Cytus II

Cytus II is a rhythm game from studio Rayark, who also made Deemo, this time set in a futuristic world built around a music streaming system called Cytus and the intertwined fates of several main characters, whose stories unfold in parallel through their own song playlists. The player taps, holds, and drags a finger across notes that appear on several paths spanning the entire screen including its edges, while higher difficulties require precise coordination of both hands and quick shifts of attention between distant points on the display – it's one of the technically most demanding mobile rhythm games ever, rewarding patient practice and gradually raising the difficulty on favorite songs. Adjustable note-fall speed and the visual style of individual performers also give the player room to tailor the game to their own pace.

The music library combines electronic and pop tracks from a range of composers from Asia and abroad, and the story unfolds through short comic-style sequences between songs, giving the gameplay a narrative frame often missing from competing titles. The free-to-play model offers basic songs for free, with additional song and character packs bought individually or in bundles, but the game can be completed and fully enjoyed even without major investment in the library. Regular updates add new story chapters and songs, so even years after release the game continues to live on through an active community of leaderboards and competitions.

Why play it: For more experienced rhythm game players who want more demanding note charts for both hands, plus an elaborate sci-fi story on top of the music itself.