The world of esports has exploded in popularity over the past decade, transforming video gaming from a casual hobby into a professional, highly competitive industry. As we dive into the realm of top esports games, we’ll explore the titles that have captured the hearts of millions and fueled the growth of this exciting field.
From intense battle arenas to strategic shooters, these games represent the pinnacle of competitive gaming. Let’s take a closer look at the top esports games that are shaping the industry today.
Skale Money Key Takeaways
- The top 10 esports games span various genres, including Multiplayer online battle arena (MOBAs), battle royales, and first-person shooters.
- Factors contributing to a game’s esports success include competitive gameplay, regular updates, and strong community support.
- The future of esports looks bright, with increasing prize pools and growing mainstream acceptance.
Table of Contents
League of Legends
Game Mechanics:
- Expert Rating: 9/10
- Software: Riot Games
- Theme: Fantasy MOBA (Multiplayer online battle arena)
- Release Date: October 27, 2009
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: No
- Free to play: Yes
- Desktop: Yes
- iOS: No
- Android: No
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on League of Legends
League of Legends stands as a titan in the world of esports, and for good reason. Its intricate gameplay, diverse champion roster, and constant updates keep the game fresh and exciting.
I love the strategic depth that comes with team composition and macro play. The thrill of outplaying opponents and securing objectives is unmatched. However, it could be better in terms of new player onboarding, as the learning curve can be steep.
The community can also be toxic at times, which might deter some players. Despite these drawbacks, League of Legends remains a cornerstone of competitive gaming.
Visuals & Audio
League of Legends boasts vibrant, colorful graphics that bring its fantasy world to life. The character designs are distinctive and memorable, with each champion having a unique visual identity.
Spell effects are clear and impactful, crucial for gameplay clarity. The soundtrack is epic and atmospheric, enhancing the game’s immersive qualities. Sound design is top-notch, with satisfying audio cues for abilities and game events.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Special game modes like ARAM (All Random All Mid) and rotating featured modes offer variety.
- Special Symbols: Unique champion abilities and item activities serve as special features in gameplay.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Fast-paced, strategic, and highly competitive. Each match feels unique due to champion combinations and player decisions.
- Winning Frequency: Balanced matchmaking aims for a 50% win rate for most players.
My Tips When You Start Playing League of Legends
For newcomers to League of Legends, start by focusing on a few champions to master rather than trying to learn every character. Practice last-hitting minions to improve your gold income.
Always pay attention to the minimap for enemy movements. Communication with your team is key, so use pings and chat effectively. Don’t get discouraged by losses; each game is a learning opportunity.
Lastly, remember to have fun – it’s easy to get caught up in the competitive aspect, but enjoying the game is crucial for long-term engagement.
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
Game Mechanics:
- Expert Rating: 8/10
- Software: Moonton
- Theme: Mobile MOBA (Multiplayer online battle arena)
- Release Date: July 14, 2016
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: No
- Free to play: Yes
- Desktop: No
- iOS: Yes
- Android: Yes
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang has successfully brought the MOBA experience to mobile devices, making it one of the top esports games in the mobile arena. I appreciate its accessibility and how it’s optimized for touchscreen controls.
The shorter match duration compared to PC MOBAs is perfect for on-the-go gaming. However, it could be better in terms of balance updates and original character designs, as some heroes feel derivative of other MOBA games.
Despite these issues, Mobile Legends offers an engaging competitive experience that has captured a massive player base, especially in Southeast Asia.
Visuals & Audio
Mobile Legends features colorful, cartoonish graphics that work well on mobile screens. Character designs are diverse and easily distinguishable during fast-paced gameplay. The user interface is clean and intuitive, essential for a mobile MOBA.
Sound effects are crisp, providing clear audio cues for abilities and game events. The background music is upbeat and energetic, matching the game’s fast-paced nature.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Special events and limited-time game modes add variety to the standard 5v5 matches.
