Best new mobile games on iOS and Android: July 2026 round-up

As I sat in my air-conditioned office, I couldn't help but notice the sweltering heat outside. It's July after all, and the scorching temperatures have made it the perfect excuse to stay indoors and indulge in some thrilling mobile games. The latest batch of releases on iOS and Android has something for everyone, from detective games to auto-battlers, and even an Advance Wars clone. Among these, a few titles caught my attention, and I'm excited to share my thoughts on them.

Mini Murder Mysteries, developed by Bunkworks, is a delightful detective game that's perfect for a lazy summer afternoon. The game's interface is elegantly designed, with crowded evidence boards that invite you to tap and explore. Your task is to solve nine mini mysteries by collecting and analyzing clues, which can be a bit challenging, but also incredibly rewarding. The game's structure is well-thought-out, with predefined words in statements that you need to fill in with the clues you've collected. This approach requires a mix of deduction and trial-and-error, making the experience engaging and immersive. However, I did find the placement of the 'reveal answer' button next to the check button to be a bit of a design misstep, as it's all too easy to accidentally spoil the case. Still, with a bit of care, you can enjoy a couple of hours of lightweight sleuthing.

Auto-battlers have been gaining momentum in the mobile gaming scene, and Rift Wars: Merge Arena is a prime example of this genre. With its free-to-play model, this game offers an engaging experience that's perfect for fans of tactics and strategy. The game's mechanics are straightforward, with players controlling units and merging them to create more powerful ones. The game's visuals are colorful and vibrant, with a user-friendly interface that makes it easy to navigate. While I haven't had a chance to dive deep into the game's multiplayer mode, the single-player experience is already quite engaging.

Sky Lobby, developed by Moya Labs, is another game that caught my attention. This game has a uniquely minimalist interface, with a focus on building and controlling lifts in a series of tall buildings. The game's subject matter is unusual, but the gameplay is surprisingly engaging. Players must transport colored shapes to their target floors before their impatience meters fill and end the run. The simplicity of tapping floors to move lifts is complemented by AI-controlled passengers who automatically jump aboard any lifts going towards their destination floor. The game's musical tones and effective visuals are reminiscent of Mini Metro and its sequel, and I found myself getting lost in the game's soothing atmosphere.

• Mini Murder Mysteries is a detective game developed by Bunkworks, available on iOS for £1.99.
• Rift Wars: Merge Arena is a free-to-play auto-battler available on both iOS and Android.
• Sky Lobby is a game developed by Moya Labs, available on both iOS and Android, with a full game available for £4.99.

As I reflect on the games I've played, I'm struck by the diversity and creativity that's on offer. There's something for everyone in this latest batch of releases. As the summer heat continues, I'll be indulging in these games, and I'm excited to see what other hidden gems the world of mobile gaming has in store for us.