How to block ads in games
Published
The simplest ways to block ads in games are to play offline in airplane mode, use an ad blocker for browser games, or buy the remove ads upgrade, though the surest fix is to play games that have no ads at all.
At a glance
- Airplane mode stops many phone games from loading ads
- Browser ad blockers work on many web games, but not all
- A paid remove ads option is the fair way to support a game you like
- Ad free games remove the problem instead of fighting it
Method 1. Airplane Mode
Most game ads load from the internet. If your phone is offline, many games cannot fetch an ad and just skip it.
- Open the game once while online so it can finish any downloads it needs.
- Turn on airplane mode from the control panel or quick settings.
- Make sure Wi-Fi is off too. On some phones airplane mode leaves Wi-Fi on.
- Play. Many games run fine offline.
This does not work for games that need the internet to play, like online multiplayer games. Some games also refuse to start offline. And a few offer rewards only for watching ads, which you will lose.
Method 2. An Ad Blocker for Browser Games
If you play games in a web browser, an ad blocker extension can stop many ads before they load. uBlock Origin is a popular free one for Firefox. Many browsers also have their own built in blockers.
Two things to know. Some game sites detect blockers and ask you to turn them off before you can play. And blockers can sometimes break the game itself, so if a game stops working, try turning the blocker off for that site.
Method 3. A Private DNS Blocker on Your Phone
Some ad blocking services work by filtering the web addresses your phone looks up. On Android you can set one under Private DNS in your network settings. On iPhone you install a profile or an app from the service.
These block ads across many apps, not just games. They are a bit more technical, they do not catch every ad, and they can break apps that rely on the blocked addresses. Choose a service you trust, because it can see which sites your phone looks up.
Method 4. Pay to Remove Ads
Many free games sell a one time upgrade that removes ads. If you play a game every day, this is often worth it. It is also the fair choice, because ads are how the maker gets paid.
Before you buy, read reviews that mention the upgrade. Some games still show offers or optional
reward videos after you pay.
Method 5. Play Games That Have No Ads
Every method above is a workaround. The cleanest answer is a game that never had ads in the first place.
- Ad free browser arcades. VanillaBits has free games with no ads and nothing to buy. They run in your browser on a phone, tablet or computer.
- Paid services. Apple Arcade and Netflix Games include games with no ads.
- Buy once games. Pay a few dollars once and play without ads.
See where to play games without ads for more options.
Quick Comparison
| Method | Cost | Works best for |
|---|---|---|
| Airplane mode | Free | Offline phone games |
| Browser ad blocker | Free | Web games on a computer |
| Private DNS blocker | Free or paid | Ads across many apps |
| Remove ads upgrade | One time fee | A game you play often |
| Ad free games | Free or paid | Never seeing ads at all |
A Note on Kids and Ads
Ads in kids games can link to other apps, stores or videos that are not meant for children. If a young child plays on your device, an ad free game is safer than any blocker. Tap Hatch and Bubble Catch on VanillaBits are simple, free and have no ads. Pair that with the purchase settings in our guide to games without in app purchases.
Questions
Does airplane mode block ads in games?
Often, yes. Many phone games cannot load ads offline and skip them. It does not work for games that need the internet, and some games will not start offline.
Can an ad blocker block game ads?
A browser ad blocker can stop many ads in web games. Some sites detect blockers, and some games break with one turned on. Phone apps need a different kind of blocker.
Is it okay to block ads in games?
It is your device, but ads are how many free games pay their makers. If you enjoy a game, paying to remove ads is the fair way to support it.
How do I get rid of ads in kids games?
The surest way is to choose games with no ads, like the free games on VanillaBits. Airplane mode and purchase controls on your phone also help.
What games have no ads at all?
Free arcades like VanillaBits, nonprofit games like Lichess, buy once games, and games in Apple Arcade and Netflix Games have no ads.