In our list of the best free Android games, we look at the some of the Play Store's most impressive free-to-play titles across a number of genres. The games are sorted by category to make it easy to find the type of games you're looking for. We've added five new games: the strategic Plague Inc., the endless runner Alto's Adventure, the classic Sonic the Hedgehog sidescroller, the adventurous CSI Hidden Crimes and the Elder Scrolls: Legends card game.
1_Clash Royale
Clash Royale comes from the creators of the ever-popular Clash of Clans, and it's sure to steal more hours from your life. It plays something like a cross between a MOBA and a tower-defense title, and it's a highly addictive concept.
In Clash Royale, you take part in one-on-one battles with other players from around the world. You must throw down troops to destroy three of your opponents towers before they do the same to you. However, these towers are only accessible via two lanes which your army must travel along.
The majority of Clash Royale's gameplay revolves around trying to use resources effectively. Each creature has their own unique strengths and weaknesses, so it's your job to pick the right guys for the job and make sure your opponent doesn't outmatch you.
2_Plague Inc.
Hopefully, you've never dreamed of creating a virus to exterminate humanity. Nevertheless, Plague Inc. combines the 'strategy' and 'post-apocalypse' genres. In this game, you must try to infect the world's population with a deadly virus, choosing from among the 12 accessible types. Moreover, the game is equipped with an artificial intelligence that will challenge your efforts.
3_Angry Birds 2
After what seems like endless variations on the original, Roxio is back with a whole new iteration of Angry Birds. The game itself is free, but it's attracted some controversy over its approach to in-app purchases: while some reviews say the game is a hoot even in its free incarnation, others say that Roxio is more interested in making you pay than having you play. We'd love to know what you think
4_Asphalt 8: Airborne
If you are into racecar driving, look no further than Asphalt 8: Airborne, a favorite arcade game among Android users. Why do we love it so much? It's free for a start, and you get to choose between real-life cars that you’ve always dreamed of driving – from Lamborghinis to Ferraris – ripping them down courses in various stunning locations.
If you have a competitive streak, you can drive in career mode, which takes you through eight seasons and 180 events.