The iPad is a great platform for playing mobile games, with its large screen and rich, colorful display. Many companies have realized this and have put out tons of amazing games that rival that of any console or PC game.

Because so many companies want to capitalize on the mobile gaming industry, there are hundreds of thousands of games out there that you can choose from. So you might wonder, what are the best and highest quality games on the App Store?

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    Apple iPad

    In this list of the best iPad games, you’ll find the most entertaining, highest quality games out there. With so many different genres available when it comes to mobile games, there is truly something for everyone. 

    Keep in mind not all of these games are appropriate for little kids, so if you’re looking for those types of games, check out our list of some of the best math games for kids instead or educational games in general.

    Stardew Valley

    Stardew Valley game screen

    Stardew Valley is a simulation game where you run your own farm, and live among other townsfolk and farmers. The game goes through morning, afternoon, and night. Each day you can do whatever you wish to grow and upgrade your farm. You can also grow relationships with other characters in the game, becoming their friend or something more. 

    This game has tons of hidden secrets, and you can easily spend hours playing it as it gets extremely addictive. If you enjoy simulation games where you have specific tasks to do, you’ll love this game.

    The colorful pixel graphics and chiptune soundtrack adds a nostalgic charm to the game. Coupled with all its other features, the game has become a classic. You can buy it on the App Store for $7.99.

    Life Is Strange 

    Life is Strange ad

    Want a suspenseful story and character-driven game? Life Is Strange has one of the most compelling storylines out there as well as exciting and unique gameplay features. 

    You play as Max, a senior high school student who discovers she has the ability to rewind time. Throughout the game, you make choices that affect outcomes later on down the line. However, with Max’s time-reversing ability, you have the option to rethink your choices and make a different decision if need be. This sets the game apart from many others in the genre. 

    The game takes place in episodes, and episode one is free to play from the App Store. You can buy a pass for all the episodes for 8.99. Read more to learn if game subscriptions are worth the cost.

    Journey

    Journey ad

    This is a gorgeous adventure game originally released for the PS3, now on the iPad. You play as a traveler exploring the world and solving puzzles. You can play alone or with another player to explore the beautiful scenery. The game also won a grammy for its soundtrack, so make sure to be listening to the music as you play. 

    Journey is an extremely relaxing adventure game that is pleasing to the eyes and ears. It became a classic on the PS3, and with it now on the iPad, you can take the game wherever you wish. It only costs $4.99 on the App Store for the full game

    Donut County

    Donut County ad

    Prefer a more casual gaming experience? In Donut County, you play as a hole in the ground that swallows up objects it comes across. The more objects you eat, the bigger you become. This allows you to eat bigger and bigger objects, and grow even more. 

    This game is extremely addicting, and it doesn’t get boring as there are multiple other features you can use to mix up the gameplay. For example, you can catapult objects out of the hole, make combinations of objects to create special effects, multiple different areas to explore, and more. 

    For $4.99 you can download this game on the App Store

    Mario Kart Tour

    Mario Kart Tour ad

    If you thought Mario Kart could only be played on a console, think again. Nintendo created this spin-off game for the iPad with all the fun of the original Mario Kart games. There are new tracks to experience in this game too, inspired by real-world locations. There are also some classic Mario Kart tracks included.

    You can play this game online, with up to seven other players from anywhere in the world. You also have the ability to set different rules if you wish. 

    You can get it for free on the App Store, and there are also in-game purchases available. 

    Limbo

    Limbo ad

    This is a story-driven platforming game with a creepy, horror-esque vibe. It has won over 100 awards, such as “Best Downloadable” from GameInformer, and “Best Horror Game” from IGN. With a combination of interesting puzzles and a decidedly eerie art style, this game will capture and keep your attention. 

    It has an unforgettable and emotional storyline, as well as challenging puzzles that will make you think. All around this game is one of the best you can get on a mobile device. It only costs $3.99 on the App Store for access to the full game

    Scribblenauts Unlimited

    Scribblenauts Unlimited ad

    Scribblenauts was a game that was originally released on the Nintendo DS and immediately grew popular due to its unique concept. In the game, you can write out any object and it will appear in the game for you to use to complete puzzles. 

    There are tons of levels to complete, as well as a sandbox option where you can simply play around with creating objects and characters and having them interact. Now that Scribbnauts has been optimized for a mobile platform, you can complete levels wherever you go. 

    The full game is $4.99 on the app store

    Hearthstone

    Hearthstone

    If you’re a fan of tabletop card games like Magic: The Gathering, Hearthstone will be your new favorite game. It’s super easy to learn, with simple rules, yet can still become complex and addicting. It was created by Blizzard, the same company that made Overwatch and World of Warcraft. 

    You can create your own decks with card packs that you can either earn for free or pay for in-game. You can also play online with other players in real-time. Hearthstone was originally released for PC, but now you can play it anywhere on your iPad for free

    And if you really want to step up your mobile gaming, consider connecting a PS4 controller to your iOS device