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Top 25 best Japanese games for Android phones and tablets

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Top 25 best Japanese games for Android phones and tablets

Land of the rising thumbs - best Japanese games for Android

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Updated on October 18th, 2023 - one game swapped. Original list by Jon Mundy, updated by Jupiter Hadley.


If you are a fan of Eastern culture, then our list of the best Japanese games for Android will tickle the right nerves!

To misquote Monty Python's Life of Brian: What have the Japanese ever done for us and our hobby of video games? The by-no-means exhaustive response might include Nintendo, Sega, Sony, Square Enix, Taito, Konami. And that's just some of the companies. Mario, Zelda, Final Fantasy, Dragon Quest, Sonic, Metal Gear Solid, Space Invaders. Those are a few Japanese gaming properties.

SNES, PlayStation, Mega-Drive... look, you get the point. Japan's influence on the video games medium is as profound as any other country's. Indeed, many of the specifics of gaming culture are tightly bound up with The Land of the Rising Sun. Japan hasn't had quite such a profound influence on the world of mobile gaming. But it's still given us some truly classic Android games.

We've rounded up some of our favourites in the following feature. Can't see your own pick in there? Let us know in the comments below.

 

Click Here To View The List »

1
Super Mario Run

Publisher: Nintendo
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Platform
Find out more about Super Mario Run
Super Mario Run

It took a while to land on Android, but when it comes to Mario, we were willing to wait. Nintendo has cracked this mobile gaming lark at the first attempt with a supreme autorunning platformer.

No matter where you come from, Mario has been one of the staple Japanese creations to really have a breakthrough in the market through its Nintendo release, ages and ages ago. Nowadays... we have Japanese games for Android such as Super Mario Run as top contenders, and if you're eager to learn more about it, take a look at our Super Mario Run review!

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2
Downwell

Developer: Moppin
Available on: iOS + Android + Steam
Genre: Action, Platform
Find out more about Downwell
Downwell

Downwell splices together elements of a classic Japanese shmup with that of a classic Japanese platformer - and then shoots it all through with a hefty roguelike structure.

You might expect to see titles such as this one in old-style arcade machines, but no - you get to experience it right at your own location, on your very own mobile device. And yes, it is a premium game, but the premium price is truly nothing compared to the amazing experience while playing it. As we've mentioned in our Downwell review it's a brilliant roguelike that is only worthy of praise.

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3
Final Fantasy IX

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + PSP
Genre: Adventure, RPG
Find out more about Final Fantasy IX
Final Fantasy IX

Which Final Fantasy game is best? It's usually a choice between VI and VII, but on mobile, we'd have to go with IX. Not only is it arguably the last great classically styled entry to the series, but it's also a brilliant conversion job.

There was quite a bit of backlash from players eager to dive into the FFIX, only to find out it doesn't, in fact, work. That's why you might see some surprisingly negative reviews on Google - but don't let that discourage you. In the meantime, things have been fixed and improved, and it's a clear winner in the Japanese games for Android creation categories - just take a look at our Final Fantasy IX review. We've covered every aspect of it.

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4
Dragon Quest VIII

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + 3DS
Genre: RPG
Dragon Quest VIII: Journey of the Cursed King

Just like FF XI, Dragon Quest VIII takes an already brilliant JRPG and judiciously tweaks it for mobile play. It's been a popular pick for a while for a number of reasons, and one of the leading ones is that this brilliant game has all the key elements to make it a timeless choice.

Players can run through fields, exploring all the corners of the (slightly outdated) world, all the while encompassing the role-playing flavours that are not often seen in recent releases. It's worth your time, and if you want to learn why, read our Dragon Quest VIII review!

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5
Space Invaders Infinity Gene

Publisher: Taito
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Retro, Shooter
Find out more about Space Invaders Infinity Gene
Space Invaders Infinity Gene

This is no lazy port of an established classic. Rather, Space Invaders Infinity Gene is a total revamp built especially for mobile. It remains one of the best Japanese shooter games on mobile.

Read the Space Invaders Infinity Gene review we've prepared if you think you've got what it takes to dive into this classic masterpiece.

