20 Best NVIDIA Shield Games in 2023

Last Updated on September 6, 2023 by Tim Wells

The NVIDIA Shield TV offers a wide array of games you can download from the Google Play Store.

Personally, that usually leads to games collecting virtual dust that I never get around to playing.

So if you want something that will get you hooked, here are the best games to play and stream on NVIDIA Shield in 2023. 

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Bridge Constructor Portal

Bridge Constructor Portal is a strategy puzzle game developed by ClockStone. It was released at the end of 2017 and is available on the NVIDIA Shield through the Google Play Store.

It’s the fifth installment of the Bridge Constructor series. This time, it is set in the universe of the award-winning Portal series.

While the game doesn’t fall into the continuity of Portal 1 & 2 games, it’s an excellent choice for the fans of that series who like strategic simulation games. It incorporates the elements of Portal, such as items, atmosphere, and robotic voice lines, into a Bridge Constructor game.

Bridge Constructor Portal is a 2D physics-based puzzle game. You can use various tools and utilities to get the “bendies” and their vehicles to a certain point while avoiding various obstacles and hazards.

Much like other titles in the Bridge Constructor series, the game provides a relaxed, pick-up-and-play experience perfect for anyone who wants to jump right into having fun.

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The Bard’s Tale

The Bard’s Tale is a masterful, irreverent, and occasionally raunchy subversion of the typical fantasy RPG game. 

As a kid, one of the first games I played on my Commodore 128 was 1986’s Bard’s Tale II: Destiny Knight. Needless to say, I was super excited when this game was announced. 

Released in 2004, The Bard’s Tale blessed us with its raunchy humor, fourth-wall-breaking protagonist, and some bizarre NPCs.

While not a remaster of the 1980s trilogy, there are definitely nods and inside jokes that fans of the original series will enjoy. This iteration of The Bard’s Tale ditches the turn-based combat for more hack ‘n’ slash gameplay while remaining a compelling RPG. 

Cary Elwes, best known for The Princess Bride, does a fantastic job voicing the main character. We follow the adventures of our reluctant hero as he encounters battles bosses, breaks barrels, and meets the occasional singing goblins.  

This is an older-style game, so the graphics look dated. Also, the trajectory of the POV camera can be wonky at times. 

That aside, this game is a great role-playing experience that makes you laugh uncontrollably. Just don’t take it too seriously.

It’s available for the NVIDIA Shield through the Google Play Store.

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Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance

Metal Gear Rising: Revengeance is fast-paced and reflex-intense. It’s a 3D hack ‘n’ slash developed by PlatinumGames and a spin-off to the Metal Gear Solid series.

The gameplay differs from previous titles in the series, as there’s more focus on combat. As a result, it plays more like Nier and Nier: Automata than a Metal Gear Solid game.

Once you hop into this game, the first thing you’ll notice is that you won’t be playing as Snake and hiding in a box like in the previous installments. 

Instead, you’ll assume control of the ninja cyborg “Raiden.” You’ll use your signature blade to slice through various enemies and bosses with a lot of button mashing. There are also a lot of QuickTime events to keep you on your toes.

This game’s other notable aspects are a great soundtrack, superior story writing, and fast-paced action. And, of course, the fan-favorite antagonist, Senator Steven Armstrong.

The only complaint people typically have is that there isn’t a sequel. Priced at $14.99, you can find this NVIDIA Shield game on the Google Play Store.

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Machinarium

Originally an Indie game by Amanita Design, Machinarium is a lovable, 2D side-scroller with a captivating art style and a steampunk setting.

You play as a robot, Josef, as you embark on a point-and-click adventure to save your girlfriend. You’ll solve numerous puzzles and minigames to further your journey in a hand-drawn world.

The gameplay is laid-back and artsy, but it translates well to the NVIDIA Shield.

It’s not particularly hard, but it’s not too easy. It’s one of those unforgettable encounters that you can only experience once. You’ll likely adore everything from its music to its story.

It’s not a long game, only clocking in at about 6 hours to finish it. At $5.99 on the Google Play Store, it’s certainly worth a playthrough.

