus special “immunity” cards) to avoid drawing an “exploding kitten” card. With its compact size and lack of any additional game pieces, this card game is a hilarious way to pass the time while traveling.

Keep in mind: This card game is available in English, but other languages (German, Spanish, Italian, and French) are in the works.  

Product details:   Number of players:   2 to 10 | Ages:   7 and up | Minutes to play a round: 15 | Size: ‎4.41 x 6.38 x 1.5 inches  

Best travel games for adults

Pepper pong.

This portable spin on ping pong and pickleball is one of the best travel games for adults. About the size of a shoebox, the game sets up virtually anywhere in a matter of seconds. Place the foldable net (called a Fence) on a picnic table at the park or any other relatively flat surface, and you’re good to go. The game’s three ball sizes (called Peppers) give you options for how aggressively you want to play. You can also feel good about purchasing this portable travel game—the makers say they donate a set to a recovery center or addiction-focused homeless center with each set they sell.  

Keep in mind:   There’s no official age minimum for this game. If you can swing the racket you can play. You’ll need a flat surface to set up.

Product details: Number of players: 2 to 4 | Ages: 3 and up | Minutes to play a round: 15 | Size: 12 x 7 x 4 inches

The Hygge Game

Buy it now at   Uncommon Goods

Hygge is the Danish word for coziness and the basis for this 300-question portable travel game. The questions are designed to foster meaningful conversations among friends and family members. Play it during long car rides, in a candlelit, hygge-inspired restaurant, or anyplace where you want to spark fun and thoughtful connections.  

Keep in mind: Some of the questions go pretty deep and might surprise people who prefer more superficial lines of interrogation.  

Product details: Number of players: 2 and up | Ages:   14 and up | Minutes to play a round: 15 |   Size:   5.70 x 5.70 x 1.80 inches

Parents Are Human

Like the Hygge Game, Parents Are Human is a card game that fosters understanding and connections. This specific deck (others are designed for friends, romantic partners, and siblings) focuses on immigrant families, making it a great game for family road trips. Each set includes 50 question cards and 20 action cards in English on one side and another language on the other ( Arabic, Chinese, Punjabi, Spanish, and Thai).

Keep in mind:   Some reviewers say you can’t play this card game many times with the same people.  

Product details:   Number of players: 2 and up | Ages:   13 and up | Minutes to play a round: NA | Size: ‎3.81 x 2.81 x 1.44 inches

Where Should We Begin

This traveling card game stems from relationship therapist and author Esther Perel’s Where Should We Begin podcast and is ideally suited for adults. Cards with topics like “A dream I’ve never shared” and “One of the things that is keeping me up at night” help travel companions learn more about each other in an approachable way.

Keep in mind: Many reviewers prefer not to use the dice and pull randomly from the deck of cards instead.  

Product details: Number of players: 2 to 6 players | Ages: 18 and up | Minutes to play a round: NA | Size:   9.4 x 4.9 x 2.6 inches  

Best travel games for kids

Nex playground.

This compact game console works as a portable travel game that the whole family can play while on the road. The colorful cube uses motion sensors (with controllers or wearable gear) for family-friendly competition. Just plug Nex Playground into a TV and tap the library of more than 20 games and experiences ranging from dance-offs to sports competitions and activities like jumping in puddles with favorite cartoon characters.  

Keep in mind: You’ll need floor space of about 8 feet by 8 feet to play, since the game requires moving around. If you’re in a small hotel room or other tight space, that can be challenging.  

Product details:   Number of players: Up to 4 | Ages: 5 and up | Minutes to play a round:   5 | Size: 2.83 x 2.83 x 2.83 inches

Kanoodle Ultimate Champion

Popular on TikTok, this puzzle game can easily pack up and go with you on your next road trip. It comes with over 500 puzzles and a timer, challenging family members to use problem solving and spatial reasoning skills to beat the clock in time.  

Keep in mind:   This game requires two AAA batteries to operate.  

Product details: Number of players:   1 | Ages:   7 and up | Minutes to play a round: 15 to 30 | Size: ‎5.75 x 2 inches  

Play Monster Take ’N Play Bingo

Kids can spend hours playing this traveling bingo game. The animal-based bingo cards are built into a metal case that closes for easy storage and transport. Two players take turns spinning the spinner and placing magnetic markers on the matching animals.

Keep in mind:   The magnet is built into one side of the marker pieces, so they’re not the strongest at staying put on the board. However, this game is hard to beat for an affordable and fun option.

