15 Most Popular Esports Games – Top Titles in 2025
Recent update
This list is regularly updated to match what’s trending and in-demand among gamers.
The most popular esports are competitive games with millions of players and fans worldwide. Big tournaments, huge prize pools, and professional careers show that skill and strategy matter more than ever.
This guide highlights the top titles, what makes them stand out, and why players keep returning for every match.
I researched tournaments and community feedback to find the games defining competitive gaming today. From fast-paced shooters to strategic MOBAs and precise fighting games, these esports are shaping the scene and driving its growth.
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Our Top Picks for Esports
Out of all the games in the esports scene, a few stand out above the rest. And looking at the numbers, the hype, and how each game holds up competitively, these are standouts:
- League of Legends (2009) – First spot belongs to League of Legends. Its most recent World Championship reached a peak of 6.94 million viewers, the biggest number ever seen in esports.
- Counter-Strike 2 (2023) – Counter-Strike 2 follows close behind. The game has already distributed over $4.83 million in prize money during 2025‘s early months, proving its continued financial viability and competitive appeal.
- Valorant (2020) – Valorant claims third with a strong grip on the tactical shooter scene. Every agent in Valorant introduces a spin on traditional FPS gameplay. This is keeping longtime fans interested and also drawing in new players who want something fresh.
As strong as these five esports games are, they’re just the tip of the iceberg. The esports world is filled with games that have built massive followings, supported talented pros, and shaped entire genres. Now, let’s check out the rest of the top contenders.
15 Most Popular Esports Games That are Changing Competitive Gaming
These most popular esports games push the limits of competitive gaming with deep strategy, fast-paced action, and massive audiences. They give professional players a stage to prove their skills and create career opportunities, all while giving immersive experiences to millions of fans worldwide.
Let’s continue to the list of the most popular esports games available today.
1. League of Legends [Best Multiplayer Strategy Game]
| Our score | 10
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| Platforms | Microsoft Windows, macOS |
| Year of Release | 2009 |
| Developer | Riot Games |
| Average Playtime | ~30–45 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Strategic team-based MOBA gameplay |
| Daily active player base (2025) | Around 30 million |
No other title in esports comes close to League of Legends. It has perfected the multiplayer online battle arena formula, creating the template for modern success in the best strategy games category. In the first quarter of 2025, it saw more than 230 million people tune in, topping global charts.
Its major tournaments, such as the League of Legends World Championship, commonly known as Worlds, are global spectacles. These events consist of best-of-battle teams from various regional leagues, including heavy hitters from South Korea, China, Europe, and North America.
With its deep strategic gameplay and high-stakes competition, League of Legends has set the standard for modern esports. Its intense matches and global reach make it a leader in multiplayer gaming.
The competitive structure of the game revolves around two esports teams of five champions. The goal is simple: destroy the enemy base. But behind that are layers of strategy, map control, and quick decisions that elevate it among the best multiplayer games. Each game is never the same, and that is what draws players and viewers in.
This season, Riot Games (the game publisher) has taken the game to a whole new level. The prize pool for MSI was increased from $250,000 to $2 million, and Worlds 2025 now features the biggest prize pool at a staggering $5 million.
Backed by rising prize pools and powerhouse teams like T1 and Team Liquid, League of Legends is growing stronger every season and remains an esteemed part of the esports World Cup, which is exactly why it ranks at the top of our most popular esports list.
My Verdict: League of Legends is an iconic esports title that continues to dominate the scene. If you’re into fast-paced, strategic battles, this one remains a must-play.
What do pro players say?
2. Counter‑Strike 2 [Best Tactical Shooter]
| Our score | 9.8
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| Platforms | PC |
| Year of Release | 2023 |
| Developer | Valve Corporation |
| Average Playtime | ~30–45 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Precision aiming and tactical teamwork |
| Daily active player base (2025) | Around 1 million |
Ask any FPS fan about serious shooters, and chances are they’ll mention Counter-Strike. Sitting at the top of the best FPS games, this title has a rich esports history. Its latest entry, Counter-Strike 2, has hit the stratosphere when it comes to competitive video gaming.
In the first months of 2025, it distributed $4.83 million in prize money. It also recorded more than 99 million hours viewed on Twitch in the 1st quarter and held the top position for that period.
