If you were hoping for a laid-back, relaxing, and happy weekend, I've got some bad news for you. The surprise release of the critically acclaimed games, Lisa: The Painful and Lisa: The Joyful, now available on Android, might just pull you into a harrowing yet engaging RPG experience. Set in the post-apocalyptic world of Olathe, these games thrust you into the shoes of Brad Armstrong, who's on a desperate quest to reunite with his adoptive daughter, Buddy. Brace yourself for a journey filled with dismal moral choices that will challenge your ethics at every turn.
While the idea of diving into a soul-crushingly depressing RPG might sound off-putting, the Lisa series is celebrated for blending genuinely enjoyable gameplay with a deeply engaging and ethically challenging story. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're up for it, this could be exactly what you've been searching for.
In practical terms, however, Lisa isn't as confrontational as its narrative might suggest. The gameplay remains straightforward, reminiscent of a classic turn-based RPG. You'll recruit a squad of companions to join you on your journey, facing off against various foes. But be warned: your companions aren't as durable as you might hope, and certain instant kill moves by enemies or other events can permanently remove them from your roster. The mobile versions, part of the Definitive Edition collection, come with new mechanics, crisp HD visuals, and other enhancements that enrich the experience.
If Lisa piques your interest in turn-based battles but you're seeking something a bit softer, don't worry. We've got you covered with our curated list of the top 25 best RPGs for iOS and Android, all in one place, to help you expand your RPG palate.