What are the best offline, immersive mobile games for a long flight in 2025?

[JerryC]

I'm about to embark on a long international flight and need to load up my phone with some engaging games that work well offline, but I'm tired of the typical match-three puzzles and hyper-casual titles filled with ads. I'm looking for the best mobile games 2025 has to offer in terms of deep, immersive experiences, whether they're premium single-player RPGs, intricate strategy games, or narrative-driven adventures. For fellow gamers who prioritize quality over freemium mechanics, what are your current top picks that have substantial playtime, compelling gameplay loops, and don't require a constant internet connection? I'm particularly interested in hidden gems from smaller studios that might not be topping the grossing charts but offer unique mechanics or storytelling.