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6
Part Time UFO

Publisher: HAL Egg
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Puzzle
Find out more about Part Time UFO
Part Time UFO

HAL Laboratory is usually hard at work making games for Nintendo consoles, but its first mobile title is an absolute triumph. Part Time UFO is a brilliant take on arcade grabber Japanese games, with a range of inspired tasks and bags of charm.

Just one look at this adorable UFO and you'll know it will eat hours upon hours of your time. Highly addictive gameplay and great-looking graphics cleverly combined with the spot-on audio grant it a clear spot on this list. Read our Part Time UFO review if you're curious why we instantly fell in love with the game.

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7
Epic Seven

Developer: Smilegate
Publisher: Smilegate
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Epic Seven
Epic Seven

Epic Seven is an RPG that has kept a loyal player base through constantly rewarding playing on a daily basis. You are able to control and unlock a bunch of characters, who are able to explore the world around you. Epic Seven has lots of cinematic scenes, to set the story, as well as different attacks that various characters can do. It is often compared to Fate/Grand Order and Granblue Fantasy, but centered around a side-scrolling map with lots of different fight encounters and turn-based battles.

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8
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

Publisher: Konami
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Action, Adventure, RPG
Castlevania: Symphony of the Night

The game that put the 'vania' in Metroidvania (alongside Super Metroid), is now playable on iOS courtesy of Konami. This is one of the finest, most ambitious, and just plain meatiest action-platformers ever made.

If you have not heard of Castlevania, then all I have to ask is... Have you been living under a rock? The brilliant Japanese mobile game is done in such a manner that it can compete with some more recent creations from every single point of view. Pixel graphics? Check. Engaging platformer action? Double-check. A story to tie everything together? Triple-check. The list goes on, you get the point.

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9
Tensura: King of Monsters

Developer: Wanda Cinemas Games
Publisher: Wanda Cinemas Games
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: 3D, Action, Fighting, RPG
Find out more about Tensura: King of Monsters
Tensura: King of Monsters

Tensura: King of Monsters is a fantasy role-playing Japanese game for Android devices. A magnificent RPG made in anime style, which has already gained popularity in Asian countries, and now you can fully appreciate this wonderful project. In Tensura: King of Monsters, you will join iconic and rather powerful characters to unite their efforts under your command, and then go to an endless war against a legion of monsters and their immortal king.

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10
Aka to Blue

Available on: iOS
Genre: Shooter
Find out more about Aka to Blue
Aka to Blue

Aka to Blue is the next best thing to having an actual Cave shmup on your phone. It's a faithfully Cave-esque bullet-hell shooter from a company headed up by a former Cave employee.

The hardcore shooter approach is not often seen in Japanese games for Android, but Aka to Blue makes that possible in a unique way, one with spot-on controls and engaging interactions. Read our Aka to Blue review - oh, and as a side note, did you know that you're constantly getting waves and waves of coins that become oddly satisfying to collect? Just give it a try!

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11
Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS
Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition

Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition provides the complete FFXV story, but with a completely new chibi graphics engine and simplified gameplay mechanics. The result is a uniquely bespoke mobile RPG.

It's true though, it will not necessarily appeal to the old-time dedicated FF fans. It offers the same story, but with a lot less interactive battle system. If you want to hear the good, the bad, and the ugly when it comes to the FFXV PE though, you should read our Final Fantasy XV Pocket Edition review.

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12
Chrono Trigger

Developer: Square Enix
Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + DS
Genre: RPG
Find out more about Chrono Trigger
Chrono Trigger

Unlike some of the Japanese games for Android we've already listed, Chrono Trigger isn't a perfect port. However, at its core remains one of the finest JRPGs of all time, with a stunning time-bending plot and real-time(ish) battles.

Read Chrono Trigger review if you haven't done so already. We have criticized all the aspects of the game, including why we don't see it as a perfect port. And while Chrono Trigger doesn't stand out as much as it did back in '95, more than a decade later it's still a pretty solid choice - only adapted to different devices.

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13
Football Manager 2023 Mobile

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Simulation
Find out more about Football Manager 2023 Mobile
Football Manager 2023 Mobile

Football Manager 2023 Mobile is very much a British-made title, but it's published by Japanese titan Sega. And any chance to squeeze this comprehensive footy sim into a list is gratefully received.

