Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Some links on this page are affiliate links: if you buy through them we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.

This is a historical August 2023 guide to ten notable Android action games, based on the selection published by Android Headlines on August 25, 2023. “Action” is used broadly here: direct combat, aiming, platform fighting and real-time decisions are central, while Among Us and Black Desert Mobile are included as action-adjacent multiplayer and MMORPG picks. Prices, ratings, download sizes and live-service features are snapshots from that date, not guarantees for 2026. Store region, device, Android version and subsequent updates can change availability and performance.

Quick picks

Game Format August 2023 price In-app purchases Online status in the 2023 listing Best fit Main drawback
Call of Duty: Mobile Competitive FPS Free download Yes Online competitive and cooperative modes Feature-rich mobile shooting Live-service spending and competition
Dead Cells Roguelike metroidvania $8.99 No Not stated Premium replayability Deliberately difficult runs
Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night Metroidvania $9.99 No Not stated Classic exploration Premium, larger download
Brawlhalla Platform fighter Free download Yes Online; cross-play, up to eight players Competitive fighting High skill ceiling
Pascal’s Wager Soulslike action RPG $6.99 Yes; optional DLC noted Not stated Boss-focused challenge Demanding combat
PUBG MOBILE Battle royale shooter Free download Yes Online squad and large-match play Battle royale Live-service dependence
Dragon Ball Legends Anime action/RPG battler Free download Yes Online competitive and progression systems Dragon Ball character battles Collection-driven monetization
Black Desert Mobile Action MMORPG Free download Yes Persistent online world with PvP and PvE Long-term MMO play Extensive progression and recurring events
Mega Man X Dive Platform action/RPG Free download Yes Co-op and online features listed Arcade-style anime action Noticeable microtransactions
Among Us Social deduction Free download Yes Online or local Wi-Fi; four to ten players listed Group/social sessions Not conventional action combat

The three premium prices above were U.S.-store figures listed in August 2023. Ratings and sizes below were also reported at that time and can change.

1. Call of Duty: Mobile — best overall competitive shooter

What you play

This free-to-play FPS combines multiple competitive and cooperative modes, familiar maps and weapons, Gunsmith customization and battle-pass progression. It is the broadest choice if you want one Android shooter with several ways to play.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Cost and monetization

The August 2023 listing showed a free download with in-app purchases. It described loot-crate-style rewards alongside content that can be earned through regular play and the battle-pass system. That makes the game playable without spending, but recurring events and cosmetic or progression purchases are part of its design.

#1 Best Overall
Yojaro 4Pack Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount, Silicon Adhesive Smartphones Stand Sticky, Hands-Free Phone Accessories Holder for Selfies and Videos (Black & White & Translucent & Light Pink)
  • 【Strong Adsorption】The inspiration of the silicone phone suction case comes from the adhesive force of the octopus. Each suction cup phone mount is 3.15 inches long and 2.17 inches wide, with 24 independent suction cups providing a stronger and more stable suction force, so you don't have to worry about your phone falling during use.
  • 【Back of Phone Suction Grip】Remove the adhesive film on the phone suction cup and stick it on the phone case. You can then fix the phone on any smooth surface, which is very convenient. (The phone suction cup cannot be removed and reused after being attached to the phone case. It is recommended to attach it to a regular phone case, not a valuable one.)
  • 【Widely Used】Our non-slip silicone phone sticky grip mount attaches to almost any flat phone case and make it compatible with common mobile phones such as iPhone and Android.You can shoot, watch videos or video calls in the kitchen, gym, dance studio, bathroom and other places.
  • 【Capture the Wonderful Picture】Whether you are a TikTok creator or just like to share videos and photos, this phone suction cup can help you hands-free capture wonderful videos and photos for sharing with friends.
  • 【Note】You can fix the phone suction cup on a smooth surface such as a mirror or glass. If necessary, wipe the suction cup with a damp cloth to obtain stronger suction. Before releasing your hand, make sure the phone is firmly fixed. (Not applicable to rough walls, wooden surfaces, and other uneven surfaces)

Who should choose it

Choose it for short or medium online matches, loadout experimentation and a high competitive ceiling. Avoid it if you want a finite, offline campaign or dislike live-service schedules and randomized-reward systems. The source listed a 4.3/5 Google Play rating; the rating and required data can differ by region and update.