Counter-Strike 2 blends simple gameplay mechanics with unmatched tactical depth. Its consistent updates and active esports scene make it the go-to for FPS fans.
The goal of the game is simple. Two teams of five aim to either plant or defuse the bomb or eliminate the opponent’s strength. This simplicity enables incredible complexity of the execution. Each new round feels almost like a fresh IQ puzzle, even for pros who’ve run the maps 10,000 times.
Behind the scenes, the tournament organizers are making smart moves. PGL (one of the major companies organizing top-tier tournaments for the game) now guarantees a payout within two weeks after events. They have also launched a dedicated third-place match format for more competitive depth. With regular updates, packed tournament calendars, and world-class esports teams, Counter-Strike 2 is keeping both pros and fans fully engaged.
My Verdict: Counter-Strike 2 is a game that rewards precision, strategy, and teamwork, which makes it the top choice for FPS enthusiasts and competitive players alike.
What do pro players say?
3. Valorant [Best Team-Based FPS]
| Our score | 9.7
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| Platforms | Windows, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S |
| Year of Release | 2020 |
| Developer | Riot Games |
| Average Playtime | ~30–40 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Tactical FPS with unique agent abilities |
| Daily active player base (2025) | Around 4.9 million |
Valorant is a first-person shooter that has gained popularity in the competitive gaming world in a very short period. In March’s Masters Bangkok event, it hit a record 4.3 million peak viewers. Following this success, its place among the most popular esports games in 2025 has become more solidified.
The game has its own global tournament system called the Valorant Champions Tour, or VCT. esports teams from different parts of the world compete in it. The best ones face off in big events with huge prize money. This year, top esports teams like T1 and EDward Gaming earned a combined total of more than $8 million by winning tournaments.
Valorant’s mix of unique agents and tactical gunplay creates a dynamic esports experience. The game’s strategy-first approach adds a layer of depth to every match.
What sets Valorant apart is its sharp design, layered team mechanics, and the cosmetic world surrounding it – yes, I’m talking about those coveted Valorant skins. The 5V5 format of the game creates intense round-based competition where each decision carries weight. So, it becomes important for teams to change their play positions regularly and learn the right way to establish their agents.
Each agent can have a unique skill set, which adds more layers to the gameplay. Pro esports teams often construct their team lineups around certain agents to pull off specific strategies. It makes each match more exciting.
My Verdict: A fresh take on the FPS genre, where every match feels unique. Valorant is ideal for players who enjoy team-based gameplay with a tactical edge.
What do pro players say?
4. EA Sports FC [Best Soccer Simulation Esports Game]
| Our score | 9.6
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| Platforms | PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X/S, Xbox One, PC, Switch, Switch 2 |
| Year of Release | 2025 |
| Developer | EA Romania, EA Canada, Electronic Arts |
| Average Playtime | ~10–15 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Competitive players, fans of realistic soccer gameplay |
| Active player base (2025) | ~1,899 |
EA Sports FC builds on the legacy of its predecessors, FIFA, giving the world a soccer simulation that is both incredibly detailed and fast-paced. With improved graphics, smoother player animations, and a more intuitive control system, this game pushes the boundaries of realism in the soccer genre.
EA Sports FC brings to life the sport’s most iconic teams, stadiums, and the best players, where fans are getting the most authentic soccer experience available in esports today.
With its hyper-realistic gameplay, global reach, and massive prize pools, EA Sports FC remains the ultimate football esports experience, attracting millions of players and viewers worldwide.
The game continues to thrive in the competitive scene, with the Global Series offering top-tier tournaments with $5 million prize pools. In addition to the esports tournaments, Ultimate Team remains the cornerstone of the game, where players build their dream teams, compete in ranked modes, and chase rewards through daily challenges.
The game’s dynamic approach to player performance and deep customization ensures that no two matches are the same, which makes it an exhilarating experience for both players and spectators.
My Verdict: If you’re a football fan, EA Sports FC is your go-to title for top-tier football action. The combination of realism, deep customization, and a constantly evolving esports scene makes it a must-play in the competitive gaming world.
What do pro players say?
5. Fortnite [Best Battle Royale Game]
| Our score | 9.5
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| Platforms | Windows, macOS, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android |
| Year of Release | 2017 |
| Developer | Epic Games |
| Average Playtime | ~20–40 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Creative battle royale with building mechanics |
| Daily active player base (2025) | Around 2.2 million |
Before Fortnite, nobody took battle royale seriously. The game flipped the script. Now it’s one of the best TPS games, proving that massive multiplayer formats can deliver heart-stopping competitive moments, ones worth millions in prize money.
