Unleash New Battles: Top League of Legends Alternative Games to Play Now
League of Legends is an action RTS game, inspired by the popular Defense of the Ancients (Dota 2) map that was made for Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne. Players form two even teams of champions in either a 3v3 or 5v5 match, aiming to destroy the opposing team's Nexus or force a surrender. While incredibly popular and available on Windows and Mac (with Linux compatibility via Wine), many players seek fresh experiences or different takes on the MOBA genre. Whether you're looking for unique gameplay mechanics, different platform availability, or simply a change of scenery, exploring a League of Legends alternative can rejuvenate your gaming passion.
Top League of Legends Alternatives
If you've spent countless hours on Summoner's Rift and are craving something new, or if League of Legends simply isn't your cup of tea, there are a plethora of fantastic MOBA titles waiting for you. Dive into these compelling alternatives that offer unique twists on the classic formula, diverse rosters, and engaging gameplay experiences.
Heroes of the Storm
Heroes of the Storm is a F2P multiplayer online battle arena video game developed by Blizzard Entertainment for Microsoft Windows and OS X. It offers a unique take on the MOBA genre by focusing less on individual last-hitting and more on team objectives and shared experience, making it a great League of Legends alternative for players who prefer faster-paced, objective-driven gameplay. Its features include action combat, competitive analysis, free to play access, and robust multiplayer gaming.
Dota 2
Dota 2 is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) video game developed and published by Valve Corporation. As the spiritual successor to Defense of the Ancients, it provides a very deep and complex experience with a steep learning curve, making it a compelling League of Legends alternative for those seeking a more challenging and strategic game. It's available on Freemium, Mac, Windows, Linux, and Steam, featuring multiplayer, RTS elements, free to play access, in-game trading, multiple languages, and a classic top-down camera.
Smite
SMITE is a third-person MOBA that places the camera behind the god, offering a unique perspective compared to traditional top-down MOBAs. This change in perspective provides a more immersive and action-oriented experience, making it an excellent League of Legends alternative for players who enjoy direct combat and a different visual style. Smite is free to play on Mac, Windows, Steam, Playstation, and Xbox, and boasts engaging multiplayer with a strong third-person perspective.
Heroes of Newerth
Heroes of Newerth (HoN) is a game imitating the look of DOTA, now with a dedicated server and ratings saved in your history to make matches equally fighting for both parts. It offers a fast-paced and competitive MOBA experience, often considered a good League of Legends alternative for players who appreciate precise mechanics and a focus on team coordination. It's available for Free on Mac, Windows, and Linux, and features strong gaming and multiplayer elements.
Vainglory
Vainglory is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) video game by Super Evil Megacorp for iOS and Android. Designed specifically for mobile platforms, it offers a simplified yet deep MOBA experience tailored for touchscreens. This makes it an ideal League of Legends alternative for gamers who prefer to play on the go. It's free to play with features like gaming, mobile optimization, multiplayer, online gaming, and RTS elements to help you stay focused.
Mobile Legends: Bang bang
Choose your favorite heroes and build the perfect team with your comrades-in-arms! Mobile Legends: Bang Bang offers fast-paced 10-second matchmaking and 10-minute battles, making it a highly accessible and engaging mobile MOBA. It's a fantastic League of Legends alternative for players seeking quick, action-packed matches on Android, iPhone, Android Tablet, and iPad. Features include achievements, free to play access, in-game chat, and robust multiplayer.
Bloodline Champions
Bloodline Champions (BLC) is an arena-based free-to-play PvP game developed by the Swedish company Stunlock Studios. It focuses heavily on skill-shot combat and a lack of items or leveling during matches, emphasizing pure player skill. For those seeking a more direct, arena-style combat experience as a League of Legends alternative, BLC on Windows offers free to play PvP and RTS elements.
Awesomenauts
Awesomenauts is a MOBA and an accessible 3-on-3 action 2D-platformer. This unique blend of genres offers a fresh and fun approach to the MOBA formula, perfect for players looking for a more casual or side-scrolling League of Legends alternative. It's available for Free on Mac, Windows, and Linux, and offers enjoyable gaming and multiplayer experiences.
Deadbreed
Deadbreed is a creepy-themed, hardcore team arena brawler with unique hero customization and RPG gameplay features. It offers a darker, more mature aesthetic and intricate customization options, making it an interesting League of Legends alternative for those who enjoy character progression and a distinct atmosphere. Deadbreed is free to play on Windows, Linux, and Steam, featuring multiplayer, RTS elements, gaming, and a third-person perspective.
Ember Conflict
Ember Conflict is an action-packed real-time multiplayer strategy game. Command unique forces using fast and intuitive controls, and team up with an ally or lead the charge solo. This mobile-first RTS offers a different kind of strategic challenge, serving as a solid League of Legends alternative for players who enjoy real-time strategy with a focus on quick tactical decisions on iPhone and iPad. It's free to play, with strong multiplayer and RTS features.
With so many incredible MOBAs and strategy games available, finding your perfect League of Legends alternative is easier than ever. Whether you prioritize intense competitive play, a unique visual style, mobile accessibility, or a fresh set of mechanics, there's a game out there for every type of player. We encourage you to explore these options and discover your next favorite battleground!