2. Dead Cells — best premium game for replayability

What you play

Dead Cells combines side-scrolling metroidvania exploration with roguelike runs. You learn enemy patterns, assemble weapons and abilities, and begin a new run after death. Its repeated attempts are the point rather than a sign that a campaign has been lost.

Cost and difficulty

The August 2023 price was $8.99 with no in-app purchases listed, and the reported download was approximately 607 MB. Combat is intentionally demanding. Pick it if you value mastery and replayability; avoid it if you want relaxed progress, a guaranteed linear route or low-friction five-minute play.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

3. Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night — best classic exploration action game

What you play

This side-scrolling metroidvania from former Castlevania producer Koji Igarashi emphasizes exploration, leveling, equipment and ability collection. The August 2023 selection highlighted touch controls as well developed, an editorial assessment rather than a universal performance guarantee.

Rank #2
Apple EarPods Headphones with USB-C Plug, Wired Ear Buds with Built-in Remote to Control Music, Phone Calls, and Volume
  • SUPERIOR COMFORT — Unlike traditional circular ear buds, the design of EarPods is defined by the geometry of the ear. Which makes them more comfortable for more people than any other ear bud–style headphones.
  • HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO — The speakers inside EarPods have been engineered to maximize sound output and minimize sound loss, which means you get high-quality audio.
  • BUILT-IN REMOTE — EarPods with USB-C plug also include a built-in remote that lets you adjust the volume, control the playback of music and video, and answer or end calls with a pinch of the cord.
  • COMPATIBILITY — Works with all devices that have a USB-C port.
  • INTEGRATED MICROPHONE — A built-in microphone precisely captures your voice while you’re on the phone, taking a FaceTime call, or summoning Siri — so you’re always heard loud and clear.

Cost and fit

It was listed at $9.99 with no in-app purchases and an approximately 1.5 GB download. Choose it for a more traditional, substantial single-player adventure. Avoid it if you want free multiplayer, a tiny install or a game designed around very short sessions. Whether it works offline, and how well it runs, depends on the device and store version; the listing did not establish a universal offline guarantee.

4. Brawlhalla — best platform fighter

What you play

Brawlhalla is a free-to-play platform fighter built around knockouts, movement and weapon matchups. The 2023 listing included cross-play with PC and consoles, a training room and matches of up to eight players.

Cost and audience

Optional purchases support the free download. It is an approachable entry point with a very high competitive ceiling, making it good for quick matches or serious practice. Avoid it if you want a solo story campaign or dislike online matchmaking. Cross-play, player limits and available modes may have changed after August 2023.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

5. Pascal’s Wager — best Soulslike action RPG

What you play

This premium action RPG offers several playable characters, exploration and boss battles shaped by Soulslike timing and punishment. It expects you to observe enemies and find your route rather than explain every step.

Rank #3
PopSockets Adhesive Phone Grip, Holder- Black
  • Secure Hold: Our PopSockets adhesive phone grip gives your cell phone a secure, comfortable hold in hand to help prevent drops while texting, taking photos, or scrolling on the go. Designed to stick firmly to most phone cases and devices.
  • Hands-Free Made Easy: Easily turn your PopSocket into a phone stand to prop up your phone anywhere — perfect for watching videos, video calls, or following recipes. A must-have phone holder that keeps your device secure and ready for anything.
  • Compatibility: Works with all phones, tablets, and Kindles. Sticks best to smooth, hard plastic cases and may not adhere to silicone or textured cases. Easily swap your PopTop to change up your style — just close the grip, press down, twist 90°, and snap on a new top.
  • Black PopSockets: Simple, refined, and endlessly versatile — a timeless essential for any phone.
  • PopSockets Ecosystem: Mix and match your favorite PopSockets products — from grips and wallets to cases and mounts — all designed to work together seamlessly.