Product details: Number of players:   2 | Ages:   4 and up | Minutes to play a round: 5 | Size:   1 x 6.50 x 6.50 inches

Pass the Pigs

Families will get a kick out of this adorable dice game that involves rolling a pair of pig-shaped pieces to score points. The first player to score 100 points wins. It’s also a great game to play anywhere while traveling, since it only requires a flat surface to play, plus the pigs, scoring pads, and pencils fit in a small plastic storage case that easily tucks into a backpack.  

Keep in mind: Small parts could pose a choking hazard for younger kids.  

Product details: Number of players:   2 | Ages:   7 and up | Minutes to play a round: 15 | Size:   1.63 x 4.25 x 9.25 inches

Our review process  

The best portable travel games are compact and light enough to take on a road trip or flight, can be contained in a case, and are still fun after multiple rounds of play.

Size:   Travel games shouldn’t be large and heavy. They should be small and light enough to fit easily into suitcases and carry-ons.

Multiplayer: Games for two or more players are best, since the whole point of travel games is to keep everyone entertained.  

Fun-factor: Travel games can help stave off boredom between activities, while you’re in transit, or during travel delays. So make sure you choose games that appeal across ages, interests, and have enough variety for the long haul.  

Tips for buying travel games

Size of the game

When it comes to the best travel games, size matters, whether you travel with just a carry-on suitcase or don’t want to bulk out your checked baggage. Look for games that are contained in a case small enough to fit into a backpack. On road trips, you can get away with larger games, especially if you’re driving your own vehicle.  

Game ratings and popularity

A game’s ratings and popularity can give you a good idea for whether or not it will work for your needs. A sure-fire tip is to look for reviews by customers with similar travel styles and companions as your own.  

Players’ ages

It goes without saying, but you’ll maximize fun by packing travel games that are appropriate for everyone in your group. Consider bringing a couple of games–one for spending time with the kids and another for adults.  

Time it takes to play a round

When shopping for the best travel games, keep in mind that some people can take longer to finish a game than others. Consider your travel companions’ attention spans and choose accordingly.  

Frequently asked questions

Are there travel-sized board games?

Yes, many classic and unique board games come in travel sizes. Some even have travel-friendly modifications, such as magnets to prevent pieces from sliding off the board and carrying cases that keep everything contained.  

How do you know if a game is good for traveling?

Some games are better suited to travel than others. Card games with a carrying case and board games that don’t have too many loose parts (or are magnetized) tend to be good options for the road. Consider the size and weight of the travel game’s carrying case too. Make sure there’s enough room among everything else you’re packing for your trip.  

What are the best travel games for an airplane?

Since space is limited on an airplane, look for games that don’t take up more room than a typical airplane tray table. You’ll also want travel games that can handle turbulence and that you can quickly and easily pick up, in case you need to get out of your seat for a neighbor.  

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Why the new iPhone 15 and 15 Pro are game changers for travelers

Sometimes, the smallest changes can make the biggest impact.

And that's especially the case with Apple's brand-new iPhone 15 and 15 Pro smartphones , which debuted last week at the tech giant's "Wanderlust" press event.

Now that the devices are available for sale in stores and online, you're probably wondering if this is the year to upgrade.

As a road warrior, I'm always looking for devices that will upgrade my travel experience . After a few days of testing the new phones, I can confidently say that the iPhone 15 family will undoubtedly improve the way I get around.

Despite retaining the same general aesthetic as recent generations, this year's iPhone lineup packs some small but mighty updates that should make this the smartphone of choice for many travelers.

Here's why.

2-way USB-C charging

It all starts with how you actually charge the new iPhones.

Over the last decade, you've probably become very familiar with Apple's proprietary Lightning port at the bottom of every iPhone. This year, however, the tech giant has officially retired the Lightning connection in favor of USB-C.

This universal standard is far more ubiquitous globally and has countless benefits for travelers.

For one, it means you'll no longer need to carry multiple charging cables for all your devices. The swap to a USB-C port means your iPhone, iPad and Mac (and many other non-Apple devices) can all now be charged with a single USB-C charging cable — no more separate cable required just to power your iPhone.

Moreover, since USB-C is the new industry standard charging port, you should have no problem finding one of these cables on the go if you forget to pack one. (And don't worry, each new iPhone includes a stylish white braided USB-C charging cable in the box).

