1. Angry Birds
The amazingly popular iOS game moved to Android a while ago, earning over two million downloads during its first weekend of availability.
The Android version is free, unlike the Apple release, with maker Rovio opting to stick a few adverts on it rather than charge an upfront fee. The result is a massive and very challenging physics puzzler that’s incredibly polished and professional. For free. It defies all the laws of modern retail.
This futuristic MMORPG is easy to get in to: The player will easily acclimate to the combat, although the graphic style is not very colorful and friendly. Furthermore, it’s easy to join missions with random people, or to form guilds in which regular groups of players work together to conquer missions. This game is also wonderfully cross-platform — team up with players on Android, iOS and the Chrome web browser.
3. Newton
Released a few months back in beta form, Newton is a maths/physics challenge that has you lining up shots at a target – but having to contend with the laws of nature, in the form of pushers, pullers, benders (no laughing), mirrors and traps, all deflecting your shot from its target.
The developer is still adding levels to it at the moment, so one day Newtonmight be finished and might cost money. But for now it’s free and a great indie creation.
4. Plants Vs. Zombies
PopCap brought what might be its best game to Android earlier in 2011. This strategy game, which combines elements of castle defense and tower defense, is brilliant for its excellent progression. The game steadily introduces new elements in a way that never feels overly complex, so even when dozens of defenses are available in a level, it never feels overwhelming. It’s goofy fun, accessible for even casual users!
5. Reckless Getaway
Much of this game’s madcap fun comes from its potential destruction, caused while racing from the police. Skillful driving and selective car ramming, along with smart deploying of powerups is key, unless you’re playing in the Wreckless mode, where driving a giant, nigh-indestructible semi is just plain fun!