7 Best Mobile MOBAs Games

MOBAs are unique among game genres, heavily emphasizing teamwork over individual prowess. The quintessential 5v5 setup of these games necessitates a high level of cooperation, making them especially enjoyable when playing with friends who share your strategic mindset.

While the PC and console landscapes boast well-known MOBAs like Dota 2, League of Legends, and newer entrants like Deadlock, the mobile scene has seen fewer standout titles. However, the mobile platform does feature several exceptional MOBAs that shine as hidden gems within the genre. In this article, we explore the top mobile MOBAs that bring the thrill of strategic team play right to your smartphone. Let’s dive into the best MOBA experiences available for mobile gamers.

#7: Pokemon Unite

Rated E for Everyone, Pokémon Unite offers a unique entry point into the world of MOBA games, particularly for those who may find traditional MOBAs daunting. Available for crossplay between mobile devices and the Nintendo Switch, this game simplifies the typical MOBA format to create a more accessible and enjoyable experience.

In Pokémon Unite, traditional MOBA elements like towers and a main base are replaced with goal zones where players score points. This shift not only removes some of the complexity associated with standard MOBA games but also keeps matches exciting—you always have a chance to come back and win, no matter the odds. Additionally, the game serves as a gentle introduction to isometric controls, a staple of the genre, making it perfect for newcomers.

Overall, Pokémon Unite is designed to be fun and engaging, providing an excellent starting point for those new to MOBAs while still offering enough depth to keep seasoned players interested.

#6: Arena of Valor (AOV)

Arena of Valor (AOV), developed by Tencent, stands as one of the foundational titles in the mobile MOBA landscape, having launched around the same time as Mobile Legends. Although it hasn’t achieved the same level of widespread acclaim, AOV has consistently offered a solid alternative, maintaining a dedicated player base over the years.

Originally introduced as the international counterpart to the immensely popular Honor of Kings, Arena of Valor has since evolved into its own distinct entity. While the games share occasional hero releases through collaborations, they now feature largely separate rosters and are developed by different teams. This distinction has allowed Arena of Valor to carve out its own niche within the global MOBA market, appealing to players looking for depth and variety in gameplay.

#5: Vainglory

Vainglory stands out in the mobile MOBA genre by offering a unique control scheme that incorporates touch-and-move functionality, which differs from the more common analog stick controls found in other games. This feature particularly appeals to those who have experience with MOBAs on PC, providing a more intuitive and familiar way to interact with the game.

It’s important to be aware, however, that Vainglory’s development has largely ceased. The original company behind it has scaled back its involvement to just one developer, focusing primarily on maintaining the game rather than expanding it. Although it’s no longer available through conventional app stores, once you find a way to download and install Vainglory, you can still access its full range of features, including party play and various cosmetic skins. This allows players to continue enjoying the game’s rich competitive environment and distinctive touch-based gameplay.

#4: Onmyoji Arena

Onmyoji Arena, despite its waning popularity and the difficulty of finding matches on certain servers, remains one of the most entertaining MOBA games available on mobile today. Its standout feature is undoubtedly the character design, which is second to none in the genre. The depth of themes and the complexity of skills in Onmyoji Arena set it apart, offering a richness that is often lacking in other mobile MOBAs.

The game also excels in providing varied and enjoyable game modes that are perfect for teaming up with friends. These include unique variants that allow players to engage in battles without the typical strategic constraints of turrets and split-pushing, focusing purely on the fun and competitive aspects of MOBA gameplay. Despite its challenges in player base and server activity, Onmyoji Arena continues to offer a distinctive and rich experience for those who can access its full suite of features.

#3: Honor Of Kings

Developed by the same team behind Arena of Valor, Honor of Kings has emerged as a global favorite in the MOBA genre, surpassing its sister game in popularity following its worldwide release. Known for its exceptional character kits and designs, Honor of Kings not only meets the standard expectations of a MOBA but exceeds them, offering some of the most innovative and engaging gameplay elements in the market.

This game is particularly friendly to free-to-play (F2P) users, an appealing aspect given its recent global launch. Players can acquire a variety of skins and heroes without extensive grinding, a common requirement in many other games. While some may find the user interface a bit dated, the dynamic gameplay experience and the generous reward system more than compensate, making Honor of Kings a compelling choice for both new and veteran MOBA players.

#2: Mobile Legends

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang continues to reign supreme in the mobile MOBA landscape, consistently outperforming rivals like Vainglory, Wild Rift, and Honor of Kings since its debut. This game’s enduring popularity is testament to its ability to evolve and adapt year after year, constantly refreshing its appeal to both new and veteran players.

Boasting a diverse and ever-expanding roster of approximately 130 heroes—with new additions every few months—Mobile Legends keeps the gameplay dynamic and balanced. Regular updates include not only new heroes but also balance patches and comprehensive hero revamps, ensuring no single character remains overpoweringly strong for long. Unique heroes like Fanny offer gameplay mechanics that are distinct within the MOBA genre, adding depth and variety to player strategies.

For those looking to dedicate time to a mobile game with the assurance of longevity and ongoing relevance, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is a standout choice. Its proven track record of adaptability and popularity makes it a safe bet for continued entertainment and competitive play well into the future.

#1: League Of Legends: Wild Rift

While Mobile Legends reigns supreme on mobile platforms, League of Legends sets the standard across all other gaming platforms. Wild Rift, the mobile adaptation of this iconic PC game, brings favorite champions to the small screen with visually upgraded models and skill effects. Tailored for mobile play, Wild Rift offers shorter matches than its PC counterpart, thanks to a smaller map that suits quick, on-the-go gaming sessions without requiring extensive time commitments.

As a direct port from the world’s most popular MOBA, Wild Rift benefits from a high level of balance, refined through years of testing and player feedback on the PC version. Riot Games’ substantial resources support ongoing improvements and updates, ensuring the game remains competitive and engaging. Despite a somewhat tepid reception in certain regions where it is yet to be released, the strong backing of Riot and a diverse and beloved champion roster continue to hold promise for Wild Rift’s future success. This support underpins optimism for the game’s potential to not only catch up with but possibly surpass other titles in the mobile MOBA genre.

Conclusion

The mobile gaming landscape is rich with a variety of MOBAs, each offering unique features and engaging gameplay tailored to different preferences and styles. From the broad appeal and accessibility of Mobile Legends to the sophisticated and strategically deep League of Legends: Wild Rift, these games showcase the versatility and depth the genre can offer on mobile platforms. Pokémon Unite presents an accessible entry point for newcomers, while titles like Honor of Kings and Arena of Valor stand as testaments to the genre’s adaptability and enduring popularity. Each game brings something special to the table, whether it’s innovative control schemes, distinctive character designs, or compelling competitive formats. As the mobile MOBA scene continues to evolve and expand, these games not only promise countless hours of entertainment but also indicate a bright future for MOBA enthusiasts on mobile devices. Whether you’re a seasoned veteran or a curious newcomer, there’s never been a better time to dive into the dynamic world of mobile MOBAs.