The switch to USB-C has already helped reduce cable clutter in my backpack, but it gets even better.

With the introduction of USB-C, you can now use your iPhone to charge other small devices, including the second-generation AirPods Pro with a USB-C port, an Apple Watch or even another iPhone, as well as some smaller third-party devices, too.

Of course, charging other devices will eat up your iPhone battery — I lost about 10% of charge to deliver 25% of charge to my Apple Watch — but being able to use my primary smartphone as a battery pack is a very helpful "insurance policy" against my other devices dying.

The switch to USB-C also speeds up data transfers and supports sharing to external displays, some features that many pro-level users will appreciate.

A handful of Apple products still use the Lightning port (including the AirPods Max and some iPads), but as the company fully transitions to USB-C, travelers have lots to get excited about.

This small change at the bottom of every iPhone unlocks much more power — no pun intended — for every traveler with an iPhone 15.

Action Button for easier access

Until now, every iPhone model has shipped with a ring/silent switch. But if you're anything like me, your iPhone stays on silent all day long, essentially turning this little switch into a small space for dust to collect.

With the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max, Apple introduced an all-new Action Button (similar to what's found on the Apple Watch Ultra ) instead of the ring/silent switch.

As part of the change, you now have nearly unlimited options for what this switch can do. You can program the Action Button during initial setup and in the settings app. Apple provides a handful of popular preprogrammed functions, including opening the camera, turning on the flashlight and recording a voice memo.

I experimented with using the Action Button to open the camera, and I found this to be the fastest way possible to grab a shot while on the go.

Unless you're like me and always snapping pictures while you're traveling, you may want to use this button for something else, such as checking your flight status.

The great news is that there are nearly infinite customization options through the Shortcut app. You can set it to open your favorite airline app or start a timer for when boarding begins. And, since it's entirely powered by software, you can change the function as frequently as you'd like.

Another small change with powerful implications for travelers.

Dynamic Island on all iPhones

Last year, Apple introduced the Dynamic Island on the iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max , and this year, every single iPhone 15, including the base models, features this new island "destination."

While the tech giant has created some helpful first-party notifications for this pill-shaped cutout, several third-party developers have taken this experience to the next level, especially for travelers. From keeping track of your flight status with United Airlines or Flighty to getting a live countdown until your Uber or Lyft arrives, the Dynamic Island has helped make life on the road more efficient.

By bringing the Dynamic Island to the entire iPhone 15 family, Apple's most affordable new smartphones are more powerful than ever before.

Portability and durability

Both the iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Pro models received a travel-friendly redesign this year.

Most notably, the Pro models are now made from titanium. When this was first announced, I wasn't really sure how the Pro models would feel in my hand and pocket, but after just a few days, there's no going back.

Not only are these the lightest Pro models Apple has ever made (definitely noticeable from the moment I picked them up), but the thinner borders also help make my content pop across the entire front face of the phone. Plus, the rounded edges feel better in my hand than the previous models.

Of course, the shift to titanium should also bring some notable durability improvements to these devices — a key feature for frequent travelers who are always on planes and trains. I haven't dropped my phone yet, but the titanium design should, in theory, mean that it won't damage as easily as an older phone. (If it does get damaged, the good news is that the new back enclosure can now be fixed for between $169 and $199, relative to the much higher $449 to $549 out-of-pocket repair cost on last year's models.)

As a whole, the iPhone 15 family feels more premium than before. The back glass now embeds the color into a single piece of glass and has rounded edges.

While Apple has taken a big step forward in the iPhone design, the same can't necessarily be said for the company's new first-party cases, some of which are now made from a proprietary so-called FineWoven material that replaces the leather cases Apple used to sell.

In my testing, I found that the case quickly showed lots of smudges and nicks from fingerprints. I'd recommend ordering an Apple-branded silicone case instead (or just heading to Amazon for something more affordable).

Satellite connectivity gets more powerful

The iPhone 15 family takes satellite connectivity to the next "stratosphere." In addition to the existing Emergency SOS via satellite service , the iPhone 15 introduces roadside assistance in the U.S.

I don't currently own a car, but I am a frequent renter, especially when I'm traveling to national parks. I love the outdoors, which means I often go places without cell service.

In the past, that meant I was entirely off the grid if something bad happened. But with satellite connectivity on the iPhone 15 family, I will be reassured that I can contact help if needed.