- Special Symbols: Hero-specific abilities and unique passive skills serve as special features in gameplay.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Fast-paced and action-packed, with matches typically lasting 10-15 minutes.
- Winning Frequency: Matchmaking aims for balanced games, but individual skill can greatly influence outcomes.
My Tips When You Start Playing Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
For new Mobile Legends players, start by trying out different roles to find your preferred playstyle. Practice last-hitting minions to boost your gold income. Pay attention to the minimap and use the ping system to communicate with your team.
Learn to use the target lock feature effectively in teamfights. Don’t neglect your lane responsibilities while roaming. Lastly, be patient and focus on improving your skills rather than worrying about your rank initially. Remember, teamwork is crucial in MOBAs, so always strive to cooperate with your teammates.
Counter-Strike 2
Game Mechanics
- Expert Rating: 9/10
- Software: Valve Corporation
- Theme: Tactical FPS (First-person Shooter)
- Release Date: August 21, 2012 (CS:GO)
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: No
- Free to play:Yes
- Desktop: Yes
- iOS: No
- Android: No
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on Counter-Strike
Counter-Strike, particularly CS:GO, has been a cornerstone of esports for over two decades. I love its emphasis on precise gunplay, tactical decision-making, and teamwork. The economy system adds a layer of strategy that sets it apart from other FPS games.
The high skill ceiling ensures that there’s always room for improvement, keeping the game engaging for years. It could be better in terms of introducing new content, as updates can be infrequent compared to some other top esports games.
Despite this, Counter-Strike’s core gameplay remains unmatched in its genre, cementing its place as one of the most respected competitive titles.
Visuals & Audio
Counter-Strike features realistic graphics that prioritize clarity and performance over flashy effects. Maps are well-designed with clear sightlines and strategic points. Character models are distinct and easily identifiable.
The sound design is exceptional, with accurate positional audio crucial for competitive play. Weapon sounds are satisfying and unique, allowing players to identify guns by sound alone. The minimal background music keeps the focus on gameplay.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Various community-made game modes offer alternatives to standard competitive play.
- Special Symbols: Unique weapon skins and character models serve as cosmetic features.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Precise, tactical, and highly skill-based. Every round feels tense and impactful.
- Winning Frequency: Depends heavily on individual and team skill, with matchmaking aiming for balanced games.
My Tips When You Start Playing Counter-Strike
For Counter-Strike newcomers, start by mastering the basic mechanics of movement and shooting. Learn the spray patterns of popular weapons like the AK-47 and M4A4. Communicate effectively with your team using callouts.
Practice your aim in deathmatch or workshop maps. Learn the economy system and when to save or buy. Study professional matches to understand high-level strategies. Most importantly, be patient – Counter-Strike has a steep learning curve, but the satisfaction of improvement is worth the effort.
Valorant
Game Mechanics
- Expert Rating: 8/10
- Software: Riot Games
- Theme: Tactical Hero Shooter
- Release Date: June 2, 2020
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: No
- Free to play: Yes
- Desktop: Yes
- iOS: No
- Android: No
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on Valorant
Valorant has quickly established itself as one of the top esports games since its release. I appreciate how it blends tactical shooter gameplay with hero-based abilities, creating a unique hybrid experience.
The gunplay feels crisp and satisfying, while the diverse agent abilities add depth to strategies. Regular updates and new agent releases keep the game fresh. However, it could be better in terms of map variety, as the pool of available maps feels limited compared to some other competitive shooters.
Despite this, Valorant’s compelling gameplay and growing esports scene make it a strong contender in the competitive FPS market.
Visuals & Audio
Valorant features a clean, stylized aesthetic that prioritizes readability over realism. Character designs are distinct and easily identifiable. Ability effects are visually striking without being overly distracting.
The sound design is excellent, with clear audio cues for footsteps, abilities, and gunfire. Each weapon has a unique sound profile. The music is understated, maintaining focus on the gameplay.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Limited-time game modes occasionally offer alternative ways to play.
