iMessage allows iPhone users to send text messages via an internet connection through Wi-Fi or cellular data. You know you're using iMessage when your text bubbles are blue. But iMessage isn't just for texting—you can also use it to play games with your friends. Simply download an iMessage game through the Messages app and invite a friend to play along.
Learn more about the steps you can take to download and play iMessage games.
What are iMessage games?
iMessage games are apps that you can download and play with your friends through the Messages app. These games are similar to those you would find on your phone, but they're designed specifically for iMessage. There are a variety of genres available, so there's sure to be an iMessage game for everyone.
Popular iMessage games include:
- Words with Friends
- 8 Ball Pool
- Heads Up!
- Draw Something
- QuizUp
- Trivia Crack
- Game Pigeon
How to download iMessage games
To download and play iMessage games, you'll need an iPhone with iOS 11 or later—but it's always best to have the latest version of iOS. There are three ways to download iMessage games.
Through the App Store
The first is through the App Store. Simply open the App Store and search for "iMessage games." This search will bring up a list of all available titles. Find one that looks interesting and tap Get to download it.
Directly in the Messages app
To download and play iMessage games directly in the Messages app, follow these steps:
- Open the Messages app on your iPhone or iPad.
- Open a conversation with the person you want to play the game with or start a new conversation.
- Tap on the + icon next to the text input field and find the App Store (you might have to tap More). It looks like the letter 'A' made of pencils.
- Here, you can browse and search for various games to download and install.
- Once you find a game, tap on its icon to open and play it. The game will load within the iMessage conversation.
- Follow the on-screen instructions or prompts to play the game. These instructions will vary depending on the specific game you're playing.
Accept an invite from a friend
The third way to download iMessage games is through a friend. If a friend sends you an invitation to play an iMessage game, there will be a link to download it. Simply tap on the link, and the game will begin downloading.me, there will be a link to download it. Simply tap on the link and the game will begin downloading. Using Android? Here's how to get iMessage on an Android phone.
Get a new iPhone for your iMessage games
Does the idea of playing games with your friends on iMessage sound enticing? Well, you're going to need an iPhone, but you don't have to pay full price for it. Check out our list of the best iPhone deals and save on a new Apple smartphone.
How to Play iMessage Games
Once you download a game, you can play with a friend by going into the Messages app and opening the conversation with your friend/opponent. You should see an icon for the game you downloaded among the options above the keyboard. Tap that icon and follow any prompts to invite your friend to play. Your friend will have to accept the invite to start the game. If your friend doesn’t have the game, they can follow the prompts to get it.
Most iMessage games are turn-based, meaning you take turns with your opponent. However, there are some real-time games as well. In either case, simply follow the instructions within the game and have fun!
Best cell phone plans for iMessage games
iMessage games will use cellular data if you’re away from a Wi-Fi connection. While these games do not tend to use very much data, you will still want to ensure you have enough to support your iMessage gaming and other internet needs, like streaming HD video. Here are some of the most popular phone plans:
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#1
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 100%
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Plans from $45+ $10 Upfront
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#2
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 96%
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Plans from $25/mo
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#3
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 65%
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Plans from $25/mo
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#4
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 52%
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Plans from $0/mo
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#5
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 49%
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Plans from $25/mo
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#6
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 48%
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Plans from $50/mo
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#7
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 31%
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Plans from $25+ $0.99 Upfront
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#8
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 21%
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Plans from $15/mo+ $9.99 Upfront
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#9
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 18%
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Plans from $30/mo+ $20 Upfront
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#10
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 17%
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Plans from $20/mo
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Angelo Ilumba
Senior Writer
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