Verithiathe honest score on any app
Updated July 2026 · real, multi-region App Store reviews
The verdict on

Island Building

45
User verdict / 100 High confidence Divided

Island Building is a merge and idle game that many users find addictive and relaxing, but it is heavily criticized for an excessive number of unskippable ads, frequent bugs, and a lack of new content after reaching a certain level, leading to a frustrating experience for many players.

⚠ Not updated in 26 months, this app may be abandoned
4.7★ lifetime (15,667) Free + in-app purchases since 2018 by BYSS mobile recent negative 30% 120 reviews across 4 regions
Ads Content & Progression Bugs & Performance Gameplay Enjoyment Monetization
5★171
4★62
3★54
2★26
1★97
recent reviews across 4 regions, vs the 4.7★ lifetime average

Island Building is a free-to-play mobile game combining merge puzzles with island building and decoration, praised by some for its engaging gameplay and relaxing nature. However, recent reviews highlight significant issues including an overwhelming number of ads, game-ending content limitations, and various technical glitches.

What users like

  • Engaging and addictive merge gameplay, often described as relaxing.R2R5R20R29
  • Offers island building and decoration alongside the merge mechanics.R2R9R47R52
  • Easy to gain gems and coins compared to other games, with achievements providing rewards.R62
  • Can be played offline.R29

What users complain about

  • Excessive and intrusive ads frequently interrupt gameplay, often unskippable or broken.R1R7R21R24
  • Game content ends prematurely, typically around level 60-75, leaving nothing to do.R9R12R14R15
  • Numerous bugs and glitches, including freezing, crashing, battery drain, and non-functioning ad rewards or purchases.R23R24R40R57
  • In-app purchases are often problematic, with users being charged but not receiving items or ad removal benefits.R1R23R100R135
  • Misleading advertisements that do not accurately represent the core gameplay.R1R82R85R141
  • Accusations of stolen sound assets from other games.R10R18R43
  • Game updates have sometimes worsened the experience, introducing more ads, reducing rewards, or causing new bugs.R22R37R127R129
  • Long upgrade times and slow progression, making the game feel tedious.R4R46R51R61
  • Rigged spin wheel mechanics that consistently give low-value rewards.R37R63R68R119
  • Lack of data transfer functionality between devices.R65R66
  • Some users report inappropriate or political ads.R6R59R79

Latest update · v3.8.5

What the developer says changed (the verdict above weighs this against what reviewers report):

- Unlock more levels and discover new items to achieve and collect. - Expand and upgrade your paradise. - Develop and expand your seaside resort to earn more. - Minor performance improvements and bug fixes for smoother gameplay.

Recurring themes

Ads negative
A dominant theme is the overwhelming number of ads, which are often unskippable, broken, or appear too frequently, severely disrupting gameplay and frustrating users. Some users report ads every minute or every few seconds, even after purchasing 'no ad' packs.R1R7R21R24
Content & Progression negative
Many players report reaching an 'end' to the game around level 60-75, where there are no more quests, upgrades, or content to pursue, leading to boredom and uninstallation. This contradicts the developer's update notes about unlocking more levels.R9R12R14R15
Bugs & Performance negative
Users frequently experience glitches, crashes, freezing, and rapid battery drain. Some report issues with ad rewards not being granted or in-app purchases failing. This contradicts the developer's update notes about minor performance improvements and bug fixes.R23R24R40R57
Gameplay Enjoyment mixed
While many find the merge mechanics addictive, relaxing, and a good way to pass time, others find it boring, repetitive, or confusing, especially due to slow progression and excessive ads.R2R4R5R8
Monetization negative
Users criticize the game for pushing in-app purchases, rigged spin wheels, and making gold bars difficult to obtain without spending money. There are also reports of purchases failing or not granting benefits.R1R23R37R46

Who it's for

This game is for players who enjoy idle merge games and island building, especially if they are looking for a casual game to pass time R2R5R29. It might appeal to those who don't mind frequent ads or are willing to risk potential bugs for the core gameplay loop .

