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 Previously removed due to playability issues stemming from outdated porting technology, it's back with a completely revamped port from developer Hemisphere Games.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 becoming prey yourself. Simple yet captivating, its intuitive gameplay made it a hit upon its initial release in 2010. Now, years later, it's finally optimized for modern Android devices.
Hemisphere Games explains in a blog post that the original Android port, developed with Apportable, became difficult to update after Apportable's closure. This resulted in Osmos' removal from the Google Play Store due to incompatibility with current (64-bit) Android systems. The new release features a completely rebuilt port, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.
A Cellular Masterpiece
If our praise and the game's numerous awards aren't enough, 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 debut is a missed opportunity; its gameplay would undoubtedly be a viral sensation on platforms like TikTok.
Osmos feels like a nostalgic gem, well worth revisiting. It represents a bygone era of mobile gaming where possibilities seemed limitless – an era many hope to see return.
While Osmos stands out for its elegant design, numerous other excellent mobile puzzle games are available. For a broader selection, explore our list of the top 25 best puzzle games for iOS and Android.