League of Legends has become one of the most popular multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games in the world. Its competitive gameplay, strategic depth, and vibrant community have kept players hooked for years.
In this article, we will explore 20 alternative MOBA games that can satisfy your appetite for intense battles and strategic gameplay.
Whether you’re a seasoned MOBA player or just starting out, these games offer something unique and exciting.
Dota 2
One of the biggest competitors to League of Legends is Dota 2. Developed by Valve Corporation, Dota 2 is known for its complex gameplay mechanics and deep strategic elements.
The game features a huge roster of heroes, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Dota 2 also boasts an impressive esports scene, with regular tournaments and a dedicated community.
When it comes to the heroes in Dota 2, players have a vast array of options to choose from. Each hero has their own distinct set of abilities, allowing for a wide range of playstyles and strategies.
From powerful spellcasters to agile assassins, there is a hero to suit every player’s preferred playstyle. Additionally, Dota 2 regularly introduces new heroes to keep the game fresh and exciting.
Unlike other games in the genre, Dota 2 places a heavy emphasis on team fights and strategic decision-making. Players must work together to secure objectives, control the map, and ultimately defeat the enemy team.
Furthermore, Dota 2’s esports scene is thriving, with numerous tournaments taking place throughout the year.
The largest of these tournaments is The International, which boasts a multi-million dollar prize pool. This prestigious event brings together the best teams from around the world, showcasing their skills and strategies on a global stage.
The competitive nature of Dota 2’s esports scene has fostered a passionate and dedicated community, with fans eagerly following their favorite teams and players.
Smite
Smite takes a different approach to the traditional MOBA formula by offering a third-person perspective. Developed by Hi-Rez Studios, this game features a diverse array of gods and mythological figures from different pantheons.
The gameplay is focused on skillshots and precise positioning, allowing players to feel more connected to their characters.
What sets Smite apart from other MOBAs is its emphasis on action and fast-paced combat. By putting players directly into the action, it creates a unique and immersive experience that sets it apart from the competition.
The gameplay itself is a thrilling blend of strategy and skill. With a wide variety of gods to choose from, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles, there is something for everyone.
But mastering your chosen god is no easy feat. Smite rewards players who can land skillshots and make split-second decisions. Every ability requires careful timing and precise positioning, adding an extra layer of depth to the gameplay.
So, if you’re looking for a MOBA experience that breaks the mold, look no further than Smite.
Heroes of the Storm
Blizzard Entertainment’s Heroes of the Storm takes the classic MOBA formula and adds a twist. Instead of focusing on individual heroes, the game emphasizes team-based gameplay.
Players form teams and work together to achieve objectives, such as capturing control points or destroying enemy bases.
But what sets Heroes of the Storm apart from other MOBAs is its diverse roster of heroes, drawn from Blizzard’s popular franchises. From the mystical world of Warcraft to the dark realms of Diablo and the futuristic battlegrounds of StarCraft, players can choose from a wide array of iconic characters.
Each hero in Heroes of the Storm comes with their own unique set of abilities, talents, and playstyles. This allows for endless combinations and strategies, as players can mix and match heroes to create powerful synergies.
Heroes of the Storm’s team-oriented gameplay and objective-driven matches make it a refreshing and engaging alternative to other popular MOBAs like League of Legends. Instead of solely focusing on killing enemy heroes, the game encourages players to work together to secure objectives that will ultimately lead to victory.
Heroes of the Storm is not just another MOBA. It is a game that brings together the beloved characters and worlds of Blizzard’s franchises, offering a unique and engaging team-based experience.
Vainglory
In the world of mobile MOBAs, Vainglory stands out as one of the best. Developed by Super Evil Megacorp, Vainglory offers a console-like experience on mobile devices. The game boasts stunning graphics, responsive controls, and a dedicated fanbase.
Vainglory features a diverse roster of heroes, each with their own abilities and strengths. The game’s 3v3 matches are fast-paced and action-packed, demanding quick thinking and precise execution. If you’re looking for a mobile MOBA that can rival the experience of playing on a PC, Vainglory is worth checking out.
Arena of Valor
Arena of Valor (also known as Honor of Kings) is one of the most popular MOBAs in the world, especially in China. Developed by Tencent Games, this game offers a polished and streamlined MOBA experience on mobile devices. It features a wide range of heroes, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles.
Arena of Valor focuses on fast-paced gameplay and intense team fights. Matches can be completed in as little as 10 minutes, making it perfect for quick gaming sessions. The game’s intuitive controls and impressive graphics make it a top choice for mobile MOBA enthusiasts.
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is another highly popular mobile MOBA that has captured the hearts of players worldwide. Developed by Moonton, this game offers a familiar and accessible MOBA experience on the go. With its simple controls and easy-to-learn mechanics, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is a great choice for newcomers to the genre.
