Even though Flash content is not as popular as it used to be (mostly due to more reliable HTML5 content), most browser games are still based on Flash technology. And, while this is not an issue when you’re playing on a PC, it becomes a nuisance when you’re trying to enjoy your favorite game on an Android device.
This happens because Adobe stopped developing the mobile Flash version back in 2011. So, if you’re trying to open a Flash game in a mobile browser, you’re more likely to be met with a disappointing message.
Still, all is not lost as there are a few ways to view and use Flash content even on today’s modern smartphones.
#1: Make Sure You Have the Right Browser
Android tends to come with Google Chrome as the default browser, which doesn’t support Flash content. However, there are a few browsers that have no quarrel with this type of content and may even be better than Chrome in terms of consumed resources.
The first that comes to mind is Puffin, a browser that does all the work in the cloud and returns the results to your device, thus reducing the workload on your phone. It also has Flash support and, to make things even better, this doesn’t take a toll on your device either! Puffin runs remote Flash technology, which means the heavy lifting is done by distant servers and not by your phone’s processor.
Another browser that works with Flash content without any additional installation is Photon Browser. The app even comes with a button that activates and deactivates Flash support, so it gives the user the possibility to choose if they want to use it or not.
#2: Choose the Right Games
Even with the right browser, not all Flash games will work on a mobile phone. Some just can’t be adapted to a mobile screen while others have controls that don’t quite fit. Even more, it also depends on the type of phone you have and its capability to run demanding games (some are quite the resource-eaters!).
So, make sure to select Flash games that have simple controls, like Agar.io or Slither.io and those that don’t need a lot of graphic or processing power such as Lucky Life or Super Mario 63 (the reimagined world of Super Mario 64).
The thing that’s most impressive is the diversity of genres and gameplay you get to see once you start digging for browser games that could work in the mobile world. There is everything from war campaigns (Warfare 1917) to puzzle games (Bubble Spinner 2).
As you can imagine, the list can go on and on, so if you want more fun, just click here to play interesting Flash games like Tanki Online on your device.
#3: Install Adobe Flash Player
If none of the options discussed above work, there is one more trick you can try. Still, before you do, we have to warn you.
Some versions of Android don’t work well with Flash Player and there may be some lagging or other compatibility issues. If this happens, the best course of actions is to uninstall Flash Player and look for other options.
Now, to install Adobe Flash Player, go to Archived Flash Player versions on the Adobe site and download it. Next, check their instructions on how to install the software on your device.
Once the installation is complete, try to run some Flash content in your browser (a video or a game). You should see a gray box, with a message in the middle that says, “Tap here to activate the plugin”. Tap it and wait for the plugin to be activated.
If everything went smoothly, you should be able to see the content.
Wrap Up
You may find other so-called solutions out there, but we recommend taking everything with a grain of salt. The most common solution to the Flash Player conundrum is a browser that supports it, but if you’ve never heard of it and you can’t find reviews online, it’s best to avoid it.
There’s no need to risk the security of your device!
