Apple has done its best to corner every niche in the market, and video games are not an exception. Owning an Apple TV comes with a few different perks, and the games that you can download from the App Store is one of them.
If you’re looking for something new to play, here are some of our favorite Apple TV games that’ll occupy your time for hours (or maybe even days).
T
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, Android, iOS, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, Amazon Fire TV
Genre
Puzzle, Strategy, Quiz/Trivia, Indie
Developer
Jackbox Games, Inc.
Publisher
Jackbox Games, Inc.
Release
October 18, 2016
The Jackbox Party Pack series of games have been invading living rooms since 2014 and has been a hit since then. Featuring a collection of multiplayer games that players can interact with using via a web browser on their tablet, smartphone, or computer, you’ll find yourself and friends glued to the TV. Jackbox Party Pack 3 includes a lineup of favorites, including Quiplash 2, Trivia Murder Party, Guesspionage, Tee KO, and Fakin’ It. Whether you’re into trivia, quiz games, or more artistic endeavors, there is something for everyone in the party pack. The price is a bit on the higher side, but you’ll quickly recoup the money in hours of fun.
E
Platforms
iOS, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Racing, Simulator, Sport
Release
March 27, 2019
If you’re looking to see what graphics the Apple TV can push, look no further than the ultimate racing title, Rush Rally 3. Not only is Rush Rally 3 an exciting rally simulation game, but it can be played online with friends or other individuals around the globe. Weekly events keep you coming back for more as you build up, and tune, your garage of cars. Rush Rally 3 is also a perfect example of how you can step up your game by utilizing a supported third-party controller. Spin your wheels and hit the dirt, right from the comfort of your living room.
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Platform, Adventure
Developer
Ubisoft
Publisher
Ubisoft
Release
October 20, 2015
The new series of Rayman games, or newest we should say, are absolute lookers. They are like paintings in motion, and every level a joy to bounce and run through. Rayman Adventures might seem like a watered-down version of the core titles, but it is anything but. It has over 1,000 levels, controller support, and is just as high quality as the other games. Oh, and if that wasn’t good enough, it’s also free.
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS
Genre
Sport
Developer
Noodlecake Studios Inc.
Release
February 21, 2018
Alto sets out for a new adventure in Alto’s Odyssey, a sequel to the 2015 endless runner game, Alto’s Adventure. But, before you lose interest in “yet another endless runner,” know that this series of games brings beautiful graphics and an equally enchanting soundtrack to the big screen in a way that simply makes us smile. In Odyssey, Alto and his friends set off on a journey to discover the secrets of the desert with new game elements and even a zen mode for those who aren’t in the mood for competition. With universal iCloud support, you can also play on one Apple device and continue on another.
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, iOS
Genre
Point-and-click, Puzzle, Adventure, Indie
Developer
State of Play Games
Publisher
State of Play Games
Release
December 03, 2014
Puzzle adventures are a natural fit for Apple TV games, but the style on display in Lumino City makes it a completely engrossing experience. Winning dozens of awards, you explore a city made entirely out arts and craft materials. Not enough games dabble in this art style, so the fact that this one does, and is a satisfying puzzle adventure, makes it a must play.
E10
Platforms
Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Platform, Adventure
Developer
Mobge Ltd
Publisher
Senri, Mobge Ltd
Release
April 04, 2018
If you’re seeking out an exciting action-adventure platform for Apple TV, then look no further than Oddmar. Follow the adventures of Oddmar, a Viking who doesn’t feel as though he is worthy of Valhalla, and thus sets off on a journey to prove himself. The game features two dozen levels with physics-based puzzles and calls upon the skills of careful platform timing. Having been awarded Editors’ Choice by Apple’s AppStore team, we can’t help but agree with them as you traverse through everything from snowy mountains to dense forests.
Platforms
Android, iOS, Windows Phone
Genre
Platform
Developer
Headcannon
Publisher
Sega
Release
December 12, 2013
Sometimes, the best games are simply the classics, and that would appear to be the case with Sega’s Sonic the Hedgehog 2 for Apple TV. Initially released in 1992, this timeless platform features everyone’s favorite blue hedgehog vying to save the world from Dr. Eggman’s weapon, the Death Egg. Joining Sonic are two of the series most well-known characters, Tails, and Knuckles. Featuring a dozen different levels, as well as an online mode, this free-to-play game is undoubtedly a steal.
Platforms
Mac
Genre
Simulator
Release
November 02, 2017
Take to the skies and eliminate your enemies in Sky Gamblers — Infinite Jets. The classic game series for iOS makes its way to Apple TV with the developer’s latest installment, ensuring you can take part in intense aerial dogfights from the comfort of your couch. Step into a world where treason lurks around the corner in single-player mode, or jump online for PVP and PVE battles. With over 100 planes to choose from, and the ability to custom paint each fighter, Sky Gamblers delivers not only an immersive action-based experience but also a customizable one. Just be sure you don’t get shot down in the process.
E
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, iOS, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Puzzle, Simulator, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Circus Atos
Publisher
Circus Atos, RedDeerGames
Release
April 26, 2017
Fire up your HDR television because this game for Apple TV is undoubtedly a looker. A peaceful game that takes you on gentle journeys thought forests, jungles, and beyond, Under Leaves, asks you to find different objects within the scene. An excellent option for fans of classic hidden object games, Under Leaves features nine different locations to explore as you enjoy hand-drawn watercolor images and the included soundtrack. Even if you aren’t the biggest fan of hidden-object games, you might find yourself captivated by this title’s gentle visuals and alluring audio.
