In today’s digital world, smartphones and tablets are part of everyday life, even for kids. Whether you’re a parent, guardian, or teacher looking for age-appropriate entertainment, there are plenty of mobile games for kids that are not only fun but also educational, imaginative, and free or low-cost.
From learning ABCs to competitive multiplayer action, here are the 9 best mobile games for kids, carefully grouped by age and available on both iOS (Apple App Store) and Google Play Store.
Best Mobile Games for Kids Ages 3–6: Learning Through Play
1. ABC Kids – Tracing & Phonics
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free, No Ads
Category: Educational, Preschool
This colourful preschool phonics app teaches toddlers how to recognise, trace, and pronounce letters through fun games and positive reinforcement.
Why it’s great:
- Simple, intuitive tracing interface
- Encouraging voice prompts
- No ads or in-app purchases
- Helps build foundational literacy skills
2. PBS Kids Games
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free
Category: Educational, Puzzle, Creative
Featuring dozens of mini-games with beloved characters from PBS shows like Arthur, Curious George, and Wild Kratts, this app offers a fun mix of learning and play.
Why it’s great:
- Includes games on reading, math, and creativity
- Safe environment with no subscriptions
- Easy navigation for small hands
Best Mobile Games for Kids Ages 7–13: Fun, Fast & Imaginative
3. Toca Boca World (Toca Life World)
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free base game, optional in-app purchases
Category: Simulation, Creative Play
Toca Life World is an open-world sandbox where kids create stories using characters, locations, and props. Think of it as a digital dollhouse with no rules.
Why it’s great:
- Encourages creativity and storytelling
- No time limits or pressure
- Frequent content updates
4. Bloons Tower Defence
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free trial; Full version ~₦3,170 (one-time purchase)
Category: Strategy, Puzzle
This vibrant tower defence game challenges players to stop waves of “bloons” using monkey towers, each with unique weapons and powers.
Why it’s great:
- Boosts logical thinking and planning
- Colourful graphics and engaging gameplay
- No internet required for single-player
5. Temple Run
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free
Category: Endless Runner, Action
Temple Run is a classic endless runner that remains wildly popular for its fast-paced gameplay and reflex-based challenges.
Why it’s great:
- Easy controls: swipe to jump, slide, and turn
- Great for improving focus and coordination
- Still fun for today’s Gen Alpha
Best Mobile Games for Kids Ages 13–19: Strategy, Social Play & Action
6. Clash Royale
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free with in-app purchases
Category: Strategy, Real-Time Battle
Combining card collecting and tower defence, Clash Royale is a top pick for teens who enjoy quick, competitive multiplayer matches.
Why it’s great:
- Real-time online battles
- Encourages strategic thinking
- Seasonal events and tournaments
7. Free Fire
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free
Category: Battle Royale, Action
Popular in Nigeria and India, Free Fire is a 10-minute battle royale game where 50 players compete to survive on a shrinking island.
Why it’s great:
- Quick matches, perfect for mobile play
- Runs smoothly on most devices
- Strong community and frequent updates
8. Among Us
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free
Category: Social Deduction, Multiplayer
Set in a sci-fi spaceship, Among Us is the ultimate whodunit game for teens. One or more players are imposters trying to sabotage the crew without getting caught.
Why it’s great:
- Boosts teamwork and critical thinking
- Great for playing with friends
- Fun, suspenseful, and always different
9. Call of Duty: Mobile
Platform: iOS & Google Play
Price: Free with in-app purchases
Category: Shooter, Action, Multiplayer
This mobile version of the iconic franchise delivers console-quality graphics, customizable weapons, and a variety of modes from battle royale to zombies.
Why it’s great:
- High-quality visuals and sound
- Deep progression system
- Offers both quick matches and full battles
Final Thoughts
Whether your child is just learning to trace letters or competing in fast-paced online matches, these are some of the best mobile games for kids in 2025. They’re entertaining, safe, and support a range of interests—from creativity and education to strategy and social play.
Pro Tip: Always review game content and in-app purchase settings before letting your child play, especially for older age groups.
