One of Japan’s most popular game awards has announced the winners in all its major categories. It’s the Appliv Best Mobile Game Award 2026. And Arknights: Endfield turned out to be one of the biggest winners this year.
Arknights: Endfield won the best game in two categories. They’re Gameplay & Innovation and Community & Engagement. The game, developed by Gryphline, was recognised for combining open-world RPG mechanics with factory automation systems and 3D action combat. Judges highlighted its large-scale visuals, saying the presentation felt closer to high-end PC productions.
For the Community & Engagement award, the judges credited the game’s pre-release campaigns, real-world event appearances, and promotional videos. Endfield’s dedicated SKPORT community app was also a contributor to the win.
Meanwhile, ACECRAFT and Chaos Zero Nightmare received Excellence Awards in Gameplay & Innovation. Other recognised winners in the Community & Engagement category included Shadowverse: Worlds Beyond and Pro Soccer Club o Tsukurou! 2026.
Outside of these categories, Puella Magi Madoka Magica: Magia Exedra won the Story & Narrative division. Other titles acknowledged there included Haruka: Beyond the Stream of Time Ryugu no Miko and Persona 5: The Phantom X. Lastly, the Marketing & Promotion category recognised Uma Musume Pretty Derby, The Battle Cats, and Brawl Stars.
The Appliv Best Mobile Game Award 2026 is not just about gameplay and features
The Appliv awards evaluates more than just whether a game is fun to play. Judges also look at things like storytelling, player communities, management strategy, and promotional impact. The judging panel included Japanese gaming journalists, editors, marketers, and producers.
The Appliv Best Mobile Game Award 2026 winners were announced today. The in-person ceremony is scheduled for June 3rd, 2026, during GAME FUTURE SUMMIT 2026 at Belle Salle Shibuya Garden in Tokyo. Learn more about it on the official website.
Also, be sure to read our news on JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure: Golden Spirit on Mobile.
