Most iPhone games are meant for a single player, which is fine when you just want to kill a few minutes while you’re waiting in line. But sometimes you want a more significant gaming experience where you can take on your friends, whether they’re at your house or in a different country. Fortunately, there are a number of great multiplayer games that you can get on your iPhone, from first-person shooters and battle royale games to causal racing games. Here are 25 of the best multiplayer games for iPhone to get you started in 2021.
25 Great Multiplayer Games for iPhone in 2021
There are a lot of different types of multiplayer games for iPhone out there. You can look for casual multiplayer iOS games, MOBAs and MMORPGs, or car racing games and more. We have covered all of these (and more) in this article. As always, you can use the table of contents below to skip ahead to any particular game that piques your interest.
Casual Multiplayer Games for iPhone
Let’s start off the list with some casual games. These are the kind of games you can play in your free time without having to put too much effort on them.
1. 8 Ball Pool
Miniclip’s 8 Ball Pool is, without a doubt, one of the best multiplayer games for your iPhone. I was introduced to this particular game when I was in high school, and I’ve been recommending it to everyone since then. 8 Ball Pool has a simple yet attractive interface that makes it easy to play.
Although there’s an option to play 8 Ball Pool with a guest account, I highly recommend signing via Facebook or Miniclip account to enjoy all the multiplayer features. You can either play a 1v1 game or challenge your Facebook or 8 Ball Pool friends for a match. Heck, you can even play an 8-player tournament to claim your spot in the leaderboards. Every time you start a new match, you burn some coins and place your bet. The winner, of course, walks away with all the coins.
If you ever run out of coins to play, you can choose to pick up some coins from the in-game store in exchange for money. You can also use the coins to get cosmetic upgrades, power-ups and more. 8 Ball Pool is available as a free title on the App Store, and I highly recommend you check it out.
- Multiplayer mode: Online only
- Download 8 Ball Pool (Free)
2. Bowmasters
Bowmasters is a turn-based game in which you and your opponent will take turns firing arrows at each other. You’ll be standing across a stage in varying distances, and your objective is to accurately hit your enemy. Depending on the distance, you’ll have to measure the power and angle of your shot to hit your opponent. I know it sounds like a lot of work, but trust me, you’ll get a hang of the controls in no time.
Much like its single-player mode, Bowmasters’ multiplayer mode is also a lot of fun. It is, however, worth pointing out that the multiplayer mode isn’t accessible from the start. You’ll have to unlock it by getting 10 wins against the AI, which also doubles up as your training period. The game offers both online and a local multiplayer mode.
You can choose to splurge on in-app purchases for both cosmetic and character upgrades, but that’s entirely optional. You can easily collect the necessary amount of coins and gems by winning battles or watching video ads from time-to-time. Bowmasters is available as a free-to-play game on the App Store, and it is indeed one of the best multiplayer games you can add to your library this year.
- Multiplayer mode: Play with friends locally or online
- Download Bowmasters (Free)
3. Super Stickman Golf 3
I’ve always had a special place for games with stick figures, and Super Stickman Golf 3 is one of my favorites. Super Stickman Golf 3 is the latest in the long-running Stickman series for iPhone, and as the name suggests, it is a golfing game at its heart. Your objective is to get the ball in the hole. From ‘Long Hit Iron’ shots to a simple golf drill, you can truly put your golfing skills to work in this game.
The gameplay, in case you are wondering, is fairly simple. I love how there’s no tutorial in this game, and it lets you dive into the game right away. Yes, you can choose to play the single-player mode right away and get started with the game. However, I highly recommend you go for the multiplayer mode as there are two distinct game elements. There’s a race mode in which you and your opponent will race to shoot the ball into the hole as fast as possible, and a ‘Turn-based’ mode, in which you compete against the opponent in a battle that focuses on the score.
I personally prefer playing the race mode, because of its competitive nature, but you can’t go wrong either way. The game also offers in-app purchases, however, they’re completely optional. Overall, Super Stickman Golf 3, in my opinion, is one of the best online multiplayer games you can play on your iPhone. It’s an easy-to-play title that offers pretty much everything you could want from a casual game.
- Multiplayer mode: Online only
- Download Super Stickman Golf 3 (Free)
4. Dots and Boxes
Should you want to indulge in some classy board games with plenty of twists and turns, look no further than “Dots and Boxes”. The game is all about tapping on the dots to draw lines and closing squares. And if you succeed in getting more squares than your rivals, you will be the winner.
Based on your skill-set, you can choose from three difficulty levels. As each level is designed with different challenges, you will enjoy playing it solo or against your friend. Plus, there is also an online multiplayer mode to let you lock horns with other players from around the world.
