"Lisa: The Painful & Joyful Surprise Released on Android"

Author : Jonathan May 13,2025

If you were hoping for a laid-back, relaxing, and happy weekend, I've got some bad news for you. The release of two critically acclaimed games, Lisa: The Painful and Lisa: The Joyful, on mobile in a surprise drop right before the weekend means you're in for anything but. These games are not just a dive into gameplay; they're a direct hit to the heart.

Set in the post-apocalyptic world of Olathe, you'll step into the shoes of Brad Armstrong on a harrowing quest to reunite with his adoptive daughter, Buddy. The journey is filled with dismal moral choices that will challenge your ethics and keep you engaged throughout. While the idea of a soul-crushingly depressing RPG might seem off-putting, the Lisa series is celebrated for blending genuinely enjoyable gameplay with a deeply engaging and ethically challenging story. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you're willing to take the plunge, it might just be what you've been looking for.

This is gonna' hurtIn practical terms, however, Lisa isn't as confrontational as it sounds. The gameplay is as straightforward as any regular turn-based RPG, where you recruit a squad of companions to join you on your journey and battle various foes. But be warned, these companions are not as durable as you are, and certain instant kill moves or events can permanently remove them from your roster. The mobile versions are part of the Definitive Edition collection, boasting new mechanics, crisp HD visuals, and other improvements that enhance your experience.

Looking to expand your RPG palate? Maybe Lisa has given you a taste for turn-based battles, but you're looking for something a little softer? Well, check out our curated list of the top 25 best RPGs for iOS and Android, all in one place.