Best Mobile Games for Gamers on a Budget

Mobile gaming has become a popular way to enjoy pragmatic play  interactive entertainment, thanks to the rise of smartphones and affordable data plans. However, not all mobile games are budget-friendly, as many rely on in-app purchases and paid content to enhance the experience. Fortunately, there are plenty of excellent mobile games that offer great gameplay without breaking the bank. Whether you’re looking for puzzle games, strategy titles, or RPGs, there are free or low-cost mobile games that provide hours of entertainment without the need for expensive add-ons.

In this article, we’ll explore the best mobile games for gamers on a budget, focusing on games that either have no upfront costs or offer a great deal of content for a low price.

1. Among Us

Cost: Free (with in-app purchases)
Platform: iOS, Android

Among Us became a global phenomenon during 2020 and remains one of the best mobile games for budget-conscious players. This multiplayer game tasks you with working alongside or against other players on a spaceship. You can either be a crewmate who completes tasks to keep the ship running or an imposter who must sabotage and eliminate the crew without being caught.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
The game is completely free to play, with cosmetic items and skins available for purchase if desired, but they don’t impact gameplay. Its fun and engaging nature, especially when played with friends, makes it a top choice for gamers who don’t want to spend much.

2. Genshin Impact

Cost: Free (with in-app purchases)
Platform: iOS, Android

Genshin Impact is a free-to-play, open-world action RPG with a beautiful anime-inspired art style. Set in the fantasy world of Teyvat, players can explore vast landscapes, complete quests, battle enemies, and unlock characters with unique abilities. The game has been praised for its high production values and has drawn comparisons to games like The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
Though Genshin Impact includes in-app purchases through a “gacha” system to unlock characters and weapons, you can enjoy hours of content without spending any money. The base game offers a massive open world to explore and frequent updates with new areas and storylines.

3. Brawl Stars

Cost: Free (with in-app purchases)
Platform: iOS, Android

Brawl Stars is a fast-paced multiplayer game from Supercell, the creators of Clash of Clans and Clash Royale. The game combines elements of MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) and hero-shooter genres, with various modes such as gem-grabbing, bounty hunting, and showdown. Players can unlock different “Brawlers” with unique abilities and team up with friends to compete in matches.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
Although there are optional in-game purchases, all characters can be unlocked through gameplay, and spending money is not required to progress or compete. Regular updates and events keep the game fresh and exciting for players who want free-to-play action.

4. Alto’s Odyssey

Cost: Free on Android, $4.99 on iOS
Platform: iOS, Android

Alto’s Odyssey is a beautiful endless runner game set in a serene desert landscape. Players guide Alto, a sandboarder, through stunning environments, performing tricks and avoiding obstacles. The game is highly praised for its minimalist design, smooth controls, and calming soundtrack.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
While the iOS version requires an upfront purchase, the Android version is free to play, with ads supporting the free experience. For players seeking a relaxing, visually stunning game without spending much, Alto’s Odyssey is a top choice. There are no pay-to-win mechanics, and players can enjoy the game without any additional spending.

5. Hearthstone

Cost: Free (with in-app purchases)
Platform: iOS, Android

Blizzard’s Hearthstone is a collectible card game (CCG) where players build decks and engage in strategic turn-based battles. Featuring characters and lore from the World of Warcraft universe, the game is easy to pick up but offers deep strategy for those who want to master it.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
While card packs can be purchased, Blizzard provides ample opportunities to earn cards through gameplay. Players can compete in ranked or casual matches, as well as special modes like Arena or Battlegrounds, without spending a dime. Hearthstone is perfect for players who enjoy strategy and CCGs but don’t want to invest heavily in buying new cards.

6. PUBG Mobile

Cost: Free (with in-app purchases)
Platform: iOS, Android

PUBG Mobile is a battle royale game where players compete to be the last one standing in a large-scale map. Starting with nothing, players scavenge for weapons and equipment, and the map gradually shrinks, forcing players into more intense confrontations. With realistic graphics and strategic gameplay, PUBG Mobile is one of the most popular free-to-play mobile games available.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
The game is free to play, with optional cosmetic purchases available. While PUBG Mobile offers in-game currency and skins for purchase, these are purely cosmetic and don’t affect the competitive balance. Players can enjoy the full battle royale experience without spending any money.

7. Pokémon GO

Cost: Free (with in-app purchases)
Platform: iOS, Android

Pokémon GO took the world by storm with its augmented reality (AR) gameplay, allowing players to catch Pokémon in the real world using their mobile phones. Players can explore their surroundings, battle in gyms, participate in raids, and complete challenges to become a Pokémon Master.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
The game is completely free to play, and while there are optional in-app purchases for items like Poké Balls and raid passes, players can earn many items through gameplay and local PokéStops. The social and outdoor elements make it unique and engaging without requiring much financial investment.

8. Plague Inc.

Cost: $0.99 (with in-app purchases)
Platform: iOS, Android

In Plague Inc., players are tasked with evolving and spreading a deadly pathogen to wipe out humanity. The game combines strategy and simulation as players choose how to mutate their disease, navigate world responses, and balance contagion with lethality.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
At just $0.99, Plague Inc. is an affordable game with plenty of depth and replayability. Though there are optional expansions and in-app purchases, the base game offers hours of engaging content for a minimal price, making it perfect for budget-conscious gamers who enjoy strategy games.

9. Shadow Fight 3

Cost: Free (with in-app purchases)
Platform: iOS, Android

Shadow Fight 3 is a fighting game that blends martial arts with a compelling storyline and RPG elements. Players can choose from different combat styles, unlock new weapons, and participate in battles across a variety of modes.

Why It’s Great for Budget Gamers:
Though the game features in-app purchases for additional gear and customization, players can enjoy the game without spending money. The combat mechanics are satisfying, and the storyline offers a rewarding experience for free-to-play gamers.

Conclusion

The mobile gaming market is filled with options for gamers on a budget, offering everything from strategic card games to action-packed battle royales and relaxing puzzle adventures. Whether you’re looking for a completely free experience or willing to spend a few dollars, there’s a wealth of high-quality mobile games available that won’t require a significant financial investment.

By choosing wisely and avoiding unnecessary in-app purchases, you can enjoy some of the best mobile games without breaking the bank. From Among Us to Genshin Impact, these budget-friendly games deliver top-tier entertainment without the need for a hefty price tag.