The better you perform, the more lucrative achievements you get. And with every win, you get a chance to top the leaderboard to be the most decorated player. On top of all, the game also offers a good collection of colorful themes to let you add some personal touch into the mix.
- Multiplayer mode: Play with friends locally or online
- Download Dots and Boxes (Free)
(MOBA) Multiplayer Online Battle Arena Games for iPhone
If you want to get a taste of some intense multiplayer gaming experience, then you’ve got to play some MOBA titles. Here are a couple of my favorite titles in this category –
5. Arena of Valor
You may have heard of Arena of Valor in the past, as it is one of the most popular MOBA titles of all times. It’s basically a DOTA-like game, and the upgraded version of the game offers 5v5 combat mode in classic MOBA style, which means your objective is to take down enemy towers. Yes, it’s as good as a MOBA would get on a smartphone.
Arena of Valor features over 40 heroes and a bunch of game modes to choose from. In addition to the 5V5 mode, you can also choose to play 1v1 or 3v3 mode. Each match lasts around 10 minutes, so it’s easy to sneak in a game or two between your work. The game also has precision controls, and if you’ve ever played MOBA titles before, then you’ll definitely feel at home with this one. Arena of Valor weighs 1.3GB in size, and it is compatible with iPhone, iPad, and iPod touch running iOS 8.0 or later.
- Multiplayer mode: Online only
- Download Arena of Valor (Free)
6. Vainglory 5v5
Vainglory is a top-tier, action-packed MOBA title. Thanks to its popularity, it is currently the number one MOBA title on the App Store. Be it casual, ranked or BRAWL modes, Vainglory has the perfect gameplay style for you. You also get to choose from 37+ playable heroes and unlock skins for them.
My personal favorite feature of Vainglory is its in-game Guild finder, which makes it easier for me to find a game anytime I want. It also has support for Joystick controls and 120FPS, which means you are in for an ultimate MOBA experience on a smartphone. Vainglory weighs 2GB in size, and it is compatible with iPhone XS, X, 8 Plus, iPad, and iPod touch running on iOS 8.0 or above.
- Multiplayer mode: Online mode or join a party with friends
- Download Vainglory 5v5 (Free)
7. Heroes of Order & Chaos
Claiming to be the ultimate MOBA game, “Heroes of Order & Chaos” has got all the ingredients to dish out an epic battlefield where you can showcase your heroics. For starters, you have the luxury to choose from over 50 amazing heroes and customize your equipment to take on enemies. Along the way, you also get a chance to develop a variety of skills to stay ahead of your rivals.
As for fighting, you can either go solo or choose to get into the multiplayer mode on three different maps like 3v3, 5v5, and steampunk 5v5. For sheer domination, be sure to join hands with your friends or other noted players from around the world. Since strategy plays a vital role, scout the map smartly to trap your enemies well before they can put you out of the game. With top-notch graphics and interesting gameplay, Heroes of Order & Chaos looks good for hours of fun.
- Multiplayer mode: Online mode or join a party with friends
- Download Heroes of Order & Chaos (Free)
(MMORPG) Massively Multiplayer Online Role Playing Games for iPhone
8. AdventureQuest 3D
AdventureQuest 3D is a relatively new game in the MMORPG space, however, I truly believe that it is worth checking out and that it’s one of the best MMORPG games out there. At the heart of it, AdventureQuest 3D includes all the elements that a mobile MMORPG title would normally have. I am talking about different game modes like co-op and PvP modes with cross-platform support. You can also create your unique hero and go head-to-head with some of the best MMORPG villains and monsters.
I also love AdventureQuest 3D’s Parkour challenge maps. If that’s not your thing, then you can also transform into birds, dragons, and more. Needless to say, the game also offers some interesting modes in which you can raid dungeons or take on boss fight challenges. Despite being a freemium title, AdventureQuest 3D has a lot going for it. The cross-platform support is truly the highlight feature here for me. It weighs only 130MB in size, and it is compatible with iPhone, iPads, and iPod Touch running on iOS 8.0 and above.
- Multiplayer mode: Online mode or join a party with friends
- Download AdventureQuest 3D (Free)
9. Order & Chaos Online
Order & Chaos Online is one of the most acclaimed MMORPG titles that are available on iOS. The game will take you on an adventure ride with magical creatures in dark forests. You can choose to be a part of one of the five races, and you’ll find yourself discovering thousands of skills and equipment throughout your journey.
