Though it's always worth keeping an open mind when it comes to premium mobile games and paying for content, sometimes you don't have to spend an arm and leg to play something truly amazing. If you get a game that manages to smash style and substance successfully, you're in for a treat.
Yes, these five RPGs are free to play, but they stand out because of their quality and general content. That's enough of my rambling though. If you're looking for a decent RPG to play this instant, but don't have the cash to spare you'll get on nicely with these.
Eternium – download on iOS
Made by a team of passionate RPG fans, this action indie game has a feel of Diablo and Torchlight and sports some seriously snappy controls. Tap to move, swipe to cast, these controls aren't only easy, they're more relaxed and closer to the classic feel the developer's going for.
More than anything, this is a game that doesn't overwhelm you with paywalls, incessant adverts, or IAP pressuring. As is stated on the actual App Store page, "The game can be really played for free, as more than 90% of our players do. Purchases are completely optional. Gems, the game’s main currency, can be collected from enemies and quests. There is no limiting stamina or energy. The best things in the game are obtained by playing, not paying." Aww, nice.
Lineage 2: Revolution – download on iOS
After the demise of the Elmoreden Empire each of the territories declared independence, leading to violence and ruin. The Dark Society is the centre of the turmoil, and only the Silverlight Mercenaries can fight to bring it down. This massive MMORPG features huge battles of up to 200 players, five playable races, stunning graphics, and more.
I guess this mention comes just in time to celebrate the addition of the Orc Race. I mean, we knew they were there, but now you can physically play as them across three different classes: Shaman, Raider, and Monk. Get involved.
Might & Magic: Elemental Guardians – download on iOS
I wasn't quite sure what to expect in this strategic RPG, but upon opening the game and diving in you quickly realise the sheer quality of it very quickly. Besides offering up a meaty single-player campaign, you've got a ton to consider during play and always need to stay on your toes.
As well as choosing Chimera, Materia, or Anima as your House of Magic, you need to upgrade your Hero avatar and level up your team as you go, reaping as many victories as possible. Collect a huge number of beasts and trade them in and out to create the very best and strongest teams imaginable.
Pokemon Quest – download on iOS
We weren't sure what to expect when Pokemon Quest dropped on Nintendo Switch, but were nonetheless delighted to hear about it coming to mobile too. Unlike the traditional style of Pokemon, your wee beasties have gotten a bit… blockier this time around.
Travel around Tumblecube Island, battle enemy Pokemon with your team of three, befriend new Pokemon by cooking their favourite meals, and train them up to be even stronger than ever before in sacrificial training sessions. Okay, that last bit is a tad overkill, but it's not far off what actually goes on.
Rick and Morty: Pocket Mortys – download on iOS
It feels right to mention this one after Pokemon Quest since Pocket Mortys was a bit of a take on the Pokeball-slinging RPG in the first place. In it, you need to buddy up with Ricks all across the multi-verse and get down to some intense Morty training.
Whether you fancy playing through its single-player campaign offline or want to go up against strangers online in intense battles, there are over 300 Mortys to train and combine and, yes, it gets rather daft. Fans of the show, you'll encounter plenty of familiar characters, but don't worry if you've not watched it yet. You'll still enjoy it.