You probably know FM23 from a PC or console, and if you thought it was not as exciting on mobile, you'd be wrong. Console-quality graphics, immersive gameplay, and smooth controls with a managing sim mechanic at its core merge perfectly in this creation.

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14
Shin Megami Tensei Liberation

Publisher: Sega
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG
Shin Megami Tensei Liberation Dx2

A finely judged mobile spin-off from the beloved Shin Megami series. You get the same demon-collection impetus and anime-inflected presentation as the core series but achieved with a striking sense of immediacy.

We loved every part of the game - the anime graphics, the music and audio elements, as well as the turn-based card-battles in each round. Check our Shin Megami Tensei Liberation Dx2 review to see what we've got to say about it.

Short answer? Play it! It's worth it, especially if you love JRPGs.

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15
Final Fantasy VIII

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + PSP
Find out more about Final Fantasy VIII
Final Fantasy VIII

We couldn't finish our list without mentioning at least a bunch of Final Fantasy games, correct? With a fresh lease of life for this occasionally overlooked JRPG, FF VIII Remastered presents a polished take on one of the more melodramatic entries to the series.

The graphics and controls feel a lot better than one might expect, and that's exactly why we chose FFVIII as a feature. Many players grew up with, and to give you a quick answer - no, it never gets boring! It's got massive replay value and if you haven't tried it yet, it's never too late!

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16
SaGa Scarlet Grace

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + PS Vita
Genre: RPG
Find out more about SaGa Scarlet Grace
SaGa Scarlet Grace

Co-developed by Square Enix and Studio Reel, this twelfth entry in the sprawling SaGa series comes to iOS after debuting on PS Vita in 2016. It's a lavish JRPG with a tight battle system and some unusual text-based exploration.

SaGa Scarlet Grace has a fairly unique approach in terms of graphics, but the gameplay fits right in with the other JRPGs from the developer. It's not that well-known, but it still lands a spot on our best Japanese games for Android list.

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17
Sonic CD

Publisher: Sega
Available on: iOS + Android + Windows Phone + Xperia Play + Ouya + Steam
Genre: Platform, Retro
Find out more about Sonic CD
Sonic CD

Forget Sonic 4. This port of arguably the finest Sonic title ever (though probably the least played) is all you need, with super-slick platformer gameplay and the same ambitious time-travel mechanic that made the original so special.

There's nothing we love more than good ports, controller support and genius retro Japanese games. Sonic CD features all three, and that only means one thing - it's a brilliant and timeless classic that is worth playing at least once in your lifetime. Read our Sonic CD review if you're curious about some more elements that make it stand out, to help you decide whether or not it's a game for you or not.

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18
Fire Emblem: Heroes

Publisher: Nintendo
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Strategy
Find out more about Fire Emblem: Heroes
Fire Emblem: Heroes

Considering Fire Emblem Heroes is a turn-based strategy based on one of Nintendo's deepest franchises, it works remarkably well as a bite-sized mobile experience.

In FEH (as it is often called), you have a constantly updated game, where new features make an appearance regularly. With a player base that is only growing day by day, this 2017 creation is as fresh in 2023 as it could be. In our Fire Emblem Heroes review we've mentioned how it combines all the right elements that make a free-to-play RPG great, and if you're also a fan of the genre, it's worth a try. We have composed a FEH tier list if you're unsure about the character choices.

Download Fire Emblem Heroes
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19
Kartrider Rush+

Developer: Nexon
Publisher: Nexon
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Racing
Find out more about Kartrider Rush+
Kartrider Rush+

This must be awkward for Nintendo. KartRider Rush+ from South Korean-Japanese publisher NEXON arguably plays a better, more fully-featured game of Mario Kart than Mario Kart Tour. At least, in our books, it clearly comes out on top.

It's thrilling, exciting, fun, and competitive enough to kickstart your mini-kart and urge you to kick everyone's bum out of the race. Similar to Mario Kart Tour, players have a number of collectables - karts, pets, racers, and so much more. The main difference is, you guessed it - it's KartRider Rush+.