Order & Chaos Online is popularly known for its online community, in which you can interact with friends and even your enemies. You can also trade or challenge each other, which opens up a ton of opportunities in-game. If you’re planning to play this though, then PvP battlefield areas are the place to be. It’s a simple game mode in which you try to capture the opposing team’s flag and bring it back to your base to score. Sounds awesome, right? Well, that’s just a part of the fun, and there are a ton of other things to be explored in this game like quests, dungeons, and more.
- Multiplayer mode: Online only
- Download Order & Chaos Online (Free)
10. Black Desert Mobile
If you are hunting for an exciting fantasy MMORPG, “Black Desert Mobile” would be worth checking out. This game is a great mix of interesting gameplay and fast-paced action that can keep you hooked for hours of fun. Beyond combat, it also offers you the option to make a nice collection of loyal pets that can accompany you on your adventures.
And with a variety of tools at the disposal, you can customize your character to look stand out. Not to mention, there is also an option to indulge in some fun-loving fishing in between. Save it for the times where you want to get out of cut-throat combats for some peace of mind. To me, the best part about this game is the high-fidelity graphics and smooth performance. Being just 99.8MB in size, it also doesn’t hog plenty of storage either, unlike many other MMORPGs.
- Multiplayer mode: Online only
- Download Black Desert Mobile (Free)
Multiplayer Strategy Games for iPhone
If you’re not into MOBA and MMORPG games, then I’ve got a couple of amazing strategy games for you as well. Let’s check them out –
11. Clash Royale
You may have heard of Clash of Clans before. Well, if you have, then you’ve got to introduce yourself to Clash Royale as well. Clash Royale is a card-based strategy game that’s inspired from Clash of Clans. It is all about collecting and upgrading your cards featuring troops, spells, and heroes from Clash of Clans.
The best part of Clash Royale is the ability to build your own battle community. Yes, you can build your own community and fight enemies to bring their clans down. Clash Royale is all about teamwork, which makes it one of the best multiplayer games you can add to your library. However, if you like to play as a one-man army, then you can also challenge your friends for a private duel, which is equally fun.
- Multiplayer mode: Online and private 1v1 duels with friends
- Download Clash Royale (Free)
12. Hearthstone
Hearthstone is Blizzard’s award-winning card battler. The game, just like any other card-based strategy games, lets you collect cards and use them to cast spells and control the battlefield. You can choose to play a solo mode against AI heroes, however, you’ll have to dive into 1v1 matches against other players online to experience the game to its fullest potential.
Building your deck and honing your skills may seem like a lot of work at first. But once you do that and get started with the battles, there’s hardly anything that’s going to stop you. I’ve spent countless hours in this game, and I can confidently say that Hearthstone is indeed one of the best multiplayer games out there. It’s also a free-to-play title, so be sure to check it out.
- Multiplayer mode: Online 1v1 or against a friend
- Download Hearthstone (Free)
13. War Machines
As someone who relishes getting into online multiplayer tank battles, I have found War Machines exciting. Probably the best part about this strategy game is the nerve-wracking gameplay, where you are up against legions of commanders from around the world. Another notable feature is the wide range of devastating tanks that allow you to unleash mayhem on your enemies.
But keep in mind, your enemies are also keeping a tab on each of your moves. So, never fail to come with a killer strategy that can help you outsmart your opponents. Along the way, you can also upgrade your tanks to stay ahead of the rivals. If you want to go for some more personalized experience, there are numerous decals and patterns to let you make your tanks look stand out.
- Multiplayer mode: Online and team-based battles
- Download War Machines (Free)
Multiplayer Racing Games for iPhone
Apple’s App Store is filled with a ton of awesome racing games, but here are a couple of my favorite ones, which I think deserves a place in your library of games –
14. Asphalt 9 Legends
The Asphalt series has some of the best racing games on mobile phones, and Asphalt 9 Legends is no exception. In fact, it’s probably the best among the Asphalt games, in my opinion. In addition to career mode, the game also features a ton of unique challenges and limited time events that are a lot of fun to play.
It is also worth pointing out that Asphalt 9 Legends has a great vehicle selection, probably one of the best among all the smartphone racing games out there. Couple that with a robust online multiplayer mode, and you have a winner right here. The highlight of the game for me is the new ‘Touch Drive’ button controls. It makes the game feel a lot better in comparison to other Asphalt games in the series.
- Multiplayer mode: Online only
- Download Asphalt 9 Legends (Free)
15. Riptide GP: Renegade
If you are not into cars, then you must check out Riptide GP: Renegade. As a part of Riptide series, this game lets you ride wave runners instead of cars, and it’s indeed a lot of fun. The game also has gorgeous graphics and unique mechanics that make up for a fun-filled gameplay experience.
