Lisa: The Painful and Joyful Surprise Android 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. These games are set in the post-apocalyptic world of Olathe, where you'll follow Brad Armstrong on his emotionally charged quest to reunite with his adoptive daughter, Buddy.

While the idea of diving into a soul-crushingly depressing RPG might sound daunting, 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 take the plunge, it could be the intense experience you've been seeking.

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 warned: your companions are not 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, come with new mechanics, crisp HD visuals, and other enhancements to enrich your experience.

If you're looking to expand your RPG palate and perhaps want something a bit less intense, check out our list of the top 25 best RPGs for iOS and Android, all in one place.