To date, the game has distributed over $193 million in prize money in different esports tournaments. This makes it the second-highest-paying game in esports history. Solo and duo formats of Fortnite provide individual achievement recognition alongside team-based competitions. This is a major appeal to different competitive preferences within the broader esports market.
Fortnite revolutionized the battle royale genre with its building mechanics and multiplayer fun. Its accessibility and competitive rewards attract both casual and pro players.
Gameplay-wise, Fortnite mixes fast building and sharpshooting. Watch a Fortnite match, and you’ll see why it’s more than a game. It’s part shooter, part construction simulator, and part chess match. Players don’t just battle. They come up with entire strategies in moments, making every game a crazy, off-the-wall spectacle.
Above all, Fortnite‘s biggest strength in the esports industry might be how easy it is to jump in. The game keeps players of all skill levels chasing wins – and climbing the Fortnite ranks. Mobile esports opportunities through Fortnite have opened professional competition. Players can now drop into a pro lobby from a console, a tablet, or a budget laptop and still compete head-to-head.
My Verdict: Fortnite redefined competitive gaming that offers an experience that combines building, shooting, and strategy. A top-tier choice for all types of players.
What do pro players say?
6. Call of Duty [Best Fast-Paced Shooter]
| Our score | 9.4
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| Platforms | PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One & Series X/S |
| Year of Release | 2003-2024 |
| Developer | Infinity Ward (Warzone 2.0), Treyarch (Black Ops 6), Raven Software |
| Average Playtime | ~15–30 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Fast-paced, competitive FPS action |
| Daily active player base (2025) | Around 15 million (Warzone 2.0), around 3 million (Black Ops 6) |
Ever since the first game in the series was released in 2003, Call of Duty has always dabbled in competitive play. However, it wasn’t until shortly after the release of the first Modern Warfare game in 2007 that it started evolving into a full-on eSport. These days, it’s hard to imagine the esports scene without games like Black Ops 6 and Warzone.
Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 gained popularity in the esports world after becoming part of the 2025 esports World Cup in Riyadh. The July tournament will distribute $1.8 million in prize money, which establishes Black Ops 6 as a prominent tournament this year. Players and spectators alike are counting the days and swapping strategy tips online.
Call of Duty’s fast-paced action and consistent updates make it a staple in the esports community. Its presence in the World Cup solidifies its place as a competitive powerhouse.
For longtime fans keeping track of the Call of Duty games, Black Ops 6 stands out as a fresh yet familiar chapter in the franchise’s competitive legacy. It brings refined gunplay and esports-ready features that align perfectly with today’s fast-paced standards.
But while Black Ops 6 will inevitably get replaced by the next mainline Call of Duty game, Warzone, which is now going under the name Warzone 2.0, keeps pulling players back in, year after year, with what it’s always done well: top-tier battle royale gameplay, fantastic gunplay, fast-paced action, and a map that never stops evolving.
When Verdansk made its return, viewership spiked. That event pulled in 163,000 peak viewers on Twitch, the highest for any Warzone tournament so far. The game’s also headed to the esports World Cup in Riyadh this summer. Last year’s event had 21 pro teams competing for a $1 million prize. The 2025 edition is expected to bring the same kind of intensity.
Both Warzone and Black Ops 6 have dropped recent patches packed with new weapons like the RC10, LC10, and EFAR, along with fresh maps and game modes. These regular updates keep the esports scene buzzing, help maintain strong weekly viewership, and push teams to keep adapting in every tournament.
My Verdict: Call of Duty is a legendary franchise that continues to deliver top-tier esports action. If you want fast, intense shooting action, CoD has you covered.
What do pro players say?
7. Apex Legends [Best Battle Royale Hero Shooter]
| Our score | 9.2
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| Platforms | PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One & Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| Year of Release | 2019 |
| Developer | Respawn Entertainment |
| Average Playtime | ~20–30 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Hero-based battle royale with movement focus |
| Active player base (2025) | Around 2.5 million |
Apex Legends is another of the most popular titles among the biggest esports games this year. The first ALGS-Open welcomed 160 teams in New Orleans, including professionals and rising troops, fighting for a $ 1 million prize pool in acute LAN days. That scale alone shows how competing games have increased around the match Royale Hero Shooter.
