Osmos, the acclaimed cell-absorbing puzzle game, returns to Android! Previously removed due to playability issues stemming from outdated porting technology, it's back with a completely revamped port from developer Hemisphere Games.
For those unfamiliar, Osmos is a unique, award-winning puzzle where you absorb smaller organisms while avoiding larger ones. Its simple yet engaging gameplay made it a hit, but Android users were left in the dark for years following its initial, unplayable release in 2010.
Hemisphere Games explains in a blog post that the original Android port, created with Apportable, became difficult to update after Apportable's closure. The game was subsequently removed from the Google Play Store due to incompatibility with modern Android systems (only running on now-obsolete 32-bit systems). This new release features a fully rebuilt port, ensuring compatibility with current Android devices.
A Cellular Masterpiece
If our enthusiastic reviews of Osmos (on both iOS and Android) and its numerous awards haven't convinced you, the gameplay trailer above should seal the deal. Osmos' innovative mechanics have, ironically through a process of osmosis, influenced countless subsequent games. Its pre-social media release is almost a missed opportunity; its captivating gameplay would undoubtedly be a viral sensation on platforms like TikTok.
Osmos offers a nostalgic yet rewarding experience. It represents a bygone era of mobile gaming where innovation seemed boundless – an era many hope to see return.
While Osmos stands out for its beautiful aesthetics, many other excellent mobile puzzle games exist. For a broader selection, explore our list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android.