The best augmented reality games for Android
Augmented reality (AR) games connect the real world with the virtual one. They use the camera and GPS to incorporate real-world elements into gameplay. As a result, they also benefit froma powerful Android smartphone.
Some combine worlds better than others, so we’ve compiled a list of the best augmented reality games on the Google Play Store, not to be confused with thebest AR games and appsthat focus on the wonderful art of photography. All the games on this list are free-to-play, but some offer premium features.
Learn which smartphones are compatible with ARCore
4Cosmic Frontline AR
Much like Angry Birds AR, Cosmic Frontline AR takes advantage of your living space to construct its levels. It revolves around building your spaceship fleet to take control over other planets. Choose your planet, and then select a nearby planet to send your troops.
Ships will battle it out automatically and subsequently take the planet under your control. Once you take control of all available planets, you win and move on to the next level. Though challenging at times, Cosmic Frontline AR is more of a relaxing experience. It requires little input from you and has a relaxing vibe that makes you feel like you’re in space.
3Jurassic World AR
No, unfortunately, you can’t play as Chris Pratt. But you can let his character, Owen, fill you in on the game’s basics. If you’ve played Pokémon GO, you’ll feel right at home. Jurassic World Alive uses Google Maps to populate your local area with prehistoric predators. Instead of cute little creatures, you explore a map to find dinosaurs.
In Jurassic World Alive, you’ll build a collection of dinosaurs and complete events by pitting them against other dinosaurs. By collecting experience points, you’ll improve their abilities and evolve each into a more powerful version. Partake in limited-time events and utilize their unique abilities wisely to overcome tougher challenges.
2Pikmin Bloom
With 2021’s Pikmin Bloom, Niantic has knocked it out of the park once again. Based on the popular Nintendo IP, Pikmin Bloom puts you in charge of finding and growing an army of cute little creatures known as Pikmin. Collect and plant seedlings to start growing a Pikmin.
Just like hatching Pokémon eggs in Pokémon GO, walking in Pikmin Bloom grows the seedlings. Not only that, but every step creates a vibrant trail of flowers to show you the progress you’ve made. Once your seedlings turn into full-fledged Pikmin, take them to battle against giant mushrooms or complete various challenges.
1Pokémon GO
No AR list worth its salt would be complete without Pokémon GO. This game single-handedly popularized the AR genre and unlocked its full potential. Pokémon GO turns you into an actual Pokémon trainer. Create your personalized avatar and set out into the real world to locate and catch over 500 Pokémon.
Vibrant and packed with content, Pokémon Go incentivizes you to go out and explore. you’re able to challenge other players, or even your best friends, to a battle. On top of being a great AR game, it makes interacting with people and enjoying the outdoors, you know, enjoyable.
Even years after its release, Pokémon GO might still be the most refined augmented reality game. But as you can see, there are many other noteworthy contenders, some of which didn’t make the list. We encourage you to shout out your favorite in the comments below.
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