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Jackbox Party Pack 3

Jackbox Party Pack 3 is a game to play with your friends in casual sessions.

 It’s not like an MMO or any other regular multiplayer experience; it’s just a bunch of different party games you can play on a Saturday night.

Think Cards Against Humanity but with slightly less dark humor. While it’s not quite as bad in terms of “edginess,” it’s tailored toward an older audience.

The best part about this one is that it’s meant to be played on a TV with a small group of friends, making it optimal for the NVIDIA Shield.

Consider adding this one to your library if you’re looking for a game to entertain your guests with hours of hysterical fun.

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Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR)

Historically, Star Wars games have usually been hit or miss, but Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic (KOTOR) is arguably one of their biggest hits.

Developed in 2003 by BioWare [Mass Effect, Dragon Age], KOTOR offers turn-based combat with fantastic voice acting and a compelling story. 

The NVIDIA Shield version in the Google Play Store is a complete transfer of the old Windows PC game and requires a gamepad.

KOTOR takes place roughly 4,000 years before the galactic empire (the original trilogy’s timeline). You play as a Republic soldier with no memory of their past, fighting against an armada of Sith. 

Knights of the Old Republic was widely regarded as one of the first games that gave the player choices that really mattered. While your ultimate goal is defeating the Sith Lord Malak, you must decide whether to embrace the Light or Dark Side of the Force. 

As you go, you get to explore ten different planets and ships while attempting to defeat hordes of enemies.

While the combat is interesting, it isn’t anything groundbreaking. This game is unique because of its riveting character-driven narrative and vast Sci-fi world. 

KOTOR is a game anyone can enjoy, even if you’re not a Star Wars fan.

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Turbo Dismount

If you’ve ever stumbled on a GrayStillPlays video, you’ve probably seen Turbo Dismount. It’s one of those games that takes ragdoll physics to a whole new level. 

It’s strange, and the graphics aren’t anything to write home about, but there’s something addictingly fun about it.

The objective of this game isn’t to avoid obstacles and protect the driver. It’s to cause as much damage as possible by designing dangerous levels. 

You’ll be creating scenarios that maximize destruction as opposed to minimizing it. You’ll have to get creative to develop cheeky obstacles.

Turbo Dismount has some over-the-top gameplay, but the wonky performance works in its favor. It’s like Fall Guys in how the characters bend in hilarious caricatures due to your actions.

It’s amusing and has an active community that constantly creates new user-generated levels to extend its playability.

Turbo Dismount requires a Bluetooth gamepad and is available for the NVIDIA Shield in the Google Play Store.

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Octodad: Dadliest Catch

Speaking of wonky physics-based games, Octodad: Dadliest Catch is truly an experience. 

Released in 2014 by indie developer Young Horses, Octodad follows the story of a simple father as he goes about his daily life. 

There isn’t anything special about him except that he’s a well-dressed octopus posing as a human. 

As such, he must do his best to fit in with his human wife and kids, unaware that he’s an octopus. Performing simple tasks such as turning off an alarm or throwing a ball is tricky and requires a gamepad. 

As you may have guessed, this game’s storyline is pure comedy. The sequences are nonsensical, while the controls are impossible. 

Octodad is fun for all ages and a game you’ll love. There’s just something endearing about a suit-wearing octopus trying to make ends meet.

Perhaps it’s something we can relate to in one way or another. At the end of the day, Ocotodad is a game we’ll never forget.

It’s available for the NVIDIA Shield through the Google Play Store.

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Real Racing 3

Real Racing 3 is an enjoyable racing game developed in 2013 by Firemonkeys studio and is now available on the NVIDIA Shield. 

It looks great, with 46 cars to choose from based on actual racing cars, giving it a sense of realism. Plus, there are a total of 45 circuits from around the world. Each course has a different background scenery and track design.

The game is free to play and requires a gamepad. However, remember that it is an EA game, which means in-game purchases are available. 

If you don’t want to shell out any cash, you can expect a slower start to the game. Despite this, it still stands tall as one of the best mobile racing games.

Whether you’re a car geek or love racing games, this game delivers something you don’t want to miss out on.

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Oddmar

Released in 2017 by MobGe Limited, Oddmar is an underrated game. 