With the new roadside assistance feature, you can connect with AAA if something goes wrong with your car, even if you don't have cell service. (This service is free for AAA members and can be purchased on a one-time basis by nonmembers.)

I hope to never use this feature, but it's good to know it's there if something goes wrong.

The good news is that you don't necessarily need to upgrade to take advantage of this service. Every iPhone 14 features satellite connectivity and can also connect to the roadside assistance service as of Friday.

Camera boosts

As they say, the best camera is the one that's with you, and for many travelers, that's a smartphone.

This year, Apple brought some serious camera upgrades to both the iPhone 15 and 15 Pro. While I haven't yet been on the road to put them to the test, my initial impressions are that this might just be the biggest leap forward yet.

Not only do the phones include a range of new lens options — a whopping seven choices on the iPhone 15 Pro models — but they also feature upgrades to the software that processes images.

I've already seen some noticeable boosts in low-light photography, which will be great for airplane cabins and hotel room tours taken at night.

Future-proof technology

There are no two ways about it: Upgrading your phone is a significant investment. However, these new devices are packed with technologies that shouldn't become outdated in just a few months.

Perhaps the most exciting one is a new Ultra Wideband chip. This technology tells you how close you are to an AirTag or a friend you follow on Find My Friends.

The new chip enables up to three times the range, which means that finding your friend or loved one (who also uses a new iPhone) at a loud concert or crowded airport will be easier.

Other tech upgrades include Wi-Fi 6E (on the iPhone 15 Pro) and the second-generation Qi wireless charging standards for both models — two technologies that are slowly becoming more popular.

Just like last year, iPhone 15 models exclusively support eSIM (or embedded SIM cards) , which means that connecting to your cell provider is done exclusively via software on the phone — a major change that Apple debuted last year .

IOS 17 upgrades

Along with the new hardware come some software improvements in the form of iOS 17, which was released to all recent iPhone users on Monday.

The software includes some travel-friendly features that I've already incorporated into my routine, including standby mode, Live Voicemail, check-in and shared AirTags.

Standby mode essentially replaces the traditional alarm clock. It allows you to dock your phone in the horizontal orientation and view the time, weather and any other essential information while the phone charges overnight.

In the above photo, I'm using Belkin's 2-in-1 wireless charger stand, which works perfectly for standby mode.

Meanwhile, Live Voicemail is a game changer for me when I'm busy on the road. When I send calls to voicemail, it automatically transcribes the message in real time. If I notice that it's something urgent, I can still pick up the phone without missing the call.

Note that this feature uses cellular data; additional calling rates may apply if you're roaming.

Check-in lets my friends and family set automatic geofences to alert me when they get home, and sharing AirTags means that multiple people can track the same suitcase or backpack during the journey.

Bottom line

Smartphones have become an essential part of travel, and Apple's brand-new iPhone 15 family takes this experience to the next level.

In fact, three of the physically smallest changes pack major upgrades for those who are always on the move. This includes the all-new USB-C charging port, which can even charge other small devices, the Action Button on the Pro-level models and the Dynamic Island on the entry-level iPhone 15s.

Combined with a new design on both models, along with serious camera upgrades and some future-forward technologies, these are Apple's best travel-friendly phones yet.

If you're still on the fence about upgrading, this might just be the year to do it, especially if you're carrying around an iPhone 13 or earlier.

This hidden iPhone feature is a game changer for air travel

• A hidden iPhone feature is gaining popularity thanks to a viral TikTok.
• Without downloading a third-party app, you can easily track any flight on an iPhone.

Whether you arrive at the airport hours before your flight or cut as close to the boarding door being closed as humanly possible, you can’t deny that it’s helpful to at least know your gate and if your flight is on time.

While there are countless dedicated apps for tracking your flight, identifying your aircraft’s tail number, determining the inbound flight, and even displaying your flight path, the iPhone itself has a bit of a superpower hiding in plain sight.

Related: iPhone owners just got access to a life-changing feature

“Preview Flight” has long been integrated into Apple's  ( AAPL )  iPhone and isn’t a new feature found in a recent software update like iOS 17.4 . Rather, it’s a classic — much like Shake to Undo — that’s once again gaining popularity thanks to TikTok .

It’s a personal favorite of mine regarding iPhone features. It makes it super simple to figure out the gate and track my flight, as well as to keep family and friends in the loop on travels. Here's how to use “Preview Flight” on your iPhone within Messages and by searching in Spotlight.