Platforms
Android, iOS
Genre
Platform, Puzzle, Adventure
Developer
Frogmind
Publisher
Frogmind
Release
December 17, 2015
Badlands 2 offers the same great adventure-puzzle experience that made its predecessor great while adding on new in-game mechanics to expand gameplay. Flap around the forest as a little black, ball-shaped creature, using your wings to maneuver through stages. Just be sure to avoid obstacles such as water, fire, and frost. For replayability, the developers have included three different playable modes, including survive the longest, save the most clones, and reach the end fastest. If you haven’t already picked up a Badlands game in the past, starting with this well-tuned sequel is a great place to start.
Platforms
Android, iOS, BlackBerry OS
Genre
Racing, Simulator
Developer
Firemonkeys Studios
Publisher
Electronic Arts
Release
February 28, 2013
Racing onto the TV screen with a free-to-play system and console-style graphics is Electronic Art’s Real Racing 3. Step into the driver’s seat and race through 40 different circuits at locations around the world. The game features officially licensed tracks and over 250 real-world cars from companies Porsche, Bugatti, McLaren, Aston Martin, and more. Formula 1 vehicles have also been thrown into the mix, and you can hop online to compete head-to-head with players from the other side of the globe. If you’re a racing fan, we know you’ll enjoy this authentic, rubber-meets-asphalt racing experience — ready, set, go!
Platforms
iOS
Genre
Role-playing (RPG)
Release
December 08, 2011
The world-renowned Chrono Trigger of 1995 has hopped its way from the original Super Nintendo Entertainment System to today’s Apple TV. The first of the Chrono RPG series, Chrono Trigger whips the player through time on an adventure to save the planet. This latest edition of the game has received a few upgrades from Square Enix, including an updated control scheme, improved graphics, and readjusted audio. If you’re itching for an RPG that might take over your time in the living room, Chrono Trigger is a great place to start. However, be sure to budget for the sequels that you’ll eventually end up purchasing.
Platforms
iOS
Genre
Puzzle, Role-playing (RPG), Adventure, Indie
Developer
Cornfox & Bros.
Publisher
FDG Entertainment
Release
November 14, 2013
At times, we can’t help but love a well-developed close. Oceanhorn is an exciting adventure game that has you explore the islands of the Uncharted Seas, fighting monsters, using magic, and discovering treasure. Sure, the game itself might resemble that of a certain Triforce wielding, Hylian character’s world, but we have a hard time complaining. Diving into the story provides over 10 hours of gameplay backed by a fantastic soundtrack worked on by Nobuo Uematsu of Final Fantasy and Kenji Ito of Seiken Densetsu. Oceanhorn also features iCloud sync support so that you can ensure you never lose your progress.
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), Android, iOS, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Shooter, Adventure
Publisher
Gameloft
Release
July 01, 2014
This first-person shooter from the mobile game developer Gameloft shows that the company might have a hit on its hands. The fifth installation in the Modern Combat series, the game brings the sophisticated graphics and precision controls we have come to expect from a console game. Players can pick from nine customizable classes, including assault, heavy, recon, sniper, support, and more, then jump into the online multiplayer action. As you advance through the game, you can pick up class skills and new rewards that help ensure you become the master of the battlefield.
Platforms
iOS
Release
August 07, 2020
Tale of Crows is a challenging strategy game set around 8,000 years before the events of Game of Thrones, where you play the role of Lord Commanders, making important resource decisions and mounting expeditions beyond the wall to shape history itself. The game is made to be obsessed over, with a narrative idle function that ensures time passes in the game even when you aren’t playing. Messages and results can arrive in the meantime, and you may open up a new session to discover new problems as the years continue to turn for the Night’s Watch.
E
Platforms
Linux, PC (Microsoft Windows), Mac, iOS, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Puzzle, Strategy, Adventure, Indie
Developer
Draknek and friends
Publisher
Draknek
Release
September 10, 2020
The surreal, floating world of Expedition makes for soothing, aesthetically satisfying gameplay that’s worth checking out, even if some of the puzzles can get a little frustrating. The game’s goal is to explore a world full of misty islands and find what’s left of several lost, ancient civilizations. The game’s monster sprinkles humor throughout the journey as he muses over what humanity was like. Ultimately, the overall point is uncovering or creating paths between the different islands without things ever getting too out-of-hand. The experience is cute and mentally stimulating.
Platforms
iOS
Genre
Adventure
Developer
WayForward Technologies Inc.
Publisher
WayForward Technologies Inc.
Release
September 18, 2020
Fans of old arcade-style games like Gauntlet will love Marble Knights and its four-player experience and fascinating world to explore. But there’s one significant difference: everything is made of marbles, making for an unusual landscape that provides a fun and wacky environment for players to play in. Your job is to fight, solve puzzles, and uncover the depths of your marble-powers. The game’s varying obstacles keep every mission interesting as you journey on to defeat marble-man Lord Terroball.
T
Platforms
PC (Microsoft Windows), PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Genre
Fighting, Platform, Hack and slash/Beat 'em up, Adventure
Developer
Soleil
Publisher
Adult Swim Games
Release
August 21, 2020
Apple TV is the perfect system to try out the super-authentic Samurai Jack game—featuring the original voice actors—if you haven’t done so yet. Each character, setting, and unique visual perfectly mirrors the show, so your character will run through environments throughout space and time that will likely feel incredibly familiar. You may even stumble across a few family foes who require you to test out your battle skills. Every swing or fight will make you feel like a badass, thanks to the graphics and action gameplay that immerse you in this world.
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