- Special Symbols: Agent abilities serve as special features, each with unique tactical uses.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Tactical and ability-focused, with a mix of careful positioning and fast-paced gunfights.
- Winning Frequency: Balanced matchmaking aims for fair games, but individual skill can greatly impact outcomes.
My Tips When You Start Playing Valorant
For new Valorant players, start by familiarizing yourself with the different agents and their abilities. Practice your aim in the shooting range and deathmatch mode. Learn callouts for each map to communicate effectively with your team.
Understand the economy system and when to save or buy. Experiment with different agents to find ones that suit your playstyle. Use your abilities strategically, not just for kills. Remember, teamwork is crucial – coordinate with your team for ability combos and site executes. Lastly, stay positive and focus on improvement rather than just winning.
Fortnite
Game Mechanics:
- Expert Rating: 8/10
- Public Rating: 7/10
- Software: Epic Games
- Theme: Battle Royale
- Release Date: July 25, 2017
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: No
- Free to play: Yes
- Desktop: Yes
- iOS: Yes
- Android: Yes
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on Fortnite
Fortnite has revolutionized the battle royale genre and solidified its place among the top esports games. I love its unique building mechanics, which add a layer of strategy and skill not found in other shooters.
The constant updates, collaborations, and in-game events keep the game fresh and exciting. The cartoonish art style is visually appealing and runs well on various devices. However, it could be better in terms of balancing, as new items and mechanics can sometimes disrupt competitive play.
The skill gap in building can also be intimidating for new players. Despite these challenges, Fortnite’s innovative approach to the battle royale genre continues to captivate a massive audience.
Visuals & Audio
Fortnite boasts a colorful, cartoon-like aesthetic that’s both visually appealing and performance-friendly. Character designs are diverse and often feature popular culture references.
The constantly evolving map keeps the visuals fresh. Sound design is crucial for situational awareness, with clear audio cues for footsteps, gunfire, and building. The soundtrack is energetic and adds to the game’s lively atmosphere.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Limited-time events and game modes offer unique experiences.
- Special Symbols: Special items and weapons serve as gameplay-altering features.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Fast-paced and dynamic, with a mix of shooting and building skills required.
- Winning Frequency: Highly variable due to the battle royale format and large player count per match.
My Tips When You Start Playing Fortnite
For Fortnite beginners, start by practicing your building skills in Creative mode. Learn to build basic structures quickly for protection. Familiarize yourself with the weapon types and their effective ranges.
Always be aware of the storm circle and plan your movements accordingly. Use natural cover and buildings to your advantage. Don’t neglect harvesting materials throughout the match.
Experiment with different landing spots to find ones that suit your playstyle. Watch experienced players to learn advanced building techniques. Remember, surviving is often more important than getting eliminated, especially when you’re starting out.
Arena of Valor
Game Mechanics
- Expert Rating: 7/10
- Software: TiMi Studio Group
- Theme: Mobile MOBA (Multiplayer online battle arena)
- Release Date: October 14, 2016
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: No
- Free to play: Yes
- Desktop: No
- iOS: Yes
- Android: Yes
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on Arena of Valor
Arena of Valor has established itself as one of the top esports games in the mobile MOBA category. I appreciate its accessibility and how it’s optimized for touchscreen controls. The game offers a wide variety of heroes with unique abilities, providing diverse gameplay experiences.
The matches are relatively short, making it perfect for on-the-go gaming. However, it could be better in terms of balance updates, as some heroes can feel overpowered for extended periods.
The monetization model, while free-to-play, can feel aggressive at times. Despite these issues, Arena of Valor delivers an engaging competitive experience that has garnered a significant following, especially in Asia.
Visuals & Audio
Arena of Valor features vibrant, detailed graphics that push the boundaries of mobile gaming. Character designs are diverse and visually appealing. Ability effects are flashy yet clear, crucial for gameplay readability.
