If you were hoping for a laid-back, relaxing, and happy weekend, I've got some tough news for you. The surprise release of the critically acclaimed games, Lisa: The Painful and Lisa: The Joyful, just before the weekend, is anything but. Now available on Android, these games are set to deliver a direct hit to your heart with their harrowing yet engaging RPG experience.
Set in the post-apocalyptic world of Olathe, you step into the shoes of Brad Armstrong, who is on a quest to reunite with his adoptive daughter, Buddy. You'll face a series of dismal moral choices that will test your resolve and shape your journey. While the concept of a soul-crushingly depressing RPG might seem off-putting at first, the Lisa series is renowned for blending enjoyable gameplay with an ethically challenging and compelling narrative. It's not for the faint-hearted, but if you're up for the challenge, it could be exactly what you've been searching for.
This is gonna' hurt
In practical terms, the Lisa series isn't as confrontational as its story might suggest. The gameplay remains straightforward, following a classic turn-based RPG format where you recruit a squad of companions to join you on your journey and engage in battles with various foes. However, be warned: your companions are not as durable as you are, and certain instant kill moves by enemies or other events can permanently remove them from your roster. The mobile versions belong to the Definitive Edition collection, which brings new mechanics, crisp HD visuals, and other enhancements to the table.
If you're looking to expand your RPG palate and perhaps want something a bit less intense after experiencing Lisa, consider exploring our list of the top 25 best RPGs for iOS and Android. It's all in one place to help you find the perfect game for your next adventure.