Evidence note: The recent reviews skew heavily negative, which contrasts sharply with the high lifetime rating. Many positive reviews are older or very brief, while negative reviews are detailed and consistent across multiple themes. The developer's last update was over two years ago, suggesting the reported issues with content and bugs are unlikely to be addressed soon. The confidence in the negative points is high due to the sheer volume and consistency of recent complaints.

Frequently asked

Does Island Building have a lot of ads?
Yes, many recent reviews indicate that Island Building has an excessive number of ads, often appearing every few minutes, being unskippable, or even freezing the game, significantly disrupting the user experience R1R7R53R138.
Does Island Building have an end to its content?
Yes, numerous players report that the game's content, including quests and upgrades, ends prematurely, typically around level 60 or 75, leaving nothing further to do R9R16R28R47.
Are there bugs or performance issues in Island Building?
Yes, many users report various bugs and performance issues such as frequent crashes, freezing, rapid battery drain, and problems with in-app purchases or ad rewards not being granted R24R40R57R129.
Can you transfer game progress in Island Building to a new device?
Based on user reviews, there does not appear to be a function to transfer game data or progress to a new device, meaning players may have to start over R65R66.

What reviewers actually said

Built only from these 120 real reviews (foreign ones translated). Superscripts jump to the quote here. Apple has no per-review links, so [ref] opens that app's reviews on the App Store.

