In recent years, the mobile gaming industry has experienced unprecedented growth, transforming from casual time-killers to thriving competitive esports. As smartphones become more powerful and accessible worldwide, mobile esports has emerged as a significant force in the gaming world, attracting millions of players and spectators alike. Alongside this, iGaming, which includes online gambling and casino games, has also been expanding rapidly. Both mobile gaming and iGaming benefit from the same trends: improved smartphones, faster internet, and greater accessibility.
As the mobile gaming market is expected to grow to USD 164.81 billion by 2029, iGaming is following suit, benefiting from mobile technology advancements. While they are different types of games, both markets share the advantage of being easily accessible on smartphones, giving players the freedom to play whenever and wherever they want.
For instance, the best online casinos in Malaysia now offer mobile-friendly websites and apps, providing an immersive experience right from your phone. These platforms feature stunning graphics, smooth touchscreen controls, and attractive bonuses that appeal to a wide range of players.
This blend of technology and convenience is driving growth across the entire mobile gaming world, whether it’s competitive esports or more casual casino gaming.
1. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB)
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) is a Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game developed by Moonton and released on July 14, 2016. It has achieved remarkable success in mobile esports, with a peak viewership of 2,382,990. MLBB’s accessibility and fast-paced gameplay have made it particularly popular in Southeast Asia and other regions. The game features multiple international tournaments throughout the year, including the prestigious M-Series World Championship, which offers multi-million dollar prize pools.
2. Arena of Valor (Honor of Kings)
Arena of Valor, known as Honor of Kings in China, is another MOBA game developed by TiMi Studio Group and released on October 12, 2016. It has garnered a massive following, especially in the Asian market, with a peak viewership of 656,556. The game’s strategic depth and polished mechanics have established it as a staple in the mobile esports scene. Tencent, the game’s publisher, has announced a significant $15 million investment to expand the game’s global esports presence in 2024.
3. PUBG Mobile
PUBG Mobile, a battle royale game developed by LightSpeed & Quantum Studio and PUBG Studios, was released on March 18, 2018. It revolutionized the battle royale genre on mobile platforms by offering a console-quality experience on smartphones. With a peak viewership of 513,680, PUBG Mobile’s competitive scene features numerous regional and international tournaments that attract players and viewers worldwide.
4. Free Fire
Free Fire, another battle royale game developed by Garena and 111 Dots Studio, was released on December 8, 2017. It has gained immense popularity, particularly in Southeast Asia, Latin America, and India, with a peak viewership of 340,521. Known for its fast-paced and accessible gameplay, Free Fire has established a significant presence in the mobile battle royale genre. The game regularly hosts large-scale esports tournaments that draw millions of viewers and substantial media attention.
5. Clash Royale
Clash Royale, a real-time strategy game developed by Supercell and released on March 2, 2016, has maintained a dedicated competitive scene since its launch. While its peak viewership of 45,692 is lower compared to other titles, Clash Royale’s unique blend of card collection and real-time strategy elements has created a distinct niche in the mobile esports landscape.
Emerging Trends and Future Contenders
As the mobile esports industry continues to evolve, several trends and upcoming titles are poised to shape its future:
- The mobile shooter market is set for potential changes with upcoming releases, VALORANT Mobile is expected released in mid-2025, with possible beta testing earlier. This title could impact the current mobile shooter landscape dominated by PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, and Call of Duty Mobile. They bring unique tactical gameplay from their PC versions, potentially introducing new competitive scenes to mobile esports. Their success will depend on mobile optimization, differentiation, and adaptation to mobile gaming preferences.
- The Esports World Cup, replacing Gamers8, is set to become a major event for mobile esports, featuring multiple titles across various platforms.
- The impending release of Free Fire India could significantly boost the game’s global esports presence, especially given India’s large mobile gaming market.
- Continued advancements in mobile technology, including more powerful devices and widespread 5G adoption, will likely lead to even more sophisticated mobile esports titles and experiences.
