Kairosoft announced that it made the Android and iOS versions of the simulation Game Dev Story free on mobile storefronts. The announcement, which came up on social media, noted it is a one-day affair to celebrate the developer’s 30th anniversary. In order to claim it and retain access to the title after, someone must get it from Google Play or Apple’s App Store. Only those two options apply, as the Amazon storefront for its Android devices still shows it as $4.99.
Game Dev Story is one of Kairosoft’s oldest and most famous simulation games, which started out as a Japanese PC exclusive until mobile ports for Android and iOS devices appeared worldwide in 2010. Players create a developer. They then hire staff to develop original games, take on contract work, and even eventually create their own consoles. Titles will be reviewed by a Famitsu-style magazine, you’ll unlock different genres and concepts that can have different synergies, and it is even possible to attend a TGS-style GameDex event each year.
Since its original launch, Game Dev Story appeared on multiple platforms. You can find it on the Switch, PS4, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X, though none of those are part of this free promotion. A PC version is also available on Steam now. It also ended up becoming part of Apple Arcade.
Game Dev Story is temporarily free on Android and iOS devices via the Google Play and App Store mobile storefronts on February 11, 2026.