The best city-building games for Android devices, ranked in order
When it comes to a quick round of gaming on an Android device, few genres are better suited for the task than city-building games. Ever since mobile g...
When it comes to a quick round of gaming on an Android device, few genres are better suited for the task than city-building games. Ever since mobile gaming exists, there have been city-building games that often provide users with relaxing gameplay experiences when they want to take a break.
Needless to say, the ever-growing medium of video games ensures that there are nearly endless possibilities for players to build cities. From futuristic science-fiction epics to idyllic island settings, there is something for everyone in the city-building scene. For Android, this particular genre has proven to be especially fruitful, with many apps selling like hotcakes over the years. While most city-building games serve as peaceful examples of minimalist gameplay, there are some that take a step further in both storytelling and decision-making, offering players a more intense, addictive experience.
6 The Simpsons: Tapped Out Provides A Fun, Homer-Focused City Building Experience
The Simpsons ventured into the realm of freemium gaming with this popular release in 2013. Like many of the beloved episodes of the long-running series, the game's storyline begins with Homer Simpson neglecting his work duties.
This time, the laziness of the family patriarch leads to a total nuclear meltdown and the complete destruction of Springfield. For Homer fans, the following game is a city-building dream as players take control of the iconic animated protagonist and gradually rebuild the abandoned ghost town. Under the wise guidance of Lisa, Homer's construction efforts bring back more and more of the countless colorful characters from the series into the town. The appeal of this city-building game is obvious for Simpsons lovers. For everyone else, it offers an effective narrative pace and world-building, providing addictive fun in city construction with a good dose of humor along the way.
5 Tropical Resort Story Is A Highly Detailed, Island-Developing Game
The title should give players a good idea of what they're getting into with this game. With the task of building an ideal tropical island resort, players are likely to be impressed by the amount of detail and development to explore.
From the ground up, players must develop everything, starting from the island itself to travel packages that will appeal to tourists the most. Interestingly, players can also dive into the surrounding oceans and engage in activities such as plant cultivation and fishing there. The comprehensive environmental development, along with vibrant, captivating graphics and simple gameplay mechanics, make this one of the most aesthetically appealing and addictive city-building games available today. The relaxed nature of the gameplay can be frustrating for players seeking a challenge, but it is also a significant reason why users who want to unwind for a brief moment will find it so appealing.
4 Terra Nil Reverses The City Building Format To Impressive Effect
This captivating deconstruction of the city-building game genre is ironically one of the best games the genre has seen so far. Instead of constructing cities, players have the challenging task of rebuilding ecosystems.
In a future where environmental pollution and overdevelopment have resulted in the world being covered in wasteland, it's up to the player to turn things around. With the help of futuristic, ecosystem-rebuilding technology, players have the ability to restore everything from forests to wetlands. Even better, the game offers an "Appreciate Mode" where successful players can sit back and enjoy the fruits of their labor. With a great, soothing soundtrack and an overall atmosphere, Terra Nil's green tranquility is perfect for players looking to unwind and relax for a while. The diverse landscapes provide variety and offer players intellectual stimulation as they find the best ways to harmonize their new ecosystem with the land. Overall, this imaginative approach to the genre is a must-play for fans of building games.
3 Townscaper Remains A Standard Bearer In City Building Fun
The popular indie city builder made its move to mobile gaming in October 2021. With a relaxed approach to city development, the game lacks specific goals or missions and instead encourages players to experiment with their creativity.
The simple gameplay mechanics further enhance its accessible nature, making it a beginner-friendly game that is perfect for busy players seeking a quick break. The wide variety of vibrant colors, curious shapes, and the floating aesthetics of the cities provide a relaxed and enjoyable experience where users can shape their preferred settlements. Although the absence of features such as a diverse selection of building designs and tools may take some getting used to, the gentle gameplay and atmosphere of Townscaper still make it one of the most pleasant city-building games on the market.
2 Paragon Pioneers Is A Peaceful, Versatile Builder
The neat setting of Paragon Pioneers allows players to take on the management of a variety of small islands that naturally require some building skills. A relaxing piece of uncomplicated gameplay, this city builder is surprisingly extensive.
With over 100 buildings, the game can captivate the eye with its peculiar surreal and unconventional aesthetics, making its mark amidst the multitude of similar games in the longstanding genre. To the delight of more impatient players, Paragon Pioneers contains no advertisements or premium currencies. On the other hand, the game is also suitable for players seeking a more relaxed gaming experience, as there are no time constraints. With a refreshing, vacation-like setting and a tranquil tone and pace, this is the perfect city builder for players who want to sit back, relax, and not invest too much time to make the most out of their Android gaming experiences.
1 Frozen City Takes The City-Building Genre In A Dark Sci-FI Direction
Fans of films like Snowpiercer will likely have a lot of fun with the surprisingly dark new ice age apocalypse setting of this game. As one of the more challenging city-building games on Android, Frozen City is packed with difficult, game-changing decisions that players must navigate.
For fans of strategy games, Frozen City is a perfect entry into the city-building genre, challenging players to make difficult decisions in an unpredictable and dangerous world. The slow and often rewarding nature of the gameplay structure may be somewhat off-putting for those seeking faster thrills, but the lore and long-term storytelling of the game are a strength that players looking for something special in their city-building games are likely to appreciate. Overall, the imaginative range of Frozen City and the unexpectedly thrilling situations it presents provide a captivating glimpse into the potential future of city-building games, despite some cumbersome mechanics and issues with construction commands.