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang features a large roster of heroes, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. The game’s fast-paced matches and strategic gameplay keep players engaged and coming back for more. If you’re looking for a mobile MOBA that you can play anytime, anywhere, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is worth a try.
Strife
Strife, developed by S2 Games, is a MOBA that focuses on creating a more positive and inclusive gaming experience. The game features a robust matchmaking system that ensures fair and balanced matches. Strife also offers a unique crafting system that allows players to customize and upgrade their heroes.
In addition to its emphasis on fair play, Strife boasts a colorful and vibrant art style that sets it apart from other MOBAs. The game’s streamlined gameplay and intuitive mechanics make it a great choice for players who want a more casual MOBA experience.
Battlerite
If you’re looking for a MOBA that ditches the traditional top-down perspective, Battlerite might be the game for you. Developed by Stunlock Studios, Battlerite is a fast-paced and skill-based arena brawler. Matches are played in a compact arena, with players controlling powerful champions.
Battlerite focuses on intense 2v2 or 3v3 battles, where teamwork and coordination are crucial. The game’s tight controls and fluid combat mechanics make it a joy to play, rewarding players for their skill and strategic thinking. If you’re looking for a MOBA that puts the spotlight on individual skill and reflexes, Battlerite is a fantastic choice.
Paladins
While not a traditional MOBA, Paladins offers a unique blend of first-person shooter (FPS) and MOBA gameplay elements. Developed by Hi-Rez Studios, the creators of Smite, Paladins features a diverse roster of champions, each with their own abilities and playstyles.
In Paladins, players work together in teams to capture objectives and defeat their opponents. The game’s strategic elements and team-based gameplay make it reminiscent of traditional MOBAs, even though the perspective is different. If you’re a fan of FPS games but want to try something with a twist, Paladins is a great choice.
Onmyoji Arena
Onmyoji Arena combines the world of MOBAs with Japanese folklore and mythology. Developed by NetEase Games, this game offers a fresh take on the genre with its distinct art style and unique gameplay mechanics.
In Onmyoji Arena, players assume the role of powerful characters inspired by mythical creatures and spirits. The game’s strategic gameplay and intense battles make it a worthy alternative to League of Legends. If you’re looking for a MOBA that offers a taste of Japanese mythology, Onmyoji Arena is worth exploring.
Heroes of Newerth
Heroes of Newerth is a groundbreaking multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game that has captivated gamers worldwide. With its intense and strategic gameplay, it has become a staple in the competitive gaming scene.
One of the key features that sets Heroes of Newerth apart from other MOBA games is its vast array of heroes. Each hero comes with unique abilities and playstyles, allowing players to truly immerse themselves in the game.
Whether you prefer the brute force of a tank, the devastating spells of a mage, or the swift strikes of an assassin, Heroes of Newerth has a hero that suits your playstyle perfectly.
The game boasts a variety of meticulously designed maps, each with its own strategic elements and objectives. From the lush forests of Caldavar to the treacherous lanes of Mid Wars, every map offers a different experience, keeping the gameplay fresh and exciting.
In order to achieve victory, players must work together, communicating and strategizing to outmaneuver their opponents. Whether it’s capturing key points on the map, defending important structures, or coordinating devastating team fights, teamwork is the key to success in Heroes of Newerth.
With its rich gameplay mechanics, diverse hero roster, and commitment to player satisfaction, Heroes of Newerth is a game that continues to captivate and entertain players around the world.
Awesomenauts
If you’re looking for a MOBA game with a quirky and unique twist, Awesomenauts is the perfect choice. This 2D side-scrolling MOBA features a vibrant cast of characters, each with their own distinct playstyle and abilities.
Awesomenauts offers fast-paced battles in bite-sized matches, making it ideal for players looking for shorter gaming sessions. The game’s charming art style and catchy soundtrack further add to its appeal.
The game encourages players to work together to achieve victory. Whether it’s coordinating a surprise attack, defending a turret, or strategizing on the fly, the teamwork aspect of Awesomenauts adds an extra layer of depth to the gameplay.
As you progress through the game, you’ll unlock new characters, each with their own unique abilities and playstyles. Experimenting with different combinations of characters and finding the perfect team composition becomes a thrilling and rewarding experience.
Awesomenauts also boasts a variety of maps, each with its own distinct layout and objectives. From futuristic space stations to lush alien jungles, the game takes you on a visual journey through different environments. These maps not only provide a visually appealing backdrop but also offer strategic advantages and challenges that players must adapt to.
Awesomenauts is not your typical MOBA game. Its 2D side-scrolling mechanics, diverse cast of characters, and emphasis on teamwork set it apart from the crowd.
Eternal Return: Black Survival
Eternal Return: Black Survival takes the MOBA formula and adds a touch of survival gameplay. Set in a post-apocalyptic world, players must scavenge for resources, craft items, and battle against other players and AI-controlled creatures.
