The Most Popular Esports Games By Player Base and Viewership in 2025

Joseph Monday

Esports in 2025 is breaking records with more players and viewers than ever before. Competitive gaming continues to dominate, drawing millions to tournaments, live streams, and online battles. With over 318 million esports enthusiasts and 322.7 million occasional viewers, the industry has never been bigger. Some games lead the charge, pulling in massive peak viewership and maintaining thriving player bases. League of Legends sits at the top with 1.9 million peak viewers, while Counter-Strike, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Valorant, and Apex Legends follow closely. The subsequent sections ranks the most popular esports games of 2025 based on viewership and engagement.

Find out which titles are shaping the future of esports and why they continue to draw massive audiences this year. Dive in and explore the biggest games in esports today.

Criteria for Picking the Most Popular Esports Games

Ranking the most popular esports games requires analyzing key factors that define their influence in competitive gaming. These factors ensure that only the most impactful games make the list.

  • Viewership Numbers
    Viewership remains the primary ranking factor. High peak viewership during major tournaments reflects a game’s global appeal and engagement. We collected data from Twitch and YouTube, where millions tune in to watch top-tier competition. Games like League of Legends and Counter-Strike consistently dominate streaming platforms, drawing millions of concurrent viewers on Twitch. Viewership accounts for 50% of the ranking weight, as it directly measures a game’s reach and popularity.
  • Player Base
    A strong player base ensures a game’s longevity and active competition. We examined player numbers from third-party data mining sources like https://activeplayer.io/, alongside Play Store and App Store downloads for mobile titles. Consistently high engagement in ranked matches and casual play indicates a thriving game ecosystem. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and PUBG Mobile are two great esports games with hundreds of millions of daily active users. This metric contributes 30% to the ranking, emphasizing its role in sustaining a game’s competitive ecosystem.
  • Esports Presence
    A game’s success in the professional scene depends on tournament participation, prize pools, and developer support. Titles with significant backing from publishers and event organizers attract top-tier players and teams. Higher prize pools and frequent tournaments increase a game’s credibility in the esports space. Dota 2, with its record-breaking prize pools, and Apex Legends, with growing developer-backed events, stand out in this category.

We weighted viewership the highest, followed by player base and esports presence. This approach ensures rankings reflect both casual and competitive popularity.

League of Legends

League of Legends (LoL), developed by Riot Games, remains one of the most popular esports titles in 2025. This Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game has a massive global player base and a deep strategic gameplay system that keeps it at the forefront of competitive gaming.

The League of Legends World Championship (Worlds) is the most-watched esports event annually. The 2024 Worlds set a new record with 6.8 million peak viewers, making it the highest-viewed esports tournament in history. Previous years also saw massive viewership, with 6.4 million peak viewers in 2023 and 5.1 million in 2022. Riot Games’ robust tournament ecosystem, featuring regional leagues and international competitions, solidifies LoL’s dominance in the esports landscape.

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Player Base: Over 47.2 million active players in the last 30 days
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS
  • Peak Viewers: 9.9 million views on YouTube (Worlds 2024)
  • Major Esports Tournament: Worlds, Mid-Season Invitational (MSI), LEC, LCS, LCK, LPL
  • Game Genre: MOBA
  • Publisher: Riot Games

LoL’s structured competitive ecosystem spans 12 official regional leagues, with the most notable being LCK (South Korea), LPL (China), LEC (Europe), and LCS (North America). The Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) brings together the top teams from the spring split, while Worlds serves as the final showdown of the season. Prize pools consistently exceed $2 million, with some years ranking among the top esports payouts. Riot Games continues to refine the game with frequent updates, balancing, and community-driven events to keep both casual and competitive players engaged.

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), developed by Moonton, is another most popular mobile esports title this year. This Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game dominates the Southeast Asian esports scene with its accessibility and fast-paced gameplay. Players engage in strategic 5v5 battles, selecting unique heroes to compete for map control and victory.

The M6 World Championship in Kuala Lumpur showcased MLBB’s growing esports dominance. Fnatic ONIC PH secured their first title, defeating Team Liquid ID 4-1 in the grand final. This victory extended the Philippines’ dominance in MLBB’s competitive history. The tournament attracted 4.1 million peak viewers, reinforcing MLBB’s place among the top mobile esports games.

