The Apple Watch is not just a stylish accessory; it's a powerhouse of functionality, perfect for tracking your steps, controlling your iPhone, keeping accurate time, and much more. With the sleek Apple Watch Series 10 now available, the future of Apple Watch gaming is more exciting than ever. Whether you're waiting for a bus or taking a break, you can enjoy a variety of games right on your wrist, and many of these games are also compatible with your iPhone or iPad.
We've compiled a list of the best mobile games for the Apple Watch to help you dive into gaming on the go. These games are designed to be quick, easy to play, and most are free to download, though some offer in-app purchases for additional content. A few premium options are available at a nominal cost, ensuring you can enjoy top-notch gaming without breaking the bank.
These are the best Apple Watch games
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)
Star Duster
Star Duster
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 just $2.99, Star Duster offers a nostalgic trip back to the 80s with gameplay reminiscent of classic Nintendo Game & Watch and Tiger Electronics handhelds. With two game modes—one level-based and the other lives-based—you'll use the Digital Crown to catch falling space junk. It's a fun nod to the Atari classic Tempest. Plus, Star Duster is also available on iPhone and through iMessage.
Lifeline: Beside You in Time
Lifeline: Beside You in Time
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
At $3.99, Lifeline: Beside You in Time is an engaging text-based adventure where you guide an astronaut named Taylor to safety from a black hole. Your decisions shape the story, leading to various outcomes. This immersive game is also playable on iPhone and iPad, ensuring you don't miss a moment of the adventure.
Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas!
Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas!
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 small display, Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas! delivers a thrilling platformer experience. As a monkey, you'll run, jump, and roll through the jungle, dodging traps and enemies. The game's graphics are surprisingly detailed, and the gameplay is described as "extremely addictive" and "super casual." It's free to download, with in-app purchases, and available across multiple Apple devices.
Chess
Chess - Play & Learn
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
Take your chess skills on the go with Chess on your Apple Watch. Play against opponents worldwide, at any skill level, right from your wrist. This classic game is free to play and also compatible with iPad, offering a larger playing field when you need it.
Octopuz
Octopuz
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
Sharpen your memory with Octopuz, a game where you match design patterns within a time limit. As you progress, the challenges become more intricate, making it a perfect brain workout. It's free to play with in-app purchases and also available on iPhone and iPad.
Arcadia!
Arcadia - Arcade Watch Games
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
Relive the glory days of retro gaming with Arcadia!, a collection of over 20 classic game clones including Snake, Galaga, OutRun, and Pong. For just $1.99, you get a complete, ad-free, and in-app purchase-free experience, playable on your Apple Watch as well as iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV.
Infinity Loop: Blueprints
Infinity Loop: Blueprints
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
Rotate pieces to create an infinity loop in Infinity Loop: Blueprints. It starts easy but gets progressively challenging. The game also features a "Creative Lounge" mode where you can design your own puzzles and share them with the community. Available on iPhone and iPad too.
Jupiter Attack
Jupiter Attack
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 sci-fi shooter experience where you battle alien invaders as a spaceship. Collect power-ups to enhance your weapons and enjoy this thrilling game. Part of the Space Watch Trilogy, it's also available in a bundle with Kepler Attack and Asteroid Commando for $3.
Jellyfish Tap
Jellyfish Tap
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, navigate a jellyfish through an underwater world by tapping to jump over obstacles. It's simple yet challenging, with beautiful colors that enhance the experience. Free to play with in-app purchases, it's also compatible with iPhone and iPad.
Ping Pong
Ping Pong - Watch Retro Game
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
Enjoy the timeless classic Pong and other retro games with Ping Pong: Watch Retro Game. Use the Digital Crown to control the paddles and customize the game's appearance. It's free to play with in-app purchases and also available on iPhone.
Tiny Armies
Tiny Armies
2Epic battles! Tiny proportions.
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: $0.99
For less than a dollar, Tiny Armies offers turn-based tactical gameplay on a small scale. Swipe to defeat enemies and navigate various terrains. Play solo or challenge a friend via iMessage, and enjoy it on iPhone and iPad as well.
Rules!
Rules!
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! challenges you to follow increasingly complex rules to clear levels. It's fast-paced and engaging, available for $2.99, and also playable on iPhone, iPad, and iMessage.
How to Choose Which Apple Watch Games to Play in 2025
The Apple Watch is a versatile device that not only provides quick information but also lets you enjoy quick games on the go. With hundreds of games available in the Apple App Store for the Apple Watch, and most being compatible with iPhone games, you can play without needing to pull out your phone.
Here's what to consider when selecting Apple Watch games:
Apple Watch Model
If you already own an Apple Watch, knowing your model is key. Newer models with the latest watchOS 10 (Series 4 and later) can run all compatible games. Older models like the Series 3 (watchOS 6) may have fewer options. Check your model number at the bottom of your Apple Watch.
Also, ensure your iPhone is compatible; watchOS 10 requires an iPhone XS or later, while watchOS 6 supports iPhone 4s through 6s. The Apple Watch SE and iPhone SE (second gen onward) should be up to date with watchOS 10 and iOS 18, respectively.
Storage Space
With up to 64GB of storage, the Apple Watch has limited space. However, most games are small in size, typically under 1GB, so they won't take up much room. Keep an eye on storage, especially with older models like the Series 4, which has only 16GB.
Price
Most Apple Watch games are free to download, but some offer in-app purchases for additional content or to remove ads. Consider whether you're willing to spend extra for enhanced gameplay.
Enjoyment
Ultimately, choose games that look fun or challenging. Apple Watch games are designed to be quick and easy to learn, ensuring there's always a new adventure waiting for you.