How to track a flight in Messages?

Unlike Flighty, an app I love, “Preview Flight” is already integrated with your iPhone and doesn’t require a separate download. In fact, if you text someone your flight number with the airline code in front, there is a chance you’ve already used it.

Once you’ve sent the airline code and flight number, you can simply tap on it in-line and then hit preview flight. From there, a splash screen will show a flight map showing the airline and flight number, flight status, arrival and departure times, overall duration, and even the gate and baggage claim.

Now, if that flight number is used for multiple flights, you can swipe between the corresponding flights.

It’s really that simple, and it updates in real time. So, if you’re already in the habit of texting your flight number to a loved one, a friend you're meeting, or a general group when you’re traveling, it’s also an easy way to track your flight.

As a cheat sheet, here are the flight codes for a few United States carriers: United is UA, Delta is DL, JetBlue is B6, American Airlines is AA, Frontier is F9, Spirit is NK, and Southwest is WN. Simply type that and your flight number with no space.

While a common place where this will appear and be used is in Messages, it also works in the email app.

Related: Report: Apple is bringing major changes to a fan-favorite product

How to search for a flight in Spotlight?

Thanks to Spotlight, aka the native search function built into the iPhone , you can also search for your Flight Number and get the same handy result without texting someone else.

On your iPhone’s home screen, you’ll swipe top to bottom in the middle of the screen. This will pull up the Spotlight menu, and you can easily type in your flight number via the keyboard to see the results in real-time.

Once you’ve searched, you’ll see the “Preview Flight" and can tap that to see the full widget. Like in Messages, this will pull up the flight map and pertinent information like the gate, arrival and departure times, and flight duration.

This is a handy way to confirm the gate or that you aren’t delayed as you make your way through the airport.

Of course, we’d be remiss not to share the current TikTok that is going viral showcasing this iPhone superpower.

Related: Veteran fund manager picks favorite stocks for 2024

Every product was carefully curated by an Esquire editor. We may earn a commission from these links.

What We Really Think of the iPhone 15 Pro

After six months and hundreds of hours of gaming—here’s our final verdict.

I didn't rush into this review 24 hours after the iPhone 15 Pro launched in September 2023, but a lot of very loud people did that. A lot of people quickly shoehorned the model's upgrades into an Apple vs. Android superiority argument. I wanted to take my time.

The tech and gaming crowd loves Android. But most Americans, myself included, will shell out for an iPhone. Truthfully, I don't care about that argument, but it appears Apple still does. When the iPhone 15 Pro launched last September, the main marketing push was toward gaming—which Android devices have historically dominated. We got a massive camera upgrade, and the whole thing is made of titanium now, but gaming is the big focus here.

I went into testing it thinking, I s the iPhone 15 Pro the device that will make Apple the top dog in mobile gaming? My answer: not just yet. But I'm not going to ignore that it's a giant step in the right direction.

If you didn't come here for the gaming breakdown, my review for the normies is that it's lightning fast, has the most insane camera system the iPhone has ever seen, and, finally, is more durable than ever. That brings the added comfort of using it without a phone case—something that feels like a luxury. It's absolutely worth the money.

A breakdown of gaming on iPhone 15 Pro.

So we're reviewing off two AAA titles here. Let's start with the hard tech-review stuff. In terms of graphics quality, frame rate, and overall performance, the iPhone 15 Pro performs valiantly. Occasionally, the iPhone 15 Pro will experience frame-rate drops, but it never ruins the overall experience. Beyond that, yes, it gets hot to the touch when you run these giant games. But you'll want to play these games with a controller , anyway. So I was never really touching my scorching-hot phone. It never bothered me that much.

The real downside, in my mind, is that the way you consume a console-style game isn't conducive to mobile gaming. Resident Evil kind of works because it's action based, and Assassin's Creed will be similar. But Death Stranding is a horrible game for mobile. I absolutely loved playing it on the console, but it's so narrative driven. I rarely want to sit down and stare at a phone screen for more than 30 minutes, but just the cutscenes run that long in Death Stranding . The only time I really dived into the game on mobile was on flights, and even then, I would rather play something laid-back like Stardew Valley . It's impressive that an iPhone can even run AAA games, but truthfully this feels more like a debate for AAA on mobile than it does as an Apple-specific problem.

Apple iPhone 15 Pro

The final verdict.