The user interface is intuitive, designed for easy navigation on touch screens. Sound effects are crisp, providing important audio cues during matches. The background music is energetic, enhancing the game’s fast-paced nature.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Special events and limited-time game modes add variety to standard matches.
- Special Symbols: Hero-specific abilities and unique passive skills serve as special features in gameplay.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Fast-paced and action-packed, with matches typically lasting 15-20 minutes.
- Winning Frequency: Matchmaking aims for balanced games, but individual skill can greatly influence outcomes.
My Tips When You Start Playing Arena of Valor
For new Arena of Valor players, start by experimenting with different heroes to find roles that suit your playstyle. Focus on learning to last-hit minions efficiently to boost your gold income. Pay attention to the minimap and use the ping system to communicate with your team.
Learn the importance of objectives like towers and the Dark Slayer. Don’t overextend in lanes without vision of enemy heroes. Practice using active items effectively. Lastly, remember that teamwork is crucial in MOBAs, so always strive to cooperate with your teammates and participate in team fights when necessary.
Apex Legends
Game Mechanics:
- Expert Rating: 8/10
- Software: Respawn Entertainment
- Theme: Battle Royale FPS
- Release Date: February 4, 2019
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: No
- Free to play: Yes
- Desktop: Yes
- iOS: Yes
- Android: Yes
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on Apex Legends
Apex Legends has quickly become one of the top esports games in the battle royale genre. I love its fast-paced gameplay, smooth movement mechanics, and innovative ping system. The diverse cast of Legends, each with unique abilities, adds depth to the tactical gameplay.
The gunplay feels satisfying and skill-based. Regular updates with new Legends, weapons, and map changes keep the game fresh. However, it could be better in terms of server stability, as connection issues can sometimes disrupt matches.
The learning curve for new players can also be steep. Despite these challenges, Apex Legends offers an exhilarating battle royale experience that has captured a dedicated player base.
Visuals & Audio
Apex Legends boasts impressive graphics with a distinct sci-fi aesthetic. Character designs are unique and full of personality. The various maps are visually diverse and well-designed for competitive play.
Sound design is crucial, with clear audio cues for footsteps, gunfire, and abilities that skilled players can use to their advantage. The voice acting for Legends adds charm and character to the game. Background music is minimal during matches, keeping players focused on the action.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Limited-time events and game modes offer unique experiences.
- Special Symbols: Legend abilities and ultimate skills serve as special features in gameplay.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Fast-paced and fluid, with a focus on teamwork and strategic use of Legend abilities.
- Winning Frequency: Variable due to the battle royale format, but skilled teams can consistently place high.
My Tips When You Start Playing Apex Legends
For Apex Legends beginners, start by familiarizing yourself with the ping system – it’s crucial for team communication. Experiment with different Legends to find ones that suit your playstyle.
Practice your aim in the Firing Range. Learn to slide and climb effectively to maximize your mobility. Don’t neglect healing items and shield management during fights. Coordinate with your team for ability combos and revives.
Pay attention to the ring’s movement and plan accordingly. Lastly, don’t be afraid to engage in fights – the best way to improve is through experience.
PUBG Mobile
Game Mechanics
- Expert Rating: 8/10
- Software: PUBG Corporation
- Theme: Battle Royale
- Release Date: March 19, 2018
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: No
- Minimum Bet: Free to play
- Desktop: No
- iOS: Yes
- Android:
- Yes Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on PUBG Mobile
PUBG Mobile has successfully adapted the intense battle royale experience for mobile devices, earning its place among the top esports games. I appreciate its faithful recreation of the PC version’s gameplay, optimized for touchscreen controls.
The game offers a more realistic approach compared to other mobile battle royales, with a focus on tactical gameplay and gunfight mechanics. Regular updates with new maps, weapons, and features keep the game engaging.
However, it could be better in terms of graphics optimization, as performance can vary significantly across devices. The presence of bots in lower-ranked matches can also detract from the competitive feel. Despite these issues, PUBG Mobile delivers a compelling battle royale experience that has captured a massive global audience.
