Lisa: The Painful and Joyful Now on Android in Surprise Release

If you were hoping for a laid-back, relaxing, and happy weekend, I've got some bad news for you. The surprise release of two critically acclaimed games, Lisa: The Painful and Lisa: The Joyful, now available on Android, might just pull you into a harrowing yet engaging RPG experience. Set in the post-apocalyptic world of Olathe, you'll follow Brad Armstrong on his quest to reunite with his adoptive daughter, Buddy, facing dismal moral choices along the way.

While the idea of a soul-crushingly depressing RPG might sound off-putting, the Lisa series is renowned for blending genuinely enjoyable gameplay with an ethically challenging and engaging narrative. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're willing to give it a chance, it could be exactly what you've been looking for.

In practical terms, Lisa isn't as confrontational as its story might suggest. The gameplay follows a straightforward turn-based RPG format, where you recruit a squad of companions to join you on your journey and battle various foes. However, be cautious—your companions aren't as durable as you, and certain instant kill moves by enemies or other events can permanently remove them from your roster. The mobile versions, part of the Definitive Edition collection, feature new mechanics, crisp HD visuals, and other enhancements.

Looking to expand your RPG palate? If Lisa gives you a taste for turn-based battles but you're seeking something a bit softer, check out our list of the top 25 best RPGs for iOS and Android, all in one place.