Honestly, there is so much that the iPhone 15 Pro gets right in terms of gaming. The biggest thing to me was the art style. The little A17 Pro chipset can upscale graphics all it wants, but it won't be able to perfectly match an Xbox or PlayStation in detail—again, a mobile and not Apple issue. What I really commend Apple on is its infrastructure, which lets developers retain their art style. For me, it's most evident in Death Stranding . Hideo Kojima and Co. made a fucking beautiful game. A lot of it is narrative, but a lot of it is artistic. That soaked-to-the-bone feeling you get when you travel between settlements, the futuristic Acronym-style clothing, and the soundscape are all present in the iPhone version. That's a triumph, and you have to credit the tools Apple gives its developers.

It is honestly incredible that the iPhone 15 Pro can even run these games. The A17 Pro chipset is as good as anything you'll find in any other phone out there. There are graphics-heavy action sequences in Resident Evil that the phone powers through flawlessly. Sure, there is the occasional frame-rate drop, but I'm not really picky about that. It's just a phone. If it can do all high-level computing, it'll certainly handle all the web surfing and photo and video editing a normal person would put it through.

Lastly, though, I want to bring up a separate gaming point. Earlier, I said the AAA titles on iPhone were just a hardware flex, and I stand by that. No one really asked for Death Stranding on mobile. It's just cool to see, and it proves how powerful this little computer is. What the iPhone 15 Pro is actually incredible at is the classic mobile gaming experience. Pair that lightning-fast A17 Pro chipset with the Apple Arcade catalog and you've got an incredible combo. Instead of watching hours' worth of Death Stranding cutscenes, I could tend my farm in Stardew Valley or run through Sonic Dream Team levels all day and still have 30 percent battery when I sit down for dinner.

And that's kind of what I've walked away from these past six months thinking. It's amazing that Apple is making a phone this powerful, and the fact that the company will work more closely with AAA developers in the future spells trouble for the Android phones that gaming nerds tend to love. If you're a casual gamer, you could get away with a regular iPhone, but if you're logging serious hours, the iPhone 15 Pro is the device you want. It's as powerful as its Android competitors, and Apple Arcade ($6.99/month) really is the best deal in mobile gaming. This phone and the subsequent push of Apple Arcade is Cupertino's first big step into mobile gaming, and it's put the rest of the market on notice.

iPhone 15 Pro

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‘Jet Lag: The Game’ Creators to Launch New Travel Competition ‘The Getaway’ on Nebula This Summer (EXCLUSIVE)

By Jennifer Maas

Jennifer Maas

TV Business Writer

• ‘Jet Lag: The Game’ Creators to Launch New Travel Competition ‘The Getaway’ on Nebula This Summer (EXCLUSIVE) 6 days ago
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• Morning Brew to Launch Four News Channels, Including Neal Freyman and Toby Howell’s ‘Morning Brew Daily,’ on Indie Streamer Nebula (EXCLUSIVE) 2 weeks ago

The “ Jet Lag: The Game ” creators Sam Denby, Ben Doyle and Adam Chase have set their next reality travel competition series, “ The Getaway ,” to debut this summer on indie streamer Nebula .

The show, which unlike “Jet Lag” (where episodes drop later on YouTube) will be available exclusively on Nebula, follows six creators on a road trip through the American West as they compete in a game of social strategy and deception.

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Though it’s from the same team that makes “Jet Lag: The Game,” “The Getaway” is a separate project from that travel competition series, which just concluded its Switzerland-set ninth season. Season 10 of “Jet Lag,” which will take place in Australia, is already in the works.

Denby, who is also chief content officer at Nebula, will executive produce “The Getaway” alongside Nebula CEO Dave Wiskus and vice president of production Trenton Waterson. Denby will direct, with Doyle and Chase heavily involved in production. Valentina Vee is serving as DP.

“The Getaway” is among several originals recently picked up as part of Nebula’s 2024 programming slate.

“’The Jet Lag’ team told us they had an idea, so we greenlit it,” Wiskus said.

“We’ve been working on this show for the better part of a year so it’s extremely rewarding to see it coming together,” Denby added. “We’ve taken everything we’ve learned from producing ‘Jet Lag’ to the next level to create an exciting new spin on a travel competition series that viewers won’t want to miss.”

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Game emulators arrive in App Store following rule changes

Emulators arrive on iPhone

Apple made a change to guideline 4.7 of the App Store Review Guidelines in early April , reversing a rule that effectively banned the submission of console and classic game emulators for iOS and iPadOS .