Visuals & Audio
PUBG Mobile features realistic graphics that push the boundaries of mobile gaming. The various maps offer diverse environments, from urban areas to dense forests. Character models and weapon designs are detailed and true to their real-world counterparts.
Sound design is crucial for gameplay, with accurate positional audio for footsteps and gunfire. The background music is minimal, maintaining focus on the intense gameplay.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Limited-time events and game modes offer unique experiences.
- Special Symbols: Special items like ghillie suits and airdrops serve as gameplay-altering features.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Tense and tactical, with a focus on survival and well-timed engagements.
- Winning Frequency: Variable due to the battle royale format, but skilled players can consistently place high.
My Tips When You Start Playing PUBG Mobile
For PUBG Mobile newcomers, start by adjusting your controls and sensitivity settings to your preference. Learn to use the lean function effectively for peeking corners. Practice your aim in the training mode.
Pay attention to the blue zone and plan your movements accordingly. Learn when to engage and when to avoid fights. Use vehicles strategically for rotation, but be aware of the noise they make. Always be on the lookout for good cover, especially in the final circles. Lastly, communication is key in squad games, so use voice chat or quick messages to coordinate with your team.
Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Game Mechanics
- Expert Rating: 9/10
- Software: Ubisoft
- Theme: Tactical FPS (First-person Shooter)
- Release Date: December 1, 2015
- Budget-Friendly: Moderate
- Demo Mode: No
- Game purchase required: Yes
- Desktop: Yes
- iOS: No
- Android: No
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
Rainbow Six Siege has carved out a unique niche in the competitive FPS market, solidifying its position among the top esports games. I love its emphasis on teamwork, strategy, and environmental destruction.
The diverse roster of operators, each with unique gadgets and abilities, adds depth to the gameplay. The attention to detail in map design and destructible environments creates dynamic, unpredictable matches.
Regular updates with new operators and map reworks keep the game fresh. However, it could be better in terms of new player onboarding, as the learning curve can be steep. The game also suffers from occasional balancing issues with new operator releases. Despite these challenges, Rainbow Six Siege offers a tactical experience unmatched in the FPS genre.
Visuals & Audio
Rainbow Six Siege features realistic graphics that prioritize clarity and tactical awareness. Character models are detailed and easily identifiable. The destructible environments are a visual highlight, changing dynamically throughout matches.
Sound design is exceptional, with accurate positional audio crucial for competitive play. Weapon sounds are distinct and satisfying. The minimal background music keeps the focus on the intense gameplay.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Limited-time events occasionally offer alternative game modes.
- Special Symbols: Operator-specific gadgets and abilities serve as special features in gameplay.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Tense, tactical, and highly strategic. Each round feels impactful and unique.
- Winning Frequency: Depends heavily on team coordination and strategy, with matchmaking aiming for balanced games.
My Tips When You Start Playing Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Siege
For Rainbow Six Siege beginners, start by learning the basic operators and their gadgets. Spend time in custom games to learn map layouts and common angles. Use drones effectively in the preparation phase.
Communicate clearly with your team using callouts. Practice your aim in Terrorist Hunt mode. Learn to use sound to your advantage, as audio cues are crucial. Don’t be afraid to use your gadgets – they’re often more valuable when used than saved. Lastly, be patient and persistent – Siege has a steep learning curve, but mastering its mechanics is incredibly rewarding.
Minecraft
Game Mechanics
- Expert Rating: 7/10
- Software: Mojang Studios
- Theme: Sandbox, Survival
- Release Date: November 18, 2011
- Budget-Friendly: Yes
- Demo Mode: Yes
- Minimum Bet: One-time purchase
- Desktop: Yes
- iOS: Yes
- Android: Yes
- Windows Phone: No
My Honest Opinion on Minecraft
While not traditionally considered an esports title, Minecraft has carved out its own niche in competitive gaming, particularly in the realm of speedrunning and PvP modes. I love its open-ended nature and the creativity it fosters.