Riptide GP: Renegade’s online multiplayer mode is very underrated in my opinion. It lets you put your skills to test against opponents from around the world in 8-player online matches. It gets really intense as you’ll be called out for death-defying stunts over massive waterfalls, public waterways, and more. Riptide GP: Renegade is a paid title, however, it’s definitely the best action-arcade water racer out there, and I highly recommend you give it a shot.
- Multiplayer mode: Online & split-screen multiplayer mode
- Download Riptide GP: Renegade ($2.99)
16. Real Racing 3
For those looking for wicked fast racing, “Real Racing 3” appears to be a top bet. Featuring a massive collection of more than 250 vehicles from famous manufacturers including Aston Martin, McLaren, Koenigsegg, Pagani, Ford, and more, the game offers you the luxury to choose from a variety of speed machines. That’s not all, you also have the choice to race on 19 different tracks in many configurations from famous worldwide locations like Hockenheimring, Le Mans, Dubai Autodrome, Yas Marina, etc.
The game allows you to take part in more than 4000 events such as Formula 1 Grands Prix, cup races, eliminations, and endurance where you can put your racing skill on full display. And if you do well, it will offer you plenty of coveted rewards apart from ranking you higher on the leaderboard. So, what’s stopping you from burning the rubber in the fast-paced racing?
- Multiplayer mode: Online
- Download Real Racing 3 (Free)
Multiplayer Sports Games for iPhone
Regardless of the number of games you have on your phone, a game library is always incomplete without some sports games. So here are a couple of multiplayer sports games that are worth checking out –
17. FIFA Football
Electronic Arts needs no introduction when it comes to sports games, does it? The studio is known for some of the best sports titles on the market, with FIFA being on the top. FIFA on the App Store offers the most authentic football experience on iOS. The game features hundreds of licensed teams with thousands of players online.
FIFA Football’s real-time PvP mode will put you in a head-to-head battle against the opponents from around the globe. The game also lets you create your own team, and you can build your roster with players from over 550 real teams. Heck, you can even tweak tactics of each player before every match. Be it League vs League tournaments or inter-league championships, FIFA Football has a game mode for everyone.
If you are someone who doesn’t like EA’s FIFA, then you may also want to try Konami’s Pro Evolution Soccer (PES) 2019 (Free).
- Multiplayer mode: Online and invite-only PvP matches
- Download FIFA Football (Free)
18. NBA JAM
BOOMSHAKALAKA! NBA JAM has known to be one of the most popular sports game since the early ’90s, so I had to add this game to the list of best multiplayer games for iPhone. The game lets you jam with all 30 NBA teams and your favorite NBA stars. You can unlock some legendary players like Scottie Pippen, Detlef Schrempf, Dennis Rodman, and more.
Although NBA JAM only has a local multiplayer mode, I highly recommend you give it a shot. You can also unlock outrageous cheats and go against a friend for a classic arcade battle. The game also offers two different control schemes like D-Pad or Gesture-based controls. I personally prefer D-Pad controls, as it gives me the classic arcade vibes, but it’s great that you get the option to choose your own playing style. You should definitely check out NBA JAM.
- Multiplayer mode: Both online and local multiplayer
- Download NBA JAM ($4.99)
19. Golf Battle
If you are fond of golf, you would really love this game. And even if you aren’t a big fan of golf, you would start liking it. That’s how interesting this game is. Thanks to the smooth controls and fun-filled gameplay, it can easily get into your skin. As for the rule of the game, it’s as straightforward as it sounds. Simply beat your rivals to the hole.
It has multiple game modes like classic and rush modes. In the classic mode, you have to reach the hole in the fewest possible shots. And in the rush mode, you have to get to the hole as quickly as possible. Moreover, you can choose to play this game with just one friend or head into a more challenging competition with up to six players. Not to mention, Golf Battle also offers you a chance to win prizes and even robust golf gear.
- Multiplayer mode: 6-player online multiplayer
- Download Golf Battle (Free)
Multiplayer Simulation Games for iPhone
20. Minecraft
Minecraft is one of the first games that I started my PC gaming journey with, so I had to add it to this list. The mobile version of the game, unlike other mobile ports, is basically the same as the desktop and console versions. In fact, you can play Minecraft even on servers with people who are playing the game on PC and consoles.
If you’ve never heard of Minecraft before, it is a sandbox game where you mine items, destroy them and put on your creative hat. The game, as you can see, has 8-bit graphics, however, that’s the Minecraft that I’ve come to like. So, no complaints there.
Minecraft also lets you create your own Minecraft Realms, which are your own always-online Minecraft world. You will, however, have to get a monthly subscription, the prices for which depends on the number of people you want to invite to play in your realm simultaneously.