The change, which specifically allows apps to run "software that is not embedded in the binary," with "retro game console emulator apps" included on the list of acceptable applications of the rule change.

On Saturday, AppleInsider spotted the presence of some emulator apps that made it through the App Store review process, and are downloadable from the App Store itself.

Emu64 XL is a Commodore 64 emulator designed for the iPad , but it is also able to run on other Apple hardware. The compatibility list includes iOS or iPadOS 11 or later, M1 Macs running macOS 11.0 or later, and the Apple Vision Pro .

The VICE-based emulator by Raffaele Amuso is able to load .T64 and .D64 files as if they are floppy disks, with it also offering various programs and sources written in CBM64 basic.

Another emulator aimed at more mainstream gamers is iGBA , a Gameboy Advance and Gameboy Color emulator from Mattia La Spina, with it claimed to accurately run Gameboy Color games with extensive customization options.

Again, the emulator can run on iPhones and iPads running iOS 12 or iPadOS 12, M1 Macs, and the Apple Vision Pro.

Both apps are listed as free to download and without any in-app purchases.

Under Apple's rule changes, emulators must adhere to a number of guidelines, including adding ways to filter objectionable content, follow all privacy guidelines, and to not share data or privacy permissions with other software. However, the nature of emulators makes it hard to determine how some of the rules will be enforced by Apple at all.

The concept of emulation itself is legal, but to play games legally, it is generally accepted that users must own the original ROM files for games they want to use. AppleInsider strongly recommends that potential players check out their local laws to determine their particular legal requirements.

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2024 NFL schedule: Packers have one travel concern for their historic game in Brazil against the Eagles

The packers seem to have one small complaint about being sent to brazil.

The Green Bay Packers are officially headed for Brazil , and now, they just have to figure out how to get there. Getting to a road game isn't usually a complicated process for an NFL team , but it could be for the Packers when they make their trip down to São Paulo for their 2024 season opener against the Philadelphia Eagles .   

The Packers concern is that they likely won't be able to fly directly to South America, which means they'll either have to schedule a layover somewhere or they'll have to take the nearly two-hour bus ride to Milwaukee to fly out of the airport there. 

Packers president Mark Murphy outlined the concern during an interview at the NFL 's annual league meeting on March 26 (The Packers hadn't been chosen for the game yet, but they were considered a finalist at that point). 

"The one issue with Green Bay is the size of our airport and the size of our runway, and we want to make sure that we're not at a competitive disadvantage in terms of how long it's going to take us to get to Brazil," Murphy said. "There's some thought that we might have to bus to Milwaukee and then fly, just some of those things."

When the Packers flew to London in 2022, they were able to take off from Green Bay for the 3,830-mile flight, but for São Paulo, the team will be traveling nearly 5,400 miles, which means the Packers will likely need a bigger plane and as Murphy notes, the airport in Green Bay isn't equipped to handle larger planes. 

If the Packers have to bus to Milwaukee, that would take about two hours and if you add that to the roughly 10.5-hour flight, that would put their travel time at nearly 13 hours. As for the Eagles, they'll easily be able to fly from Philadelphia and their flight will only take about 9.5 hours. 

"Philadelphia will just hop on a plane and go down (there)," Murphy said on April 9,  via Madison.com . 

As things stand today, the Packers are still trying to figure out how they're going to get to South America. 

"We're not sure exactly what we'll have to do to get to Brazil," Murphy said. 

There's a good chance that the Eagles don't feel sorry for the Packers at all. Philadelphia is giving up a home game to play in Brazil, so the fact that the Packers might have to deal with a few travel issues adds an element of home-field advantage that the Eagles are otherwise losing. 

Although Murphy isn't thrilled with the travel situation, he is thrilled that the Packers are playing in such a huge game for the NFL. 

"We're looking forward to being a part of this historic matchup against the Eagles in São Paulo," Murphy said on Wednesday after the game was officially announced. "We're excited to play in front of our devoted fans in Brazil and help build upon the international popularity of the NFL and the Packers. We had a great experience playing internationally for the first time a couple of years ago and we're proud to be part of the league's continued global growth."

The Week 1 matchup, which will be the NFL's first-ever regular-season game in Brazil, will kick off on Friday, Sept. 6 and it will be streaming exclusively on Peacock. It's the NFL's first Friday game in Week 1 since 1970. 

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