Year 5 entered with eye-catching upgrades. Strict regional locks vanished, E-District joined the map rotation, and now there are Legend bans that force captains to scrap and rethink their game plans. Fans love how each match now feels healthy.
Apex Legends stands out with its unique character abilities and fast-paced gameplay. The game’s focus on team synergy and strategy makes every match exciting and dynamic.
The Year 4 Championship in Sapporo pulled in over 34,000 fans, and the Daiwa House Stadium was packed. Online, Apex Legends hit around 540,000 peak viewers, putting it in the same league as some of the biggest names in esports.
Even with constant patch updates and meta changes, teams like Team Falcons and Reject Winnity are finding their rhythm and gaining real fan bases. Mobile esports is booming, event formats keep evolving, and Apex Legends is clearly a top-tier title right now.
My Verdict: A must-play for fans of battle royale and hero shooters. Apex blends fun gameplay with strategic depth, which keeps players engaged round after round.
What do pro players say?
8. Dota 2 [Best Competitive MOBA]
| Our score | 9
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| Platforms | PC |
| Year of Release | 2013 |
| Developer | Valve Corporation |
| Average Playtime | ~35–45 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Complex strategic MOBA with high skill ceiling |
| Active player base (2025) | Around 500,000 |
Dota 2 remains a pillar of the multiplayer online battle arena genre and a major force in popular esports games. The International 2024 in Copenhagen drew over 1.5 million concurrent viewers, even with a smaller prize pool of around $2.6 million. And this is proof that the game’s high-stakes drama pulls in audiences and dozens of esports organizations, whether the prize pool is at its highest or not.
Beyond the main event, a packed 2025 calendar keeps its esports ecosystem moving. Valve and PGL are rolling out tournaments like BLAST Slam II and multiple Wallachia seasons, each offering prize pools from hundreds of thousands to over a million dollars.
Dota 2’s complexity and depth make it a top choice for hardcore gamers. The game’s tactical nature and massive prize pools continue to attract esports giants and fans.
Besides, what makes Dota 2’s competitive scene unique is its depth. Matches are tactical marathons with roles, drafts, and timing, pushing teams to work out multi-layered plans. That complexity draws in hardcore audiences and adds weight to its long-standing esports history.
The upcoming International 2025 is returning to Europe, Copenhagen, in September. And Valve is planning a more balanced qualifier system, sustainability steps, and enhanced broadcasts. For fans, that means bigger stage production and fresh twists on familiar formats!
My Verdict: A pillar of the esports world, Dota 2 remains the go-to for competitive MOBA players. Its strategic depth and high-stakes tournaments keep it relevant and exciting.
What do pro players say?
9. PUBG: Battlegrounds [Best Tactical Battle Royale]
| Our score | 8.9
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| Platforms | PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Stadia, Mobile (Android & iOS) |
| Year of Release | 2017 |
| Developer | KRAFTON |
| Average Playtime | ~20–30 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Realistic tactical battle royale |
| Active player base (2025) | Around 700,000 |
PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, better known as PUBG, has played a major part in shaping competitive gaming. Dropping 100 players into a massive map and letting strategy decide the outcome was a fresh take when it launched, and it still delivers intense moments today.
Events like the PUBG Global Series 2025 brought together top-tier players and big-name teams like Gen.G, NAVI, and Twisted Minds. They fought it out for a huge prize pool, while fans watched in the millions across platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
PUBG’s combination of tactical gameplay and high-pressure moments makes it a unique and thrilling experience. It continues to be a major force in battle royale esports.
PUBG runs smoothly on both PC and mobile, which has helped it grow fast in the mobile esports space. The mobile version is especially huge in South and East Asia, where local leagues and sponsor-backed tournaments draw serious competition and big crowds. Those regions continue to be a key part of PUBG‘s long-term esports plans.
Even with new games coming out, PUBG has kept its own lane. The mix of tactical gameplay and high-stakes moments keeps it relevant. A lot of casual players still tune in to pro matches, whether to pick up new strategies or just to watch the final circles play out with everything on the line.
My Verdict: This one is a battle royale with real depth and tension. If you’re into strategic play with a mix of action and suspense, PUBG is hard to beat.