Quite simply, this is a 2D platformer done to perfection. 

In Oddmar, you play as a Viking who is banned from Valhalla. Luckily, you’re given a chance to redeem yourself. With a new goal in mind, you go on a quest to achieve glory and earn your place in Valhalla.

The first thing you’ll notice about Oddmar is its campy and unique art. The style is cute and unserious, with tons of fun quips and rowdy banter.

It controls well (gamepad required) and has a plethora of savvy animations that make moving and slaying enemies rewarding. 

Don’t expect too much in the way of lore for this one.

The game’s main attraction is the beautiful scenery of your journey as it moves and breathes along with you. Despite being 2D, the world of Oddmar is vibrant, full of life, and looks great running on the NVIDIA Shield.

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Half-Life 2

Half-Life 2’s influence on pop culture is undeniable. Despite being released almost 20 years ago, and ported to the NVIDIA Shield in 2014, it still holds up today.

Thankfully, newcomers can now play it on NVIDIA Shield to see why fans waited for the third installment for 16 years. We finally received one with Half-Life: Alyx.

Half-Life 2 was made by Valve and had some of the best storytelling gaming ever seen, and it is even considered one of the greatest games of all time.

You are Gordon Freeman, and your goal is to escape an underground bunker. You must do this while surviving an alien invasion bent on destroying humanity.

With over 50 Game of the Year awards, it has some of the most innovative controls for first-person shooters (even by today’s standards). 

Yeah, it’s a bit older. But as we said, it still holds up and is a worthwhile experience for new and old fans alike.

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Riptide GP: Renegade

Riptide GP: Renegade is a slick, waterjet racing game with waves to catch and tons of mid-air stunts to perform.

Like in Real Racing 3, there’s a wide variety of visually pleasing maps to race on. There’s a multitude of race events, boss fights, and minigames. 

It’s a strange mix of things for a racing game, but it works.

You’ll gain in-game currency to spend on upgrades and aesthetics along the way. In addition, Real Racing 3 has split-screen multiplayer and leaderboards so that you can compete with your friends.

It’s action-packed, looks great, and runs with a very smooth FPS rate on the NVIDIA Shield. It’s a great sequel to the franchise’s first two games and well worth your time.

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ClusterTruck

ClusterTruck was developed by Landfall Games and released in 2016. It was well-received by the public for its soundtrack and addictive gameplay. 

Specifically optimized for the NVIDIA Shield, ClusterTruck is a stylistic platformer mixed with Temple Run game mechanics and the chaos of a Crash Bandicoot game.

You’ll play through a world of pure chaos as you try to get from point A to point B. Avoid flying trucks, random explosions, and a myriad of unrelenting obstacles.

It’s a mix of great music, insanity, and trucks. If this is what you’re after, ClusterTruck was made for you. 

This game is challenging but fun nonetheless.

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Portal

Developed by Valve and launched in 2007, Portal received an overwhelmingly positive reception from critics and players. It has influenced many new games ever since and remains a staple of first-person puzzle games.

If the title has eluded you all these years, here’s the synopsis: you play Chell, a woman trapped in a lab. You’re forced by a robotic voice to solve various puzzles with the acclaimed portal gun. 

Through its seemingly harmless premise, you’ll be surprised by the depth of the plot and taken aback by the many twists and turns.

As with every other entry on this list, we won’t spoil it further. Just know that the gameplay is exceptional, and the story is brimming with anticipation.

The cake may be a lie, but this recommendation is not. Portal has become one of Valve’s most popular games on the NVIDIA Shield.

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The Talos Principle

Okay, maybe you’ve played Portal already and loved it. It’s a great game, but even with the sequel, you probably won’t be satisfied with the amount of playtime you’ll get.

For those of you looking to expand your gaming repertoire, I suggest The Talos Principle. 

It’s a first-person puzzle-solving game similar to Portal.

However, it takes place in its own non-linear world. The Talos Principle is one of those deep, thought-provoking games that’ll keep you wondering about the world you’re thrust into.

You’ll solve over 120 puzzles and explore a beautiful sci-fi world that looks amazing on the NVIDIA Shield TV.

