20 Free Games to Play While Waiting for Genshin Impact Updates

As a dedicated Genshin Impact player since its launch, I've experienced firsthand the incredible journey through Teyvat. The breathtaking anime-style open world, the engaging action combat, and the rich character stories have captivated millions worldwide. But let's be honest—after exhausting the available content and waiting for new regions like Inazuma, haven't we all found ourselves staring at the login screen, wondering what to do next? The gacha system, while exciting, can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when the coveted 5-star characters remain elusive despite countless wishes.

That's when I discovered there's a whole universe of free-to-play games offering similar experiences without draining my wallet. These games have perfected their free-to-play models over years, providing satisfying alternatives when I need a break from Genshin's grinding. Let me share my discoveries with you—20 fantastic free games that have kept me entertained during content droughts.

20. Azure Lane

What makes it special? As someone who loves naval history with an anime twist, Azure Lane immediately caught my attention. The game features personified battleships as charming characters across different factions. The side-scrolling shooter gameplay feels refreshingly different from Genshin's action combat, yet the RPG progression system feels familiar. Building my fleet and watching these shipgirls evolve has been incredibly satisfying.

Key Features:

• Side-scrolling shooter with RPG elements

• Character collection and progression system

• Available on both iOS and Android

• Regular events and updates

⚔️ 19. Raid: Shadow Legends

Why it's worth trying? When I first heard about Raid: Shadow Legends, I was skeptical—until I tried it. The dark fantasy setting provides a perfect contrast to Genshin's vibrant world. The turn-based combat system requires strategic thinking rather than quick reflexes, which makes for a nice change of pace. What really impressed me was the multi-platform availability; being able to switch between PC and mobile seamlessly is a game-changer.

Notable aspects:

• Dark fantasy storyline with surprising depth

• Cross-platform play between PC and mobile

• Regular character updates and events

• Stunning 3D graphics for a mobile game

💕 18. Date a Live: Spirit Pledge

The dating sim appeal: As someone who's always wanted more social interaction in Genshin Impact, Date a Live: Spirit Pledge satisfied that craving perfectly. The combination of dating simulation and RPG elements creates a unique experience. Going on dates with the characters while progressing through an engaging battle system based on the anime's story? It's like having the best of both worlds!

What stood out to me:

• Blend of dating sim and action RPG

• Faithful adaptation of the anime storyline

• Character relationship development system

• Regular content updates adding new dates and stories

🌟 17. Tales of Crestoria

For Tales series fans: Having played previous Tales games, I was excited to see how Crestoria would translate the series' charm to mobile. The answer? Exceptionally well! The turn-based combat maintains the strategic depth I love, while the original story featuring characters from across the franchise feels like a celebration of the series. The anime-style visuals are crisp and beautiful, making every battle a visual treat.

Highlights:

• Original story with franchise characters

• Polished turn-based combat system

• Stunning anime-style graphics

• Regular character additions from Tales series

😈 16. Disgaea RPG

The strategic depth: As a newcomer to the Disgaea universe, I was pleasantly surprised by the strategic complexity this mobile RPG offers. The quirky characters, especially the adorable Prinnies, immediately won me over. The multiple game modes provide varied experiences, ensuring there's always something new to try. Currently Android-only, but worth the wait if you're on iOS!

Why I keep coming back:

• Deep strategic turn-based combat

• Charming Disgaea universe characters

• Multiple engaging game modes

• Regular events and character updates

15. Dragalia Lost

Nintendo's mobile masterpiece: When Nintendo and Cygames collaborate, magic happens. Dragalia Lost's combat system feels incredibly accessible yet surprisingly deep. The regular collaborations with major IPs like Fire Emblem and Monster Hunter keep the content fresh and exciting. Having earned over $100 million, this game's quality is undeniable.

What makes it exceptional:

• Accessible yet deep action combat

• High-quality production values

• Major IP collaborations

• Engaging storyline and character development

14. Another Eden: The Cat Beyond Time And Space

A true single-player experience: What surprised me most about Another Eden was the complete absence of stamina systems and multiplayer requirements. Developed by veterans from Chrono Trigger and Xenogears, the game feels like a classic JRPG that just happens to be free. The time travel story is compelling, and the ability to play at my own pace without pressure is liberating.

Standout features:

• No stamina bars or timers

• Classic JRPG feel with modern quality

• Beautiful art style and soundtrack

• Respectful microtransaction approach

♟️ 13. Fire Emblem Heroes

Strategic brilliance: As a Fire Emblem fan, Heroes captures the essence of the main series perfectly. The tactical combat requires careful planning rather than quick button mashing. The constant addition of new heroes and events means there's always fresh content to explore. It's the perfect game for when I want to engage my brain rather than my reflexes.

Why it's addictive:

• Authentic Fire Emblem tactical combat

• Regular character additions from entire series

• Constant special events and challenges

• Easy to learn, hard to master gameplay

💀 12. Bleach: Brave Souls

Manga adaptation done right: With over 40 million downloads, Bleach: Brave Souls proves that quality adaptations can thrive. The hack-and-slash combat feels satisfyingly visceral, and the story mode faithfully recreates the manga's epic narrative. The inclusion of co-op and PVP options adds longevity beyond the main story.

What impressed me:

• Faithful Bleach universe adaptation

• Satisfying hack-and-slash combat

• Extensive character roster from manga

• Multiple game modes including co-op

👑 11. King's Raid

Generous free-to-play model: King's Raid stands out for its player-friendly approach. Unlike many gacha games, characters are relatively easy to obtain—the real challenge lies in equipment farming. This creates a satisfying progression system that rewards time investment rather than wallet size. The side-scrolling RPG action feels smooth and responsive.

Why it's F2P friendly:

• Generous character acquisition system

• Equipment-focused progression

• Fair microtransaction implementation

• Regular content updates and events

🎮 My Personal Experience & Recommendations

Having spent considerable time with each of these games, I've developed some personal preferences based on what I value most in mobile gaming:

For Story Lovers: Another Eden and Tales of Crestoria offer the most compelling narratives.

For Combat Enthusiasts: Dragalia Lost and Bleach: Brave Souls provide the most satisfying action.

For Strategy Fans: Fire Emblem Heroes and Disgaea RPG deliver deep tactical gameplay.

For Collection Focused Players: Azure Lane and King's Raid offer generous character systems.

📊 Comparison Table: Finding Your Perfect Match

💫 Final Thoughts

Each of these games offers something unique while capturing elements that make Genshin Impact special. Whether you're looking for a temporary diversion or a new main game, there's something here for every type of player. The mobile gaming landscape in 2025 is richer than ever, and these titles represent the cream of the crop.

What surprised me most was how each game managed to put its own spin on the free-to-play model. Some focus on narrative depth, others on combat complexity, but all respect your time and investment. So the next time you find yourself waiting for that next Genshin update, why not give one of these gems a try? You might just discover your next favorite game!