The Apple Watch is a versatile device that not only tracks your steps, controls your iPhone, and keeps accurate time but also serves as an entertaining platform for gaming. With the arrival of the sleek Apple Watch Series 10, the future of gaming on this smartwatch looks even brighter. Whether you're looking to pass time or engage in quick gaming sessions, the Apple Watch has you covered with a variety of games that can be enjoyed right on your wrist.
We've curated a list of the best mobile games for the Apple Watch to help you dive into the gaming world. These games are not only playable on the Apple Watch but are also compatible with the iPhone and iPad, providing a seamless gaming experience across devices. While most of these games are free to download with in-app purchases available, some are premium purchases, but they're reasonably priced, ensuring you won't break the bank.
Star Duster ($2.99)
Lifeline: Beside You in Time ($3.99)
Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas! (Free)
Chess (Free)
Octopuz (Free)
Arcadia! ($1.99)
Infinity Loop: Blueprints (Free)
Jupiter Attack ($1.99)
Jellyfish Tap (Free)
Ping Pong (Free)
Tiny Armies ($0.99)
Rules! ($2.99)
4Quick 80s retro LCD challenge.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 7.1 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: $2.99
For $2.99, Star Duster offers a nostalgic trip with gameplay reminiscent of classic Nintendo Game & Watch and Tiger Electronics handhelds. Choose between level-based or lives-based modes as you aim to catch falling space junk using the Digital Crown. It's akin to the Atari classic Tempest. Additionally, Star Duster serves as a prequel to Star Jolt and is also available on iPhone and iMessage.
6Save Taylor!
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 3-Series 10 | watchOS: 6 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 6s or later, SE | Price: $3.99
Priced at $3.99, Lifeline: Beside You in Time is a gripping text-based adventure where you guide an astronaut away from a black hole. Your choices shape the narrative, leading to different outcomes. This game is also accessible on iPhone and iPad, allowing you to continue your adventure across devices.
4The King of Arcade Jump Games.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
Despite the Apple Watch's modest 49mm display size, Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas! delivers a fun platformer experience. Control a monkey that jumps and rolls through a jungle, dodging traps and enemies. The game's detailed graphics and addictive gameplay make it a standout choice. It's free to download with in-app purchases and is also available on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and iMessage.
4Chess.com - Games with friends.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 5-Series 10 | watchOS: 4 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 6s or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
Enjoy the classic game of Chess on-the-go with your Apple Watch. This free-to-play game allows you to challenge players of all skill levels worldwide, right from your wrist. If you prefer a larger screen, you can also play on your iPad.
2Memory game - train your brain.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 1-Series 10 and SE| watchOS: 4 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 4s-10, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
Octopuz is designed to enhance your memory through pattern recognition. You must replicate a displayed design within a time limit, with challenges increasing in complexity as you progress. It's free to play with in-app purchases and available on iPhone and iPad.
5Retro 8-bit Game Collection.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 8 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: $1.99
For $1.99, Arcadia! offers over 20 classic retro game clones like Snake, Galaga, and Pong, all playable on your Apple Watch. Enjoy uninterrupted gaming with no ads, in-app purchases, or data tracking. The collection is also available on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV.
4Infinity Loop game is extremely simple, easy to learn puzzle game.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 4.3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
Infinity Loop: Blueprints challenges you to rotate pieces to form an infinity loop. Though simple at first, the puzzles become increasingly complex. Additionally, the "Creative Lounge" mode lets you design and share puzzles with an online community. The game is also available on iPhone and iPad.
3Prepare to enter bullet hell...
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 8.7 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: $1.99
For $1.99, Jupiter Attack offers a thrilling sci-fi shooting experience. Navigate your spaceship to destroy alien invaders and collect power-ups to enhance your weapons. It's part of the Space Watch Trilogy, which also includes Kepler Attack and Asteroid Commando. A bundle of all three games is available for $3.
1Simple. Beautiful Colors. A Jellyfish.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 1-Series 10 and SE | watchOS: 6 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 4s-6s, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
In Jellyfish Tap, guide a jellyfish through an underwater world by tapping to jump over obstacles. The game, similar to Flappy Bird, increases in difficulty as you progress. It's free to play with in-app purchases and available across iPhone and iPad platforms.
310 different classic game modes.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 4.3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
Ping Pong: Watch Retro Game brings the classic Pong and other retro games like Breakout and Invader to your wrist. Control the paddles with the Digital Crown and customize the game with different colors and designs. It's free to play with in-app purchases and also available on iPhone.
2Epic battles! Tiny proportions.
See it
Apple Watch: Series 4-Series 10, SE, and Ultra | watchOS: 3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 8 or later, SE | Price: $0.99
For less than a dollar, Tiny Armies provides a strategic turn-based experience where you swipe to defeat enemies across various terrains. Play solo on your Apple Watch or challenge friends via iMessage. It's also compatible with iPhone and iPad.
3Fast paced puzzle action.
See it at App Store
Apple Watch: Series 1-Series 10 and SE | watchOS: 8.3 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 4s-6s, SE | Price: $2.99
Rules! is a memory-based puzzle game where you must follow increasing rules to clear levels. As you progress, new rules are added, making the game more challenging. It's available for $2.99 and can be played on iPhone, iPad, and iMessage.
The Apple Watch not only provides quick information but also offers a platform for gaming. With numerous games available on the Apple App Store, choosing the right one can be overwhelming. Here's what to consider when selecting Apple Watch games:
Knowing your Apple Watch model is crucial, as it determines game compatibility. If you own a newer model with watchOS 10, you can access all compatible games, including those for Series 4 and later. Older models like the Series 3, running watchOS 6, may have fewer options. Check your model number at the bottom of your watch to confirm.
Ensure your iPhone is compatible as well, as it pairs with your watch. For watchOS 10, you need an iPhone XS or later; for watchOS 6, an iPhone 4s through 6s will do. The Apple Watch SE and iPhone SE (second gen onward) should be updated to watchOS 10 and iOS 18, respectively.
With a maximum of 64GB, storage on the Apple Watch is limited. Most games, however, are small, with file sizes under 1GB. Still, consider storage if you have an older model with many apps. The Apple Watch Series 4, the oldest model running watchOS 10, has just 16GB of storage.
Many Apple Watch games are free to download, but be aware of in-app purchases that unlock additional content or remove ads. Some premium games are available for a small fee, ensuring a complete experience without additional costs.
Ultimately, choose games that look fun or challenging to you. Apple Watch games are designed for quick, easy-to-learn play, offering new challenges with every session.