In Eternal Return: Black Survival, players are thrust into a desolate world where the remnants of humanity struggle to survive. The once-thriving cities now lie in ruins, overtaken by nature and plagued by dangerous creatures. As a survivor, you must navigate this treacherous landscape, gathering resources to sustain yourself and battling against other players who are vying for the same limited supplies.
One of the standout features of Eternal Return: Black Survival is its unique blend of MOBA and battle royale mechanics. While the core gameplay revolves around PvP combat, the inclusion of survival elements adds an extra layer of depth and strategy.
Another aspect that sets Eternal Return: Black Survival apart is its diverse roster of characters. Each character has their own unique abilities and playstyle, allowing players to find a character that suits their preferred playstyle. Whether you prefer a stealthy approach, relying on cunning and deception, or a more aggressive playstyle, relying on brute force and raw power, there is a character for everyone.
Overall, Eternal Return: Black Survival offers a unique and engaging gameplay experience that combines the best elements of MOBA and battle royale genres.
Hyper Universe
Hyper Universe is an innovative game that combines the traditional MOBA gameplay with a unique side-scrolling perspective.
It takes the excitement of the multiplayer online battle arena genre and adds a refreshing twist, making it a must-play for gamers looking for something new and exciting.
Players are given the opportunity to choose from a diverse roster of characters, each with their own set of skills and abilities. From powerful warriors to cunning assassins, there is a character to suit every playstyle.
Unlike traditional MOBAs that confine players to a flat plane, Hyper Universe introduces a whole new dimension to the gameplay. Characters are not limited to moving horizontally; they can jump and maneuver across different platforms, adding an extra layer of strategy and depth to the gameplay.
Whether you’re a seasoned MOBA player or new to the genre, Hyper Universe offers a fresh and exciting take on the traditional formula. With its unique side-scrolling perspective, emphasis on verticality, stunning visuals, and immersive lore, Hyper Universe is a game that will keep you hooked for hours on end.
Master X Master (MXM)
Master X Master (MXM) is a MOBA game that introduces a unique and exciting twist. In addition to traditional MOBA battles, MXM features PvE missions, where players team up to take on challenging AI-controlled enemies.
With a diverse selection of Masters to choose from, each with their own distinct set of skills and abilities, MXM offers endless strategic possibilities. The game’s dynamic tag system allows players to switch between two Masters during battles, further adding to the complexity and excitement.
Prime World
Prime World is a MOBA game that combines elements of base-building and hero customization. Players must build and upgrade their own castle, recruit heroes, and engage in intense battles against opposing teams.
What sets Prime World apart is its innovative talent system, where players can customize their heroes’ abilities to suit their playstyle. The game’s strategic depth and varied gameplay modes ensure endless hours of fun and excitement.
AirMech
AirMech brings a unique twist to the MOBA genre by introducing mechs into the gameplay. Players control powerful robots, called AirMechs, and engage in fast-paced battles across a variety of maps.
What makes AirMech stand out is its blend of real-time strategy elements with MOBA gameplay. Players can capture and control outposts, deploy units, and unleash devastating abilities to turn the tide of battle in their favor.
Adventure Time: Battle Party
If you’re a fan of the popular animated series Adventure Time, then Adventure Time: Battle Party is a must-play. This browser-based MOBA game allows players to control their favorite Adventure Time characters and battle against other players in fast-paced matches.
Adventure Time: Battle Party’s charming art style and easy-to-learn gameplay make it a great choice for both fans of the series and MOBA newcomers. Join Finn, Jake, and the rest of the Adventure Time gang in epic battles across the Land of Ooo.
Supernova
Supernova takes the traditional MOBA formula and adds a sci-fi twist. Set in a futuristic universe, players control powerful commanders and battle it out in intense 5v5 matches.
The game’s emphasis on strategic gameplay and team coordination sets it apart from other MOBA games. Each commander has a unique set of abilities and can level up throughout the match, allowing for endless strategic possibilities.
Gigantic
Gigantic is a free-to-play MOBA game that offers a visually stunning and action-packed experience. Players control massive guardians and battle alongside a team of heroes to capture control points and defeat the enemy team’s guardian.
What sets Gigantic apart is its focus on fast-paced combat and dynamic gameplay. Players must strategically work together to overpower their opponents and secure victory. With its gorgeous art style and engaging gameplay, Gigantic is not to be missed.
Conclusion
With these 20 MOBA games similar to League of Legends, players have a wide range of alternatives to explore.
Whether you’re looking for a fresh take on the genre or simply want to try something new, these games offer endless hours of strategic and action-packed gameplay.
So, gather your friends, dive into the world of MOBA gaming, and embark on epic battles that will test your skills and teamwork!
