The 5 Best Free Android Games

There are times when you need practical applications for your Android phone (like finance, GPS or fitness apps), but there are other times when you just need to play a fun game to unwind. There are countless games available to choose from, and many of these Android games are completely free.

If you ever feel like killing some time with a high-quality, free game for Android phones, here are some great ones to consider:

Sketch Online (Beta) The concept behind Sketch Online couldn't be simpler; it's essentially Pictionary, played on your Android phone. You can play against online competitors and put your drawing and guessing skills to the test. Sketch Online is surprisingly addictive and easy to learn. The best part of the game is that the beta version of Sketch Online is completely free.

Cestos Another game that will allow you to challenge other people online is Cestos. This game is really simple as well, and equally addictive. In Cestos, you're pitted against other players in an attempt to push their virtual "marbles" out of play. Multiplayer Android games like Cestos are much more fun and unpredictable than playing against a computer opponent. As an added feature, Cestos has its own community, complete with friends lists and chat rooms.

Gem Miner Gem Miner is a great strategy game for Android, and that separates it from the normal array of arcade-type games available. Dig for gems, manage your supplies and buy upgrades to make the most of your time underground. Gem Miner is great for anyone who loves sim-type games, but be warned-it's incredibly addictive.

Abduction! Abduction! is perhaps the most colorful, quirky game on this list. Abduction! is a fun, amazingly responsive platform-jumping game that is absolutely exhilarating to play. Even novice gamers can appreciate the bright hand-drawn graphics and the off-the-wall premise that features aliens, cows with parachutes and a number of colorful worlds.

Frozen Bubble I'd be remiss not to include this simple, addictive arcade game for Android. Frozen Bubble is nearly exactly like a number of games which have come before it: you score points by destroying groups of same-colored bubbles. What makes this game special is the bright graphics and the ability to progress through the levels. Another bonus is the game's simplicity. There are no bells and whistles here; it's just what you'd expect from this type of game, which is what makes it great.

Sources:
Psym Mobile -- Gem Miner
Psym Mobile -- Abduction!
Frozen Bubble
Chickenbrick Studios -- Cestos
Sketch Online (Beta)