Download Kartrider Rush+
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20
Raiden Legacy

Publisher: Dotemu
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Arcade
Find out more about Raiden Legacy
Raiden Legacy

Raiden Legacy bundles in a huge stack of brilliant 2D shmups, and Raiden Fighters Jet, in particular, is considered by many aficionados to be one of the finest examples of the genre.

This premium shooter with retro shoot 'em-up elements is a fitting title for the list, alongside some JRPGs from back in the day. Read our Raiden Legacy review to learn why we consider it a must-buy, because it indeed is a must-buy.

Download Raiden Legacy
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21
Dragon Quest Tact

Developer: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG, Strategy
Find out more about Dragon Quest Tact
Dragon Quest Tact

Ah, yes. The monster-filled strategic mush of a battler meets RPG. Dragon Quest Tact is no safe port of a traditional JRPG. Rather, Dragon Quest Tact is an impeccable tactical RPG with a laser-like mobile focus and bags of gacha.

It's an old game concept that plays as well as any new one does. In the Dragon Quest Tact review we wrote that it's a fresh breath of air from the monstrous-looking enemies, when you play as these adorable monsters. However, it's also rather... uncomfortable at times. Don't forget though - down at its core, it's still a gacha.

Download Dragon Quest Tact
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22
Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth

Publisher: Square Enix
Available on: iOS + Android + PSP
Genre: Action, RPG
Find out more about Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth
Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth

A port of one of Square Enix's almost-forgotten RPG gems, Valkyrie Profile is an oddball delight. Mixing side-scrolling platforming with deep combo-driven combat and a massive dose of Norse mythology, it's pretty unique.

We also have a review for Valkyrie Profile: Lenneth! Have you managed to read it yet? The graphics and narrative are enough to make it stand out from the rest of the Android Japanese games.

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23
Ni No Kuni: Cross Worlds

Developer: Level-5
Publisher: Netmarble
Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Multiplayer, RPG
Find out more about Ni No Kuni: Cross Worlds
Ni No Kuni: Cross Worlds

The latest game in the series is the work of Studio Ghibli for the most part, and you might know them as the producers of Princess Mononoke, Spirited Away, Tonari no Totoro and many other fantastically vivid animated films. They have joined forces with NetMarble and made this little jewel. It's an open-world RPG and they gave their best so you could feel as if you are a part of the animated film, and they did manage to some extent.

Combat is automatic, and that could turn some players away. If they don't give you the option to take complete control of your character, of course, as some players prefer to play the game manually. If you decide to give it a try, feel free to use some of our Ni No Kuni Cross Worlds codes as they will give you a nice headstart.

Download Ni No Kuni Cross Worlds
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24
Disgaea 1 Complete

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: RPG, Strategy
Find out more about Disgaea 1 Complete
Disgaea 1 Complete

Arguably one of the finest strategy RPGs of all time, we gave the first Disgaea a full 10/10 Platinum award in one of its earlier pocket gaming guises. Now, this complete (re)package comes to both iOS and Android devices, and it's still ruddy lovely.

Yes, yes, it's a little bit pricey - but is it really worth it?

The truth is... yes and no. If you would do anything to play and unfold the story in Disgaea and Laharl, Etna and Flonne in their adventure, then go for it. Otherwise, there are other titles that play just as well and are completely free to play. It's all up to you!

Download Disgaea 1 Complete
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25
Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel

Available on: iOS + Android
Genre: Card battler
Find out more about Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel
Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel

Another lovely title from Konami, Yu-Gi-Oh! Master Duel is a staple card game strategy that has amassed millions of downloads.

Players can choose between over 10,000 cards (yes, TEN THOUSAND cards - talk about a big collection) and put together a deck that can take on anyone and anything. Sort of, create the ultimate dream deck. It's got a solo mode and, of course, a PvP mode, where players can compete with each other and learn more about the lore of YGO. We consider it to be a proper choice to close our list of Japanese games for Android!

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Jon Mundy
Jon Mundy
Jon is a consummate expert in adventure, action, and sports games. Which is just as well, as in real life he's timid, lazy, and unfit. It's amazing how these things even themselves out.