  1. [R2] 5/5 · US Dream Island: Best puzzle and building game ever!! This game is so exciting as you play number puzzles and all the while you are building your island. No other fun game like Dream Island.. I play this fun little gem all day long..love it!! Five stars..kudos to the developers 😃
  2. [R5] 5/5 · US LITERALLY THE BEST IDLE GAME I HAVE EVER DOWNLOADED: This masterpiece is on par with the likes of dragon city and candy crush. No obligatory ads, fun gameplay that is fast enough to keep you entertained, but not so fast it’s overwhelming. Multiple different progression systems, and this is all from playing for like, 20 minutes. If you’re on the fence, this is your sign to download this absolute le
  3. [R20] 5/5 · US You should get this game: I love the game it is great🤩you might like it mostly if you like mearging game I like you might 🤩👍
  4. [R29] 5/5 · US This is the best app when no wifi: This is such an awesome game I love it so much I wanna play this game all day
  5. [R9] 5/5 · US DREAM ISLAND SUPERB GAME!!! 👍: I updated a while back and the name had changed. It was AMERICAN DREAM for years. I love it. So many things to do. But I’m disappointed. I’ve upgraded all my buildings on my island and have nothing to spend my gold bars on. No more tasks to do. I was stunned when I went to see what my tasks were and it was empty. My heart sank. The developer said it sounds like I
  6. [R47] 5/5 · US Great for passing the time: I really like merge games for some reason, just something peaceful about it. I really like that you get to make upgrades to the island home as well as shops on the beach. My only problem is that I have reached the max number for merging the computers at 75, so now I’ve just got a bunch of level 75 computers taking up room and can’t go any further than that. Maybe add so
  7. [R52] 5/5 · US Absolutely Awesome: This is soo fun!! I love it 🥰 so much. I love the merging! Plus you get to decorate with your own island.
  8. [R62] 5/5 · US AMAZING: This game is the best! It’s such a good way to pass time, and the easy ways to gain gems and coins is a lot better than other games. I’ve only had a few real commercials, and the other ones were easy ways to move ahead in the game. Compared to other merge games, it’s a lot better. The game design is great and the added aspect of the house is fun too. Achievements are easy ways to get gems
  9. [R1] 1/5 · US False advertisement: Not only do I think these reviews are fake but for you guys to sell something you don’t even receive. it said no ads yet not only did I get ads I got 3 of them in one! Yet you want what $4.99 or $5.99 a month??? It didn’t even work…. Then to make things worse you send a vip pack to “go gold”?!?! Wild.. never in my life.
  10. [R7] 1/5 · US Commercials Commercials Commercials: The game benefits the creator of the game all I have seen were commercials every step of the game. Can’t even have fun.
  11. [R21] 1/5 · US Not worth your time: This game is not designed to entertain the players, basically has nothing interesting. The purpose is to only let you click the ads, which only benefits the creator of the game. I don’t understand what kind of people will waste time on it to make money for the game developers because it is totally NOT FUN.
  12. [R24] 3/5 · US Great game: This is a great game and it’s fun but it drains my phone battery fast and is really glitchy. I’ll watch ads to skip deliveries and it will freeze. After I got this game and the ad problem started, it happened to the rest of my phone. Still a good game though.
  13. [R12] 5/5 · US I love this game so much: So I just finished the game because I played it so much idk what to do now since I finished it I love this game
  14. [R14] 5/5 · US Is this the end?: I really enjoy this game it’s my end of the night before I go to sleep relaxer! My computers have reached 88 so is this the end of the game or are additional levels being added in the near future?
  15. [R15] 5/5 · US Does it only get to level 60?: Not sure because it seems like I can’t get past that. I have 2147483647 xp out of 2147483647 and it says level 60 on the left and 61 on the right but it isn’t changing
  16. [R23] 2/5 · US Purchase problems.: Love the game. I bought a starter pack, but it told me the purchase failed. I got a refund from Apple. I tried the VIP, and it confirmed I was approved and scheduled to be charged, but it gave me nothing of the perks, nor removal of ads; like I never had any benefits. Is there a way to solve? I’d really like to buy IAP.
  17. [R40] 3/5 · US OK Game BUT!!!: Its an interesting game when you are bored to death but it forces you to watch ads, and pop up screens for upgrades for a gazillion times it is annoying! It drains battery on your phone too, its summer right now so my phone is getting too hot from using the app.
  18. [R57] 1/5 · US Glitching: My game is currently glitching. When I click on the plan to take me to my island or to the hotel my game will just shut off. It’s really aggravating Bc I enjoy playing this game.
  19. [R100] 2/5 · US Fun until they steal your money 😠: I just tried to make a purchase and as soon as it said success, the game said I canceled the transaction and I didn't. Yes I was charged. Annoying!!! Also their support is non existent Edit: it came through 2 days later. Maybe having a support contact in game or on your website would be nice...
  20. [R135] 1/5 · US Don't spend any money!: The game is pretty refreshing for a merge game. Do not but the limited time offer though. The only reason I got it was too get rid of the ads and it doesn't work. Definitely wait for another developer to improve the idea by not misleading.
  21. [R82] 1/5 · US Misleading: The advertisements I saw for this game were misleading, said that I would make an island of my dream but I’m only able to merge computers.
  22. [R85] 2/5 · US Makes no sense: Alli seem to be doing for 1st 30 minutes is matching numbers, (on pictures of cartoon computers). 2 2’s, 2 3’s, 2 4’s and so on. Up to 14 and still don’t explain what the heck the game is actually about. It keeps saying i get a free booster, which i dont even notice what it does, but first you get stuck watching ad after ad and still not knowing what is happening. Its boring as ca
