R-Android
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An independent reference about mobile games on Android. Not affiliated with the former site on this domain, with Google or with game developers; we do not distribute files or APKs. Install apps from official stores.

an independent reference about mobile games on Android

R-Android: a reference guide to mobile games on Android

Phones have long been one of the main gaming platforms: the app store holds thousands of games, from simple puzzles to large role-playing titles. With all that choice come questions. Which game suits you? Where can you install it safely? Why does it need so many permissions? Where does your battery go, and how do you make sure a child doesn't spend money by accident? R-Android is an independent reference that answers these questions calmly and without advertising.

A good mobile game doesn't start with the Install button. It starts with a minute spent on the app's page: who the developer is, what the game asks for and how it makes money.

— Editor's note

Where to start

I'm choosing a game

Genres and formats of mobile games: what works for short breaks, for offline journeys and for long evenings.

I don't know the jargon

A glossary of terms, from APK and Play Protect to battle passes, gacha and parental controls.

Reference sections

  • Game catalogue

    Genres and formats of mobile games for phones and tablets, with no scores, rankings or file links.

  • Guides and walkthroughs

    The kinds of mobile game guides, how to install a game safely and how to spot a fake app. The publication catalogue is here too.

  • Tips and mechanics

    Battery, heat, storage and data while gaming, limiting purchases, and why root, mods and cheats are best avoided.

  • Game updates

    New reference sections, how to read an update description in the store, and why new games won't install on old devices.

  • Reviews

    How to read mobile game reviews in the store and what to check on an app's page before installing.

  • FAQ

    Answers about this reference, installing apps and app safety, in-game purchases and children.

  • Gaming terms

    A glossary of terms: Android and the app store, mobile games, security.

A new game on your phone: five steps to a safe install

  1. Search the official store

    Open Google Play or your phone maker's store and find the game there. Don't follow links from ads or messages promising the “full version”.

  2. Check the developer

    Look at the developer name on the game's page. Fakes often use a name that looks like the real one but differs by a letter or two.

  3. Read what the game asks for

    Look at the data safety and permissions section. A puzzle game usually has no need for your contacts, messages or microphone.

  4. Find out how payment works

    The app's page says whether the game contains ads and in-app purchases. That way you know in advance what to expect.

  5. Check the age rating

    The age rating tells you whether the game is suitable for a child. If a child uses the phone, set up purchase approval beforehand.

Common questions in brief

Can I download a game APK here?

No. We do not distribute files or link to APKs. Install games from official stores: that way the app is checked and updates arrive automatically.

Where are the old files and pages of this site?

They are not being restored. This domain used to host a catalogue of Android games and apps; the current reference is not connected to it and does not continue its content.

Are game “mods” safe?

Nobody checks modified versions of games from unofficial sources. They may contain malicious code, and using cheats in online games usually breaks the rules and can get your account banned.

What if a game asks for lots of permissions?

Think about why it needs them. If there is no explanation, deny access or don't install the game. You can revoke permissions later in the app settings on your phone.

About the project

R-Android is an independent reference for owners of Android phones and tablets. This domain used to host a catalogue of Android games and apps. The current reference is not connected to it, distributes nothing and does not restore the old pages.

We write about how to choose mobile games and genres, how to install apps safely, read permissions and avoid malicious files, how to save battery and data, how in-app purchases work and how to set up parental controls. We do not give ratings, we do not make up figures, and we do not recommend anything that breaks the rules of games or app stores.

  • Guides and walkthroughs

    The kinds of mobile game guides, how to install a game safely and how to spot a fake app. The publication catalogue is here too.

  • Tips and mechanics

    Battery, heat, storage and data while gaming, limiting purchases, and why root, mods and cheats are best avoided.

  • Game catalogue

    Genres and formats of mobile games for phones and tablets, with no scores, rankings or file links.

Sources

  • Android Developers — version history
  • Google Play Help (purchases, parental controls, Play Protect)
  • International Age Rating Coalition (IARC)

Information about Android and Google Play is based on Google's official documentation and help pages. The store interface, setting names and policies change over time, so check them in official sources and on your own device.