What do pro players say?
10. Rocket League [Best Sports Esports Game]
| Our score | 8.8
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| Platforms | PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One & Series X/S, Nintendo Switch |
| Year of Release | 2015 |
| Developer | Psyonix |
| Average Playtime | ~5–10 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Competitive vehicular soccer |
| Active player base (2025) | Around 30,000 |
Rocket League remains a standout in the esports industry because of its unique blend of soccer and high-flying car action. The RLCS Birmingham Major in March drew over 287,000 peak viewers. Though it was slightly down from previous years.
But despite that dip, the Grand Final between Karmine Corp and The Ultimates kept fans glued to their screens. Psyonix and BLAST enhanced the Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) this year with a total $5 million prize pool and introduced a new 1v1 format alongside the standard 3v3 competition.
Rocket League combines the fun of soccer with rocket-powered cars for a fast, exciting esports experience. The game’s competitive scene is growing, which offers high-energy matches and accessible gameplay.
Format updates also brought “Last Chance Qualifiers” and expanded the World Championship to 20 teams. Regions now cover Europe, North America, South America, MENA, APAC, and Sub‑Saharan Africa, showing how global the esports market has grown.
These changes give underdog teams a real shot and broaden the competitive pool for viewers. Psyonix is also making sure things last behind the scenes. The publishers are updating contracts and improving prize money. Even the in-game shop is changing, swapping tokens for credits, which shows a commitment to long-term stability.
My Verdict: This one is a unique take on sports games that brings non-stop excitement. Rocket League guarantees something fresh for both casual and pro players alike.
What do pro players say?
11. Street Fighter [Best Fighting Game Esports]
| Our score | 8.7
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| Platforms | PC, PlayStation 4 & 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch 2 (Street Fighter VI) |
| Year of Release | 1987-2023 |
| Developer | Capcom, Dimps |
| Average Playtime | ~5–15 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Competitive fighting games |
| Active player base (2025) | Around 30,000 (Street Fighter VI) |
Street Fighter is without a doubt one of the most iconic fighting games and esports titles ever made. From its debut in 1987 with Street Fighter to its most recent release, Street Fighter VI in 2023, it’s been a constant presence in competitive gaming.
The Street Fighter esports scene has been thriving for decades. The game has become the backbone of fighting game tournaments, with huge events like the Evo Championship Series drawing players from around the world.
By 2025, the level of competition is mind-blowing, with top players battling for a massive prize pool that’s pushing $1 million in some events. That’s no small feat for a game that’s stayed relevant for so long!
Street Fighter’s legacy in esports is unmatched, with a blend of classic gameplay and modern strategies. Its accessibility and high skill ceiling keep players engaged for years.
What makes Street Fighter great in esports is that it’s easy to get into but hard to master. Whether you’re watching high-flying combo specialists or defensive strategists, every match has a unique feel. Button mashing alone is not enough – you have to understand your opponent, adapt, and pull off moves with perfect timing.
What started out as a friendly competition on arcade machines between friends evolved into something that most couldn’t imagine modern esports without, and that’s exactly why Street Fighter is so amazing.
My Verdict: Street Fighter is a true esports legend. No matter if you’re a casual fan or a competitive player, its deep mechanics and high stakes make it a standout.
What do pro players say?
12. StarCraft [Best RTS Esports Game]
| Our score | 8.6
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| Platforms | PC |
| Year of Release | 1996-2010 |
| Developer | Blizzard Entertainment |
| Average Playtime | ~20–30 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Competitive RTS games |
| Active player base (2025) | Around 25,000 (StarCraft II) |
StarCraft is one of those esports legends that has been around forever, and despite the last game, StarCraft II, being released over a decade ago, its popularity is still massive.
The StarCraft series has been at the heart of esports since the late 90s, and even in 2025, it’s still thriving. From the legendary Brood War era to the StarCraft II tournaments, the game’s competitive scene only keeps growing.
The stakes keep growing, too. For example, the Global StarCraft II League (GSL) and World Championship Series (WCS) continue to pull in massive audiences, with top players battling for prize pools that can top $500,000.
StarCraft has been the standard-bearer for competitive RTS gaming for years that ensure both complex strategies and thrilling competition, all while maintaining a global presence in esports.