- Multiplayer mode: Online only
- Download Minecraft ($6.99)
21. Brutal Age: Horde Invasion
Even though I’m not fond of the beast hunting simulation game, Brutal Age has won me over. And, I guess the story could well be the same with you as well. The game is all about building and expanding your territory while ensuring your rivals’ territories stay limited. To get going, select your horde and fully equip it with the needed arsenals.
Furthermore, you can train more than 15 different barbarian clan troops and use them strategically to stay ahead in the battle. And yes, it also allows you to team up with your friends for a hard-fought battle. With the challenging gameplay and plenty of customization options, this beast hunting simulation game will never fail to impress you.
- Multiplayer mode: Online
- Download Brutal Age: Horde Invasion (Free)
Multiplayer Action Games for iPhone
Action Games and multiplayer titles are like bread and butter, so there’s no way I was going to end the list without recommending a few. Here are three action-packed multiplayer games which I think are absolutely worth playing –
22. PUBG Mobile (or Battlegrounds Mobile India)
As I had mentioned earlier, PUBG Mobile has become a household name when it comes to multiplayer games. The game now has a strong community with millions of players across the globe. Each PUBG Mobile game match starts off in a plane from which you are dropped on an island with up to 99 other players.
Your goal is to collect weapons and other supplies, kill the rest of the players and be the last man standing. You do all that while making sure that you are inside the play area. Well, I’ve been playing PUBG Mobile since the day it arrived, and I can confidently say that you’ll have a great time battling it out for that Chicken Dinner!
Do note that PUBG Mobile’s Indian version is called Battlegrounds Mobile India, so if you’re in India, you will not be able to find PUBG Mobile on the App Store.
- Multiplayer mode: Online or play with friends in a private room
- Download PUBG Mobile (Free)
- Download Battlegrounds Mobile India (Free)
23. Fortnite
If we are talking about PUBG Mobile, there’s no way we can miss out on its fiercest rival Fortnite. Well, it certainly has taken the game industry by storm and has now become a worldwide phenomenon. It’s an excellent title, where the basics remain the same as any other battle royale game, but the gameplay here is cartoonish and fun in comparison to PUBG Mobile’s real-life vibe.
It’s not the quirky gameplay that makes Fortnite so much fun, to be honest, but instead the building element that makes fights more interesting. I’ve been playing Fortnite since it first landed on iOS earlier this year and the game has managed to keep me glued with its interesting stories, outfits, emotes, and all the seasons.
- Multiplayer mode: Online only
- Download Fortnite (Free)
24. Modern Combat 5
Modern Combat games have always been considered to be the Call of Duty equivalent games for mobile phones. Thanks to the fast-paced gameplay, I am a huge fan of the Modern Combat series myself. And much like the previous Modern Combat titles, the new Modern Combat 5 is also equally good if not any better.
The best part of the game is that it lets you choose between 9 customizable classes that you can level up across single and multiplayer modes. You can also activate class-specific skills by burning your skill points.
The multiplayer mode of Modern Combat 5, in particular, is spectacular. I find myself coming back to this game just for its epic team clashes. If you are not into those, you can also put your name in the leaderboard by taking on players individually (player vs. squad). The game also offers highly customizable and intuitive controls, making it easier to go on a killing spree.
- Multiplayer mode: Online and local multiplayer mode over WiFi
- Download Modern Combat 5 (Free)
25. Call of Duty Mobile
“Call of Duty Mobile” is the latest sensation on the gaming horizon. And rightly so as the game has got all sorts of ammunition to offer a thrilling experience. Just like most battle royale games, it also pits 100 players in the last man standing battle. And the one who succeeds in decimating everyone else becomes the champion.
Moreover, COD has also got other pretty impressive goodies including the action-packed 5v5 team deathmatch and the zombies survival mode which is extremely challenging. With fully customizable controls, the game promises to deliver console-quality gaming experience on iPhone and iPad. And it does live up to the claim to a good extent.
On the customization front, I find COD up to the mark thanks to a variety of outfits, pieces of gear, scorestreaks, and of course tons of well-known characters. So, you can fully-tune your character to look different on the battlefield.
- Multiplayer mode: 100 player Battle Royale, action-packed 5v5 team deathmatch
- Download Call of Duty Mobile (Free)
What Are Your Favorite Multiplayer Games?
Well, that ends our list of the best multiplayer games for iPhone. PUBG Mobile, Minecraft, and 8 Ball Pool are some of my favorite games, which I’ve been playing for a long time. If you think I missed your favorite title, then be sure to drop a comment down below, and I’ll check it out myself. Also, let us know which of these games tickled your fancy.
