Multiplayer online battle arena MOBA

An increasingly popular subgenre with connections to a variety of other styles, multiplayer online battle arena games share many features with real-time strategy games. There’s a top-down perspective that emphasizes map and resource management, plus real-time competition between players.
The major difference between MOBAs and RTS games is the player’s character and role. In a MOBA, you may have a faction alignment and many of the RTS basics in play, but you typically only control a single character. That’s a significant contrast with most RTS games, where you build communities and command multiple units.
MOBA games also prioritize multiplayer and team play. While some well-known titles feature AI-controlled elements, you usually play with and compete against other human players to meet a set of victory conditions.
The niche is dominated by Dota 2 and League of Legends, both of which have developed substantial audiences in eSports. Want to know more about this growing genre? Check out our list of the Top 10 Best MOBA Games for PC today to dive into the most popular titles.
MOBA examples
  • Dota 2
  • League of Legends
  • Smite