The blend of strategy, micro-management, and raw skill makes it an incredibly competitive game. There simply isn’t a more immersive RTS game out there, and it’s not for the lack of titles in the genre. StarCraft is just that brilliant.
It’s all about strategy at lightning speed. Every move counts, and the skill ceiling is incredibly high, making each match feel fresh and exciting. Just like the Street Fighter franchise, StarCraft is one of the OGs that the modern esports scene wouldn’t be the same without.
My Verdict: A true esports legend, StarCraft remains a game that tests the skill, strategy, and mental fortitude of players. Its competitive depth and global community make it a timeless staple in the RTS esports scene.
What do pro players say?
13. Arena of Valor [Best Mobile MOBA Esports Game]
| Our score | 8.5
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| Platforms | iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch |
| Year of Release | 2016 |
| Developer | TiMi Studios |
| Average Playtime | ~10-20 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Fast-paced MOBA gameplay, similar to League of Legends |
| Active player base (2025) | Around 12 million |
Arena of Valor has quickly established itself as one of the most exciting mobile MOBA games in the esports world. With fast-paced 5v5 gameplay, players must work together to control the map, secure objectives, and battle for victory.
The game offers a wide range of unique heroes, each with their own abilities and strategic roles, which creates endless possibilities for team compositions and strategies.
Arena of Valor has grown into a dominant esports force, particularly in Southeast Asia, where the game enjoys a massive player base. The game’s competitive structure is well-supported by regional and international tournaments, with the World Cup offering a $5 million prize pool for top teams.
With its strategic depth, and enormous esports presence, Arena of Valor is the leading mobile MOBA, which provides both accessibility and depth for all levels of players.
Whether played on the go or at a professional level, the game maintains its competitive edge by frequently updating heroes, maps, and gameplay mechanics to keep the experience fresh.
The mobile esports scene has seen rapid growth, and Arena of Valor stands at the forefront, with a competitive environment that appeals to both casual players and esports professionals. It’s a dynamic, high-skill game that rewards team coordination and strategic thinking.
My Verdict: For fans of mobile esports and MOBA gameplay, Arena of Valor is unmatched. It guarantees exhilarating gameplay, a thriving competitive community, and large-scale events that make it an essential title for competitive mobile gaming.
What do pro players say?
14. Honor of Kings [Best Chinese Mobile Esports Game]
| Our score | 8.4
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| Platforms | iOS, Android (China-exclusive) |
| Year of Release | 2015 |
| Developer | TiMi Studios |
| Average Playtime | ~10–20 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | MOBA games with deep lore and historical themes |
| Active player base (2025) | Over 100 million |
Honor of Kings is the flagship mobile esports title in China, where it boasts millions of active players.
The game’s combination of accessible controls and deep strategic gameplay has made it a cultural phenomenon, with players competing in intense 5v5 matches to destroy enemy towers and claim victory. Each hero in the game has a unique set of abilities, offering players the chance to create customized team compositions to maximize their chances of success.
The competitive scene for Honor of Kings is massive, particularly in China, where it has become the centerpiece of mobile esports. With major tournaments offering $10 million in prize pools, the game is a mainstay in international esports competitions.
With its huge player base, regular updates, and world-class competitive events, Honor of Kings remains a mobile esports juggernaut that leads the charge for mobile gaming.
As the game continues to expand globally, it’s attracting competitive players from all over the world, contributing to its growth in popularity and esports infrastructure.
This year, Honor of Kings remains a dominant force in the mobile esports scene, with constant updates and fresh hero releases keeping the gameplay exciting and engaging. Its massive player base, frequent tournaments, and huge prize pools make it an essential esports title for competitive mobile players.
My Verdict: For players looking for high-stakes mobile esports action, Honor of Kings is perfect for an exciting and ever-evolving experience. Its deep strategic gameplay and massive tournaments make it a top choice for competitive mobile gamers.
What do pro players say?
15. Brawl Stars [Best Casual Mobile Esports Game]
| Our score | 8.3
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| Platforms | iOS, Android |
| Year of Release | 2017 |
| Developer | Supercell |
| Average Playtime | ~5–10 minutes / session |
| Best for Fans of | Casual, fast-paced multiplayer battles |
| Active player base (2025) | Around 70,550 |
Brawl Stars brings a unique mix of casual fun and competitive esports action. Players can jump into short, high-intensity 3v3 matches or participate in other game modes, such as Brawl Ball and Gem Grab, to earn rewards and climb the leaderboard.