Every choice you make will carve your path through the game, so each playthrough is completely different.

The game’s lore can be confusing, and the puzzles quite challenging, but don’t let that stop you from experiencing this masterpiece.

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Death Road to Canada

Death Road to Canada is a wacky, pixelated hack ‘n’ slash game set in a zombie-infested, apocalyptic world. It doesn’t need the raw power of the NVIDIA Shield, but it’s an entertaining game nonetheless.

You can control many avatars, such as pugs and magical fairies. You will also have an extensive arsenal of flamethrowers, wands, and guns at your disposal. 

The game revolves around reaching Canada as you fight through vast hordes of enemies, complete specific tasks, and find valuable loot.

It’s a zombie game, but don’t expect gritty, horror-filled gameplay like Zomboid Project. It’s more like Dead Rising 3 in its atmosphere.

There are many zany interactions with NPCs. Also, the environment is constantly changing. It’s an older-style game with a modern twist and plenty of fun overall.

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This War of Mine

Made by 11Bit Studio in 2014, This War of Mine is a war survival game acclaimed for its heartbreaking story and dark themes.

This War of Mine focuses more on the disturbing realities of war rather than some thrilling shootout, as most FPS games depict. 

You will take control of a group of civilians in this 2D side-scrolling game and face tough choices.

Gameplay is like a zombie survival game where you have to manage people and resources, but with a dark twist in the actuality of war.

The set design is fantastic, yet horrific, serving as a sad reminder of how war can affect everyday people. There are many war-torn areas to explore and ghastly undertones.

While this may seem too dark and gloomy, the game is still worth playing. It delivers an emotional ride with smooth gameplay that will make you empathize with the game’s characters and care for their survival.

This game is available for the NVIDIA Shield on the Google Play Store.

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Happy Wheels 

You’ve probably heard of Happy Wheels. 

You know, that old flash game where people explode into a billion different pieces when you fail to get them to the other side—that one. 

Another GrayStillPlay’s favorite, you can now play it on your NVIDIA Shield, and it hasn’t lost any of its charm.

Take your character on a ride as you do your best to handle funky vehicles such as a jet-powered wheelchair or an electric shopping cart. 

To make your task even harder, you must avoid all obstacles like wrecking balls, harpoons, and more. You may also find it difficult to operate the wonky controls.

Prepare yourself for a mixed bag of emotions with this one. You’ll experience joy and frustration doing your best to complete the many different developer and user-generated levels.

*Note that this game isn’t available in the Google Play Store, so you must sideload it on your NVIDIA Shield.

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Life is Strange (Remastered)

Life is Strange is back with completely overhauled and enhanced graphics in this remastered version.

Initially released in 2015 by Square Enix, Life is Strange is a choice-based adventure game. 

You’ll assume control of the high school student Max Caulfield as you rediscover a forgotten relationship with your childhood friend. 

Through your camera lens, you’ll seek to uncover the dark secrets of Blackwell Academy.

The gameplay revolves around your character’s ability to reverse time and has elements of a puzzle-solving strategy.  

The soundtrack is sublime and blends perfectly with the world. It’s a mix of indie and pop-rock with tons of acoustics. The lyrics also have a certain symbolism for what’s going on during the game.

Life is Strange is compelling, endearing, and heartfelt to play, whether you’re here for the music or the excellent storytelling.

*Note: This game isn’t available in the Play Store but can be played on NVIDIA GeForce Now.

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Rocket League

It’s a soccer game but with cars.

And it’s pretty addictive.

Rocket League lets you take control of rocket-boosted cars as you jump through the air and try to hit an oversized ball into your opponent’s goal, whether they are other players or the AI.

It’s one of those games that’s a little hard to learn but completely worth it when you can perform impressive-looking moves to score a goal.

When playing Rocket League, it’s best not to consider physics because they don’t really make sense or exist. 

It’s really only about winning and looking cool while doing so.

Despite being released in 2015, Rocket League is still extremely popular, with a healthy player base., which shows just how fun the game is.

*Note: Rocket League isn’t available in the Google Play Store, but NVIDIA Shield users can play it on GeForce Now. Gamepad required.