You’re a big fan of League of Legends, right? Well, you’re not alone. This thrilling MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) game has captured the hearts of millions globally with its strategic gameplay and captivating characters. But suppose you’ve done your fair share of Champion smashing, jungle lurking, and Nexus defending and are keen to explore other high-octane games in the genre? Not to worry, your gaming adventure doesn’t have to end here.
This article is set to guide you through a carefully compiled list of 8 enthralling games much like League of Legends, each described with specifics including their release date, game genre, available platforms, and highlights of how they echo the beloved elements of League of Legends.
Let’s get you powered up for your next gaming expedition!
League of Legends Short Introduction
Overview of what League of Legends is
If you’re a gaming enthusiast, chances are you’ve heard of or played League of Legends. This multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed by Riot Games involves two teams of five players, each going head to head in a strategy-based battle. The goal? To destroy the enemy’s nexus located at the heart of the base, all while navigating a map filled with minions, turrets, and enemy champions.
Popularity and player base
League of Legends, often referred to as LoL by the gaming community, has quickly risen to fame since its release in 2009. With a massive player base estimated to be in the millions, it continues to reign supreme as one of the most played and viewed games globally, particularly in eSports.
Typical game mechanics
In League of Legends, you will select a champion to control, each with unique abilities and gameplay styles. Besides individual prowess, teamwork is crucial – the game demands strategic planning, resource management, and excellent team coordination.
League of Legends: Wild Rift
Release year and developer
2020 saw the launch of League of Legends: Wild Rift, another innovative release from Riot Games, the same developer behind the original League of Legends.
The genre of the game
Similar to its predecessor, Wild Rift falls into the MOBA genre. Here you’re also tasked with controlling a champion, working with your team, and taking out the enemy nexus.
Available platform and compatibility
Unlike LoL, which is only available for PC, Wild Rift was designed for the mobile platform and is available on Android and iOS devices, aiming to bring the thrill of the game to players on the go.
In-depth comparison to League of Legends
While Wild Rift retains the core gameplay mechanics of the original LoL, it introduces some variations. Matches are shorter, the map is slightly different, and the controls are optimized for touchscreen devices.
1. Vainglory
Year of release and producer
Next up, we have Vainglory, a MOBA game released by Super Evil Megacorp in 2014.
Classification of game genre
Just like League of Legends, Vainglory falls under the MOBA genre. You find yourself on a team, battling against enemies and working together to achieve a common objective.
Supported devices/platforms
Vainglory is available on multiple platforms, both mobile devices and PCs, thereby offering more accessibility to players.
Detailed comparison with League of Legends
In essence, both LoL and Vainglory share much in common. However, Vainglory sets itself apart with its focus on tap controls for mobile and a more compact playing field, making it a faster-paced game.
2. Arena of Valor
Launch date and creation team
Arena of Valor, developed by Tencent Games’ TiMi Studios, appeared in the gaming world in 2017.
Type of game
This game is another representative of the MOBA genre. It builds on the familiar components of the genre, with additional elements to spice up the gameplay.
Possible platforms
Arena of Valor is available on iOS, Android, and even Nintendo Switch, rendering it accessible to a wider player base.
Comprehensive comparison with League of Legends
Both being MOBAs, some common points inevitably exist. However, Arena of Valor recommends itself with unique 1v1 and 3v3 gaming modes and a broader set of heroes inspired by various mythical entities.
3. Smite
Date of introduction and creator
In 2014, Hi-Rez Studios released Smite, another game that takes cues from the MOBA genre.
Gameplay genre
Indeed, Smite is also a MOBA, albeit with its creative twist to the formula.
Console availability
One of Smite’s unique aspects is its availability on consoles like Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox, unlike most MOBA games that are mainly PC-focused.
How Smite is similar to League of Legends
While the essence of MOBA gameplay is intact, Smite creates a new experience via mythology-themed settings and characters, a third-person perspective, and diverse game modes.
4. Bloodline Champions
Year and company of release
Stunlock Studios grabbed the gaming industry’s attention in 2011 by releasing their thrilling game, Bloodline Champions.
Game Category
This game is an interesting cocktail of the battle royale and MOBA genres, offering unique experiences and challenges to players.
Supported platforms
Bloodline Champions is available only on Windows, catering primarily to the PC gaming community.
Detailed similarity to League of Legends
Although it borrows concepts from MOBAs like LoL, Bloodline Champions thrusts players into quick, adrenaline-pumping 2v2, 3v3, and 5v5 modes with no minions and constant PvP action.
5. DOTA 2
Year of launch and developer
One cannot discuss MOBAs without mentioning one of the genre’s pioneers- DOTA 2, developed by Valve Corporation and debuted in 2013.
Game’s genre
DOTA 2 belongs to the MOBA genre, being a direct successor to the original Defense of the Ancients, which started the genre.
Platform availability
DOTA 2 is available on multiple platforms, including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
Analysis of relation with League of Legends
Both games rise from the same mold. However, DOTA 2 sets itself apart by offering longer and more complex games, with role synergies and strategies being significantly deeper than in LoL.
6. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
Launch date and producer
Moonton brought Mobile Legends: Bang Bang to the gaming scene in 2016.
Type of game
Mobile Legends is another byproduct of the MOBA genre, gaining popularity among mobile gamers.
Device compatibility
As the name suggests, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is specifically designed for mobile gaming, available on both Android and iOS platforms.
How is it related to League of Legends
While the MOBA basics are present, Mobile Legends offers a more simplified experience with less demanding graphics and faster gameplay, making it a great mobile alternative to LoL.
7. Apex Legends
Release year and creator
Apex Legends, developed by Respawn Entertainment, hit the market in 2019 and quickly gained a large player base.
Game genre
Straying from the MOBA path, Apex Legends is a first-person shooter game but incorporates various elements from battle royale games.
Available platforms
Apex Legends is available for play on multiple platforms, including PlayStation 4, Xbox One, and Windows.
Comparison with League of Legends
Though not a MOBA, Apex Legends shares the same emphasis on team play and mastering different characters’ unique skills as seen in League of Legends.
8. Legends of Runeterra
Date of release and production team
Legends of Runeterra, another masterpiece from Riot Games, was launched in 2020.
Genre of the game
Unlike the previous Riot Games entries, Legends of Runeterra is a strategy card game, offering a fresh twist on the conventional LoL gameplay.
Compatible devices
This game is available for play on mobile devices (iOS and Android) and Windows, bridging the gap between PC and mobile gamers.
Relation to League of Legends
Legends of Runeterra is directly tied to the League of Legends universe, featuring champions from the game but in a strategic 1v1 card game setting. It offers a new way for fans to engage with their favorite LoL champions and lore.