The simplicity of the gameplay makes it incredibly accessible, but the competitive depth ensures that players can continuously improve their skills and strategies.
Brawl Stars combines fast-paced gameplay, accessible mechanics, and a growing competitive scene – perfect for casual players who want to experience esports without the steep learning curve.
Esports tournaments like the Brawl Stars World Finals feature a $1 million prize pool, and the game’s competitive scene continues to grow with regular updates and new seasonal events.
No matter if you’re a casual player enjoying quick matches or a pro competing in high-stakes tournaments, Brawl Stars will give you a fun and intense experience for all levels of play.
The game’s colorful cast of characters and varied abilities add to the excitement, which makes every match feel fresh. Its engaging multiplayer modes and competitive ladder system provide hours of entertainment, both in solo and team formats.
My Verdict: For casual esports players, Brawl Stars is a fun, action-packed experience with a competitive edge. Its easy-to-learn mechanics, combined with a thriving competitive ecosystem, make it one of the best casual esports games in mobile gaming.
What do pro players say?
Beyond Traditional Esports
When we think of esports, we usually picture League of Legends, Rocket League, or Counter-Strike, right? But there’s a whole world of competitive gaming that goes beyond the traditional, and it can be just as exciting.
There are plenty of games that have stepped outside the box.
Chess as an Esport
It may sound weird at first, but chess has now officially entered the esports scene, and it’s incredibly captivating. Watching a grandmaster make those mind-bending moves in front of thousands online is no less intense than any MOBA game, especially now that the prize pool for major chess tournaments is on the rise.
Microsoft Excel World Championship
There are also some totally unique competitions, like the Microsoft Excel World Championship. Yes, you read that right. A tournament where players race against the clock to solve complex problems in Excel, bringing in competition, skill, and precision, much like competitive video games. The fact that this even exists shows how esports can stretch into just about any realm.
Speedrunning Tournaments
Let’s not forget the rise of speedrunning, where players race to complete a game as fast as possible, often using crazy techniques and glitches. Events like SGDQ (Summer Games Done Quick) are huge, raising millions for charity while pushing players to break records. These aren’t your typical professional tournaments, but the thrill they bring is almost unmatched.
These alternative esports scenes are only growing. From mobile esports tournaments to niche games gaining mainstream attention, the esports ecosystem is expanding in all sorts of unexpected ways. Anything it’s possible, and that makes it insanely exciting. Because who knows what might happen next? Your guess is as good as mine.
My Overall Verdict on the Most Popular Esports Games
When it comes to the most popular esports games today, there’s something for everyone. The esports scene has evolved to provide experiences that cater to every type of gamer:
- For competitive FPS fans → Counter-Strike 2. A classic tactical shooter with deep strategy and a thriving esports scene, perfect for those who crave precision and teamwork.
- For MOBA enthusiasts → League of Legends. The ultimate test of strategy, teamwork, and individual skill, with millions of players competing in one of the most robust esports ecosystems.
- For battle royale lovers → Fortnite. Fast-paced action and massive prize pools make it the go-to choice for anyone looking for intense competitive moments.
- For sports game fans → EA Sports FC. With its realistic gameplay and expansive modes, EA Sports FC is the most authentic soccer experience in esports today.
- For RPG fans → Valorant. A hero-based FPS with deep tactical elements that has strategic gameplay that keeps both pros and casual players coming back for more.
No matter your playstyle, the most popular esports games today give you something to get excited about.
The esports scene continues to grow, so it’s the best time to gear up with the best gaming PC and your trusty FPS mouse and give these titles a go!
FAQs
What’s the most popular esports game?
Right now, League of Legends leads the pack. Its last World Championship pulled in nearly 7 million peak viewers, and it has the most active pro scene across several regions.
What counts as an esports game?
Esports games are titles built for or adapted to competitive play. They usually have ranked modes, tournaments, and pro-level events. Think of them like digital sports – teams, leagues, fans, and prize pools included.
Which game has the biggest esports presence?
Dota 2 takes the prize pool crown with over $370 million handed out so far. But League of Legends has the largest global reach, with regular international events and a huge player base.
What was the first real esports game?
Competitive gaming started in arcades in the ’70s, but the game Counter-Strike in the 2000s really shaped the esports scene as we know it today.