The simplicity of its core mechanics belies the depth of possibilities, from complex redstone contraptions to massive multiplayer builds. The game’s longevity is a testament to its adaptability and the passionate community that has grown around it.
However, it could be better in terms of official support for competitive play. The combat system, while improved, still feels somewhat lacking for serious PvP. Despite these issues, Minecraft’s unique blend of creativity, survival, and competition continues to captivate players worldwide.
Visuals & Audio
Minecraft’s iconic blocky graphics have become instantly recognizable. While not striving for realism, the simple textures and designs allow for clear visibility and performance across a wide range of devices.
The game’s sound design is subtle but effective, with distinct audio cues for different blocks, mobs, and environmental elements. The soundtrack, composed by C418, is hauntingly beautiful and enhances the game’s sense of exploration and discovery.
Bonus Rounds and Special Features
- Bonus Games: Adventure maps and custom game modes created by the community offer unique experiences.
- Special Symbols: Rare items and blocks serve as special features in gameplay.
Player Experience
- Gameplay Feel: Open-ended and creative, with the freedom to set your own goals and playstyle.
- Winning Frequency: Varies greatly depending on the game mode or challenge being undertaken.
My Tips When You Start Playing Minecraft
For Minecraft newcomers, start by learning the basic crafting recipes and survival mechanics. Don’t be afraid to experiment – trying new things is a big part of the Minecraft experience.
In survival mode, secure a shelter before nightfall to protect against mobs. Learn to manage your inventory effectively. Explore different biomes to find unique resources. For those interested in the competitive aspects, practice your PvP skills in dedicated servers or learn speedrunning techniques. Join online communities to share builds and learn from experienced players. Remember, in Minecraft, the only limit is your imagination.
Conclusion
The world of top esports games is diverse and ever-evolving, offering something for every type of gamer. From the strategic depth of MOBAs like League of Legends and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang to the precise gunplay of Counter-Strike and Valorant, these games showcase the pinnacle of competitive gaming.
Battle royales like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and PUBG Mobile have revolutionized the genre, while tactical shooters like Rainbow Six Siege offer a unique blend of strategy and action. Even sandbox games like Minecraft have found their place in the competitive scene.
As esports continues to grow, we can expect these games to evolve, with new titles emerging to challenge the established giants. The future of esports looks bright, with increasing prize pools, growing mainstream acceptance, and continual technological advancements enhancing the viewing and playing experience.
Whether you’re a casual player or aspiring pro, these top esports games offer endless opportunities for skill development, teamwork, and competitive thrills. So pick your game, hone your skills, and who knows – you might be the next esports star in the making!
FAQ
What makes a game suitable for esports?
Key factors include competitive gameplay, a high skill ceiling, regular updates, spectator-friendliness, and a large, engaged player base.
How can I start playing these games professionally?
Start by mastering the game, join online communities, participate in amateur tournaments, stream your gameplay, and consider joining a team.
Which game is best for beginners in esports?
This depends on personal preference, but games like Fortnite and Apex Legends can be more accessible due to their popularity and free-to-play models.
Are these games free to play?
Many top esports games, including League of Legends, Fortnite, and PUBG Mobile, are free to play. Others, like Counter-Strike and Rainbow Six Siege, require a one-time purchase.
How often are these games updated?
Most top esports games receive regular updates, typically every few weeks or months, to maintain balance, add new content, and keep the game fresh for players.
Author: Cosmas Mwirigi
Cosmas Mwirigi is an established freelance writer with over five years of experience and the founder of Skalemoney.com. His content has been published by multiple publishers, including PV-Magazine, Slidebean, Bridge Global, Casinos.com, Gambling.com, and Reverbico.
Mwirigi is an expert writer in iGaming, B2B, SaaS, Finance, digital marketing and Solar renewable energy. To contact him for his services, connect with him on his LinkedIn.