Cost and fit

The August 2023 listing showed $6.99, with in-app purchases and optional DLC noted, and an approximately 71 MB initial size. Choose it for challenging, console-style combat on a phone. Avoid it if you want a forgiving free game, quick onboarding or evidence that an older device will maintain stable performance; no universal hardware guidance was supplied.

6. PUBG MOBILE — best battle royale

What you play

PUBG MOBILE centers on large online battle-royale matches, including squad play, with recurring events and collaborations. The appeal is positioning, looting, survival and teamwork rather than a fixed story campaign.

Cost and commitment

It was free to download with in-app purchases. The source listed a 4.1/5 Google Play rating, but both ratings and the game’s device-dependent size are volatile. Choose it for squad competition and long-term seasonal content. Avoid it if you need offline play, a finite campaign or minimal live-service pressure.

Free tools Windows power users keep installed

One-click scans. No signup required.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

7. Dragon Ball Legends — best anime character battler

What you play

This free-to-play action/RPG battler uses real-time character fights, an original story and recognizable Dragon Ball characters. RPG progression and collection systems sit alongside the combat.

Rank #4
Sale
360° Rotating Stainless Steel Phone Tether Tab (Silvery 3-Pack) - Universal for iPhone & Other Phones (Fits Wristbands/Necklaces/Crossbody Straps)
  • [360 ° Flexible Rotation Design] Comes with a rotatable lanyard ring that supports 360 ° free rotation, effectively solving the problem of twisted and tangled lanyards
  • [Wide compatibility] The ultra-thin 0.02-inch design does not block the charging port at all, and both wired and wireless charging can be used directly without removing the pad. Compatible with most smartphones such as iPhone, compatible with various wristbands, lanyards, crossbody straps, and keychains
  • [Durable and Portable Material] Premium rust-resistant stainless steel material with good flexibility, which not only avoids scratching the phone case, but also has excellent anti rust and anti fading performance
  • [Multi scenario Practical] Paired with a lanyard or wristband, hands-free use can be achieved. The phone is within reach and not easily dropped, ideal for daily commuting and outdoor activities. Suitable for full coverage phone cases, does not support half coverage phone cases
  • [Quality Service] If you find any damage or other issues with the product upon receipt, please contact us immediately. We will handle it quickly

Monetization and audience

The August 2023 entry listed in-app purchases, an approximately 110 MB size and a 4.4/5 rating. It suits fans who want ongoing character collection and competitive battles. Avoid it if you do not enjoy gacha-like collection systems, recurring events or online progression. The rating and available characters are date- and region-sensitive.

8. Black Desert Mobile — best persistent online world

What you play

This action MMORPG offers classes, quests, dungeons, raids, PvP, PvE and a persistent world. It is less about a short, self-contained campaign and more about building a character over time.

Cost and commitment

The August 2023 listing showed a free download with in-app purchases and an approximately 86 MB initial size, plus a 4.1/5 rating. Choose it if you want ongoing MMO systems and can commit storage, connectivity and time. Avoid it if you want a complete offline game, a small total install or no recurring events and purchases. The initial store size does not represent all later data.

What’s actually slowing this PC down?

Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Support on Ko-Fi

9. Mega Man X Dive — best arcade-style anime action

What you play

Mega Man X Dive blends platform action with RPG progression, combo attacks, boss challenges, recognizable series elements and co-op features. The 2023 source praised its touch controls, but that remains an editorial judgment and may not match every device.

