The Apple Watch is an incredibly versatile device that not only tracks your steps and keeps accurate time but also seamlessly integrates with your Apple iPhone, enhancing your daily routine. With the launch of the sleek Apple Watch Series 10, the potential for gaming on your wrist has never been more exciting. Whether you're looking to kill time or engage in some quick gaming sessions, the Apple Watch offers a range of games that are perfect for on-the-go entertainment.
We've curated a list of the best mobile games optimized for the Apple Watch, all of which can also be enjoyed on your iPhone or iPad. Many of these games are free to download, though some offer in-app purchases for enhanced features. For those seeking premium experiences, there are a few options available at a modest price, ensuring there's something for every type of gamer.
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
Quick 80s retro LCD challenge.
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 brings the nostalgia of 80s gaming to your wrist with gameplay reminiscent of classic Nintendo Game & Watch and Tiger Electronics handhelds. Choose between level-based or lives-based modes and use the Digital Crown to catch falling space junk, similar to the Atari classic Tempest. This game is also available on iPhone and iMessage, serving as a prequel to Star Jolt.
Lifeline: Beside You in Time
Lifeline: Beside You in Time
Save Taylor!
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 immerses you in a text-based adventure where you guide an astronaut away from a black hole. Your decisions shape the story, offering branching paths that lead to different outcomes. This game is also available on iPhone and iPad, allowing seamless cross-device play.
Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas!
Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas!
The King of Arcade Jump Games.
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 compact size, Dare the Monkey: Go Bananas! offers a surprisingly rich platformer experience. As a monkey navigating jungle traps, the game boasts layered graphics and addictive, casual gameplay. It's free to play with in-app purchases and available on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV, and iMessage.
Chess
Chess - Play & Learn
Chess.com - Games with friends.
Apple Watch: Series 5-Series 10 | watchOS: 4 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 6s or later, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
Take the classic board game Chess on-the-go with your Apple Watch. It's free to play and cross-platform compatible with the iPad, allowing you to challenge opponents worldwide at any skill level, right from your wrist.
Octopuz
Octopuz
Memory game - train your brain.
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 challenges your memory as you match design patterns within a time limit. As you progress, the patterns become more complex, making it an excellent brain workout. It's free to play with in-app purchases and also available on iPhone and iPad.
Arcadia!
Arcadia - Arcade Watch Games
Retro 8-bit Game Collection.
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 a nostalgic collection of over 20 classic game clones, including Snake, Galaga, OutRun, and more. With no ads or in-app purchases, it's pure retro gaming on-the-go, also available on iPhone, iPad, and Apple TV.
Infinity Loop: Blueprints
Infinity Loop: Blueprints
Infinity Loop game is extremely simple, easy to learn puzzle game.
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 is a free-to-play puzzle game where you rotate pieces to form an infinity loop. As the challenge escalates, you can also engage in the "Creative Lounge" mode to create and share your own puzzles. It's also available on iPhone and iPad.
Jupiter Attack
Jupiter Attack
Prepare to enter bullet hell...
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 puts you in the pilot's seat of a spaceship battling alien invaders. Collect power-ups to enhance your weapons as you navigate through this sci-fi shooter. Part of the Space Watch Trilogy, it's rated highly among Apple Watch gamers, with a bundle option for all three games at just $3.
Jellyfish Tap
Jellyfish Tap
Simple. Beautiful Colors. A Jellyfish.
Apple Watch: Series 1-Series 10 and SE | watchOS: 6 or higher | Compatible Apple iPhone: 4s-6s, SE | Price: Free with in-app purchases
Similar to Flappy Bird, Jellyfish Tap is an engaging tap-and-jump game where you guide a jellyfish through underwater obstacles. The challenge increases with speed, and it's free to play with in-app purchases, also available on iPhone and iPad.
Ping Pong
Ping Pong - Watch Retro Game
10 different classic game modes.
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 classic Pong and four other retro games in Ping Pong: Watch Retro Game. Use the Digital Crown to control the paddles, and customize your game with various colors and designs. It's free to play with in-app purchases, and also available on iPhone.
Tiny Armies
Tiny Armies
Epic battles! Tiny proportions.
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 a turn-based tactical strategy game where you swipe to navigate and defeat enemies. Play solo or challenge a friend via iMessage, and enjoy the game on iPhone and iPad as well.
Rules!
Rules!
Fast paced puzzle action.
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 a single rule per level in this fast-paced puzzle game. As you progress, new rules are added, making the game increasingly complex. It's $2.99 to download and play, and also available on iPhone, iPad, and iMessage.
How to Choose Which Apple Watch Games to Play in 2025
The Apple Watch isn't just for quick glances at notifications; it's also perfect for quick gaming sessions. With hundreds of games available on the Apple App Store, most of which are also compatible with the iPhone, you can enjoy gaming without needing to pull out your phone.
Given the vast selection, it can be overwhelming to choose where to start. Here are some factors to consider when selecting Apple Watch games:
Apple Watch Model
Knowing your Apple Watch model is crucial, as newer models like Series 4 and later run the latest watchOS 10, ensuring compatibility with the latest games. Older models like Series 3 run watchOS 6, which may limit your options. Check your model number at the bottom of your watch to confirm.
Your paired iPhone also plays a role. For watchOS 10, you'll need an iPhone XS or later, while watchOS 6 is compatible with iPhones from 4s to 6s. Ensure both devices are up to date for the best experience.
Storage Space
With up to 64GB of storage, the Apple Watch has limited space, but most games are small, typically under 1GB. However, older models like the Series 4 with only 16GB may require you to manage your apps more carefully.
Price
Many Apple Watch games are free to download, but be aware of in-app purchases that can enhance the game or remove ads. Consider whether you're willing to spend extra for additional features.
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 and engaging challenge at your fingertips.
