Short version: the Ren'Py launcher builds Android packages for you. Install the Android tools from the launcher, configure your package name once, build a universal APK, and back up your keystore: without it, you can't ship updates that install over the old version.
Why bother
Adult games can't go on Google Play, so players on Android look for APKs elsewhere. If you don't publish one, someone else will repack your game, often outdated or bundled with ads. An official APK keeps players on your build and your update cycle. On DuskPlay, a large share of visitors arrive looking for Android games.
Step by step
- Open the Ren'Py launcher, select your project, and click Android.
- Install the SDK: click "Install SDK". The launcher downloads the Android tools. It will tell you if you need a Java Development Kit and which version.
- Configure: set the app name, a unique package name (for example
com.yourstudio.yourgame), version and orientation. Don't change the package name later. - Keys: the launcher creates a signing key. Back it up somewhere safe. Every future update must be signed with the same key.
- Build: choose a universal APK for distribution outside stores, then "Build Package". Use "Build & Install" to test on a phone connected by USB.
Make it good on phones
- Text size: test on a 6" screen. Increase dialogue size or add a text size option.
- Touch targets: make choice buttons and menu items large enough for thumbs.
- Hover-only UI: anything that only shows on mouse hover won't work on touch. Replace it.
- File size: compress images (WebP) and audio (Opus/OGG). Big APKs scare mobile players.
- Saves: keep the same package name and key, and saves carry over when players install updates.
Distribute it
- Host the APK on your own site, Patreon, SubscribeStar or itch.io, next to the PC builds.
- Publish the file size and version so players can spot fakes.
- Link a short install guide. You can link ours: how to install an adult game APK.
- Sell it through stores that welcome adult games and host APKs, like DuskPlay.
FAQ
Can I put my adult Ren'Py game on Google Play?
No. Google Play doesn't allow sexually explicit content. Distribute the APK yourself or through adult-friendly stores.
Why won't my update install over the old version?
It's signed with a different key or uses a different package name. Always sign updates with the same keystore and keep the package name unchanged.
APK or AAB?
AAB is for Google Play. For distribution outside stores, build a universal APK that installs on any device.
Do players keep their saves when updating the APK?
Yes, if the package name and signing key stay the same and they install the new APK over the old one.