Best Value
Anteel 2 Pack Silicone Suction Cup Phone Case Mount Double Sided, Hands-Free Silicon Phone Grip with Higher Suction Power for Selfies and Videos, Non Slip Phone Accessories (LightPink&White)
  • 【PKYAA Double Sided Silicone Suction Phone Case Mount】PKYAA With Double Sided 40 Strong and Reliable individual suction cups, PKYAA provides a thicken and upgraded universal silicon suction mount for your phone.
  • 【Friendly to Content Creators】If you are a content creator or an online influencer, you can create videos anywhere with this suction mount completely hands free with this silicone cell phone mount for cases.
  • 【HANDS-FREE & Adhere to Mirrors】This Double Sided silicone suction phone case mount allows you to stick your phone to the mirror easily. No longer holding your phone in one hand to watch video tutorials while making up.
  • 【Strong Grip on the Smooth Surface】You can easily hang your phone anywhere with a smooth surface. All you do is you clean off your phone and smooth surface. It is STURDY and it not only sticks to mirrors, it also sticks to windows, it sticks to refrigerators, tiles and other clean, flat surfaces.
  • 【Press Down Firmly Every 30 Minutes】Use your palm or fingers to press the phone down firmly and check it's secure before letting go. Apply even pressure for a few seconds to allow the suction cup to adhere properly. To maintain the grip and prevent accidental falls, it's a good practice to periodically reapply pressure to the suction cup.

Cost and caution

It was free to download, listed at approximately 103 MB, with a 4.3/5 rating and in-app purchases. Microtransactions were specifically described as noticeable. Choose it for quick anime-styled action and franchise nostalgia; avoid it if you want a one-time purchase with no collection-driven spending.

10. Among Us — best social multiplayer pick

Why it is here

Among Us is social deduction first, not a conventional combat game. Players complete tasks, identify impostors and use discussion, deception and voting to survive. The August 2023 listing described online and local Wi-Fi sessions for four to ten players.

Cost and fit

The download was free with in-app purchases and an approximately 124 MB size. Choose it for groups, family play and short social sessions. Avoid it if you specifically want reflex-based fighting, shooting or a solo action campaign. Player limits, modes and regional availability can change in a live service.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.

Choose by play style

  • Free competitive shooter: Call of Duty: Mobile.
  • Battle royale squads: PUBG MOBILE.
  • Premium replayability: Dead Cells.
  • Classic metroidvania exploration: Bloodstained: Ritual of the Night.
  • Hard action-RPG combat: Pascal’s Wager.
  • Platform fighting and cross-play: Brawlhalla.
  • Anime character combat: Dragon Ball Legends or Mega Man X Dive.
  • Persistent MMO progression: Black Desert Mobile.
  • Group social play: Among Us.

Free-to-play versus premium

Free downloads

Call of Duty: Mobile, Mega Man X Dive, Among Us, Dragon Ball Legends, Brawlhalla, PUBG MOBILE and Black Desert Mobile were listed as free downloads with in-app purchases. “Free” does not mean identical spending pressure: Mega Man X Dive was singled out for noticeable microtransactions, while the shooter and MMO entries use recurring events, progression and competitive systems.

Paid downloads

Bloodstained ($9.99), Dead Cells ($8.99) and Pascal’s Wager ($6.99) were the historical August 2023 prices. Pascal’s Wager also had optional DLC noted. These are not current price promises; check the Google Play listing for your country before buying.

Before installing

  • Check the current Google Play page for supported devices, Android version, regional availability, price and age rating.
  • Treat the listed download size as an initial estimate. Live-service games commonly download additional maps, voice files and updates after installation.
  • Expect network access for the central experiences in Call of Duty: Mobile, PUBG MOBILE, Brawlhalla, Dragon Ball Legends, Black Desert Mobile and Among Us. The 2023 source did not establish a universal offline guarantee for the premium games.
  • Use a controller only if the current store version and device support it; the August 2023 article did not provide a complete controller-compatibility matrix.
  • Set purchase authentication and parental controls before handing a device to a child, especially for free-to-play games with recurring or randomized offers.

Bottom line

For most Android players choosing from this August 2023 snapshot, start with Call of Duty: Mobile for a broad free shooter, Dead Cells for premium replayable combat, Bloodstained for traditional exploration, Pascal’s Wager for Soulslike difficulty, and Brawlhalla for competitive fighting. Choose the remaining titles when their specific social, anime, battle-royale or MMO format is what you actually want.

Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.

Special offer. See more information about Outbyte and uninstall instructions. Please review EULA and Privacy policy.