Stay Connected and Entertained: Top 5 Best Mobile Games to Play with Friends While Social Distancing

With the ongoing pandemic, social distancing has become the new norm for many of us. Staying indoors can be a bit monotonous, especially when we miss spending time with our friends. Thankfully, technology offers us various ways to stay connected and entertained.

One such way is through mobile games that we can enjoy with our friends, even when we are miles apart. In this article, we will explore the top 5 best mobile games to play with friends while social distancing. So, buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of virtual fun and camaraderie!

1. Among Us

Unmask the Impostor and Keep Your Spaceship Safe

Among Us, developed by InnerSloth, has taken the gaming world by storm, becoming one of the most popular online multiplayer games in recent times. Set in a space-themed setting, this game revolves around a group of Crewmates trying to identify the Impostor(s) among them while completing tasks around the spaceship. If the Crewmates successfully identify and vote off the Impostor(s), they win. On the other hand, the Impostor(s) need to eliminate the Crewmates without getting caught to emerge victorious.

Among Us can be played with 4 to 10 players, making it an ideal game to play with a large group of friends. Communication and deception play crucial roles in this game, as players need to discuss and debate to identify the Impostor(s). The game is available on Android, iOS, and PC platforms.

Pros:

• Easy to learn and play, making it accessible for players of all ages.
• Supports cross-platform play.
• Customizable game settings to adjust the game's difficulty and playstyle.
• Free to play on mobile devices (with occasional ads).
• Frequent updates bring new content and improvements.

Cons:

• Random matches can have a toxic environment.
• Voice chat is not available in-game (players often use external apps like Discord for voice communication).
• Occasional server issues due to high demand.

2. Words with Friends 2

Challenge Your Vocabulary and Create the Best Words

Words with Friends 2, developed by Zynga, is a competitive and engaging word game that can be enjoyed with friends and family. Similar to the classic board game Scrabble, players take turns to create words on the game board using letter tiles. The aim is to score as many points as possible by forming high-scoring words and utilizing bonus spaces on the board. The game ends when all tiles are used, and the player with the highest score wins.

This game features various game modes, including classic one-on-one matches, team-based Lightning Rounds, and Solo Challenges against computer-controlled opponents. Additionally, the game offers a social hub where players can chat, track their progress, and compare their performance with friends. Words with Friends 2 is available on Android and iOS platforms.

Pros:

• Engaging and educational gameplay that helps improve vocabulary and language skills.
• Various game modes cater to different playstyles and preferences.
• Asynchronous gameplay allows players to take their turns at their convenience.
• Free to play with optional in-app purchases.
• Regular events and challenges keep the game fresh and exciting.

Cons:

• Occasional ads can be intrusive.
• Some players may find the gameplay too slow-paced.
• Matchmaking can sometimes be unbalanced, leading to uneven matches.

3. Mario Kart Tour

Race with Your Friends in Iconic Mario Kart Tracks

Mario Kart Tour, developed by Nintendo, brings the beloved Mario Kart series to mobile devices, allowing players to race with their favorite characters and karts on iconic tracks from the franchise. The game features intuitive touch controls, making it easy for players to drift, boost, and use items to outmaneuver their opponents.

Players can race against their friends in multiplayer mode, which supports up to 8 players. The game also features a single-player mode with various cups and challenges. Mario Kart Tour is available on Android and iOS platforms.

Pros:

• Fun and fast-paced racing gameplay with a nostalgic charm.
• Intuitive touch controls suitable for players of all ages.
• Wide variety of characters, karts, gliders, and tracks to unlock and customize.
• Regular tour events introduce new content and challenges.
• Free to play with optional in-app purchases.

Cons:

• Gacha system for unlocking content may not appeal to everyone.
• Internet connection is required to play, even in single-player mode.
• Some players may find the touch controls less precise compared to traditional controllers.

4. Brawl Stars

Team up and Battle in Fast-Paced Multiplayer Matches

Brawl Stars, developed by Supercell, is an action-packed multiplayer game featuring a variety of game modes, customizable characters (called Brawlers), and colorful visuals. Players can team up with friends or play solo in various game modes such as Gem Grab, Showdown, Brawl Ball, and Bounty, each offering unique gameplay and objectives.

The game also features Club and Friends systems, allowing players to socialize, strategize, and compete together. Brawl Stars is available on Android and iOS platforms.

Pros:

• Fast-paced and engaging gameplay suitable for short play sessions.
• Wide variety of game modes and Brawlers catering to different playstyles and strategies.
• Regular events, challenges, and updates keep the game fresh and exciting.
• Free to play with optional in-app purchases.
• Smooth and responsive controls optimized for mobile devices.

Cons:

• Progression can be slow without spending real money.
• Matchmaking can sometimes be unbalanced, leading to uneven matches.
• Some players may find the game repetitive over time.

5. Pokémon GO

Catch, Battle, and Trade Pokémon in the Real World

Pokémon GO, developed by Niantic, is an augmented reality (AR) game that allows players to catch, battle, and trade Pokémon in the real world. The game uses GPS technology to spawn Pokémon on the player's map, which can be caught by physically moving around their environment. Pokémon GO also features gyms and PokéStops, where players can battle and collect items, respectively.

Players can add friends, send gifts, and trade Pokémon with each other. The game also offers various cooperative activities such as raid battles and research tasks. Pokémon GO is available on Android and iOS platforms.

Pros:

• Unique and immersive AR gameplay that encourages physical activity and exploration.
• Wide variety of Pokémon to catch, evolve, and power up.
• Regular events, updates, and new content keep the game fresh and engaging.
• Cooperative gameplay promotes social interaction and teamwork.
• Free to play with optional in-app purchases.

Cons:

• Requires a constant internet connection and GPS access.
• Some gameplay features may not be accessible in rural areas with fewer points of interest.
• Battery life can be significantly impacted due to the game's GPS and AR features.
• Some players may find the gameplay repetitive over time.

In conclusion, these are the top 5 best mobile games to play with friends while social distancing. Each game offers unique gameplay, features, and social interactions that cater to different preferences and playstyles. So, pick your favorite game, invite your friends, and enjoy the virtual bonding experience during these challenging times!