"Lisa: The Painful & Joyful Surprise Android Release"

If you were hoping for a laid-back, relaxing, and happy weekend, I've got some bad news for you. With the surprise release of two hit games, Lisa: The Painful and Lisa: The Joyful, now available on Android just before the weekend, we'd be disappointed if you *didn't* dive in and take a direct hit right to the heart.

Set in the post-apocalyptic world of Olathe, you'll be faced with all manner of dismal moral choices as you follow Brad Armstrong on his quest to reunite with his adoptive daughter, Buddy. While the idea of a soul-crushingly depressing RPG experience may sound a little off-putting, the Lisa series is well-regarded for mixing genuinely enjoyable gameplay with an ethically challenging and engaging story. It's not necessarily for the faint of heart, but if you're willing to give it a chance, it may be exactly what you've been looking for.

In practical terms, however, Lisa isn't quite as confrontational as it might seem. While the story and choices are complex, the gameplay is as straightforward as a regular turn-based RPG. You'll recruit a squad of companions to accompany you on your journey, facing off against various foes along the way. But be careful—unlike you, these companions aren't as durable, and certain instant kill moves by enemies or other events can permanently remove them from your roster. The mobile versions are part of the Definitive Edition collection, featuring new mechanics, crisp HD visuals, and other improvements.

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