  23. [R141] 1/5 · US False Advertisement: I downloaded this game so I could create and design MY way. Not press buttons to just upgrade stuff. You falsely advertised and I'm more then upset. You liers.
  24. [R10] 1/5 · US Stole sounds from another game: The game will probably face a copyright issue soon, they stole audio from slime rancher. I already saw them deny it. Don’t support this game. I’m in the official discord server for slime rancher and already notified them.
  25. [R18] 1/5 · US This game steals sounds: This hame is a sound stealer form another game slime rancher.
  26. [R43] 3/5 · US Stolen sound bit: Good game so far from what I’ve played, but I cant help but notice that the computers make the same noise that slimes do in the game slime rancher..... kinda sus if you ask me
  27. [R22] 3/5 · US Was fun till an update: I think you should be able to open more than one box or crate. The game was more fun to play and more enjoyable, now it’s very annoying to only be able to open one at a time.
  28. [R37] 4/5 · US Good game, but...: It’s a good game, i’m hooked, but the daily spinner option literally lands on the second lowest option every. single. time. and i’ve spun it like 20 times so far. also, before, you could get 3 shipments going at the same time, but now only one. you have three spaces for shipments but only one box can be going at a time. other than that, i love the game it’s super relaxing and i
  29. [R127] 1/5 · US Lost a player: Welp I’m done. No longer interested in playing this game after the update. You already had money and gems but now added gold. I hate it when games do that. Plus you reduced the rewards for watching videos while at the same time increased the cost of upgrades. It was a fun simple game and now you just made it tedious. Good bye
  30. [R129] 3/5 · US It shuts me out of the game: Overall it is an amazing game but the new update is horrible. When It MAKES me tap the yellow airplane button It works but then the screen pauses to the airplane and just makes its sound. Then it shows me the island your visiting for 1 second then it just turn black and kicks me out of the game. Please fix these issues. Thank You!
  31. [R4] 1/5 · US DO NOT BUY THIS GAME: Slightly boring , upgrade grill takes two hours!!!!
  32. [R46] 3/5 · US Eh: Game is pretty fun, but it would be better if I wasn’t forced to watch ads every five minutes when I try to buy an upgrade only to get one gem, and if it weren’t so expensive to buy everything. The only way I would be able to get enough money to just buy one thing is if I leave the app until I get a notification then have to buy double the money just to repeat the process until I can buy somet
  33. [R51] 3/5 · US Very Boring and Stupid: I saw the add for this game and it made it sound like it was THE game to get but after the download I was very disappointed. It takes FOREVER to get enough money for stuff, and it once made me so bored I LAJIT fell to sleep. Not a good game to get AT ALL 🙁I was very disappointed.
  34. [R61] 2/5 · US What is the end goal to this game: The game is questionable as to what is the goal of the game besides merging boxes. Building takes so much time and points to get an item but to get the gold coins I have to go through a ton of boxes and ads, after awhile it’s boring and the ads too watch becomes to much
  35. [R63] 2/5 · US Good game but begging for money: Overall a good game but prize wheel is favored for Profit Boosters and Gift Bonanzas, make you watch ads, and it’s very hard to get gold bars without buying them
  36. [R68] 1/5 · US Rigged: The wheel is rigged constantly getting the same prize over and over again and it's always a booster . It takes forever to receive your items along with the fact it already take a long time to receive the coins to buy the items .
  37. [R119] 3/5 · US The spin the wheel: The spin the wheel is not good at all you will get the same thing every and it won’t even be good don’t waste your gems
  38. [R65] 1/5 · US Just one thing: Please add a function where u can transfer your data game to a new device
  39. [R66] 4/5 · US Love the game but...: I never thought I could love to play a game so much. I cannot count the hours I spent on this game or the people I recommended it too; however, I am about to get rid of the device it is currently on and I do not want to start completely over. I wish I could transfer my current progress to a new device because I will not download it a again and start at level one.
  40. [R6] 1/5 · US Forget it: Any reference to Trump, parody or otherwise, is why I will NEVER play your game again. Are you people crazy?!
  41. [R59] 1/5 · US Too many political ads: I had to delete the game. There were far too many political ads. Why in the world are there political ads in a game of merging computers???
  42. [R79] 2/5 · US Horrible ads: I enjoyed this game okay, gradually figuring things out as I went. But I couldn’t stomach the violence and sex in so many of the ads, so I deleted the game from my device before the end of the evening.
  43. [R8] 1/5 · US Long tutorial: Tutorial too long.
  44. [R53] 1/5 · US Full of ads: Every 10 seconds you have to watch an ad to advance in the game. I don’t see how this is called a game you spend most of your time watching ads on this app
  45. [R138] 1/5 · US The ads!!!!!!!!!! Am I playing a game or watching ADS: The ads!!!!!!!!!! Am I playing a game or watching ADS You can not even bypass the reward to skip the ad this is poor execution I don’t mine ads but one every 8 seconds that I can not bypass
  46. [R16] 5/5 · US Great game: I really enjoy this game - but when will there be new content !? I’m all upgraded, kinda sad I don’t have anything else to buy =[ When are you adding more content it’s been a year !
  47. [R28] 1/5 · US Game ends at level 60: Nothing to do and there are never any updates. This is a dead game.

Synthesized from 120 recent App Store reviews · updated July 2026 · View on the App Store