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Player Base: Over 52 million active players in the last 30 days.
  • Platforms: iOS, Android
  • Peak Viewers: Over 1.7 million viewers on YouTube (MLBB M6 World Championship 2024)
  • Major Esports Tournaments: M-Series World Championship, MPL (Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Professional League)
  • Game Genre: MOBA
  • Publisher: Moonton

MLBB’s structured esports ecosystem includes regional MPL leagues across Southeast Asia, featuring teams from Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, and beyond. The M-Series World Championship remains its flagship international event, drawing millions of viewers annually. Prize pools have steadily increased, with MLBB esports awarding $7.9 million in 2024 alone. Frequent updates, hero balancing, and community-driven events keep the competitive scene vibrant, securing MLBB’s status as a dominant force in mobile esports.

Counter-Strike

Counter-Strike remains one of the most enduring and influential first-person shooter (FPS) games in esports. Initially released in 1999, the franchise has maintained a dominant presence through Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) and its successor, Counter-Strike 2 (CS2). The game’s tactical depth, skill-based mechanics, and strong community make it a staple in competitive gaming.

The PGL Cluj-Napoca 2025 kept Counter-Strike strong in esports. The tournament, won by MOUZ, peaked at 539,700 viewers during the Grand Finals on February 23, 2025, according to Esports Charts. Valve’s partnership with ESL and PGL ensures a consistent tournament schedule, with events featuring prize pools ranging from $500,000 to $2 million.

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Player Base: Over 60 million active players.
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux
  • Peak Viewers: Over 1 million Viewers on YouTube (PGL Cluj-Napoca 2025)
  • Major Esports Tournaments: PGL Major, IEM Katowice, ESL Pro League, BLAST Premier
  • Game Genre: First-Person Shooter (FPS)
  • Publisher: Valve Corporation

Counter-Strike’s open tournament system allows independent organizers like ESL, PGL, and BLAST to host high-profile events. The game’s betting scene remains one of the most active in esports, further fueling engagement. Counter-Strike continues to thrive due to its structured competitive scene, consistent prize pools, and dedicated global fanbase.

Valorant

Valorant, developed by Riot Games, has rapidly ascended in the esports arena as a tactical first-person shooter (FPS) that blends precise gunplay with unique agent abilities. This fusion offers a fresh take on the FPS genre, attracting both players and viewers worldwide.

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Player Base: Over 25 million active players.
  • Platforms: Microsoft Windows.
  • Peak Viewers: Over 2.2 million viewers (VALORANT Masters Bangkok)
  • Major Esports Tournament: Valorant Champions Tour (VCT), including Masters and Champions events.
  • Game Genre: Tactical FPS.
  • Publisher: Riot Games.

The Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) serves as the game’s premier competitive circuit, featuring regional leagues that culminate in international events. In 2024, the VCT Masters Madrid showcased intense competition, with Sentinels clinching the title in a thrilling final against Gen.G.

This victory marked a significant moment for star player TenZ, who announced his retirement following the win, leaving a lasting legacy in the Valorant community.

Riot Games’ consistent support, through regular updates and community engagement, has fostered a thriving esports ecosystem. The game’s unique blend of tactical shooting and character abilities differentiates it from other titles in the genre, contributing to its rapid growth in both prize pools and audience numbers.

DOTA 2

Dota 2 continues to reign as a cornerstone of esports since it release in July 2013. It is known best for it annual esports event, The International.  With the last The International 2024 in Copenhagen drawing 1.5 million peak viewers and delivering unforgettable moments. This classic MOBA, developed by Valve, combines intricate gameplay, strategic depth, and massive prize pools, making it a fan favorite. The Dota 2 tournament featured a $30+ million prize pool, reinforcing it status as the pinnacle of competitive gaming.

The International 2024, held in Copenhagen, Denmark, showcased intense competition among the world’s top Dota 2 teams. Team Liquid emerged victorious, sweeping Gaimin Gladiators 3-0 in the grand final. 

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Platform: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux (via Steam).
  • Peak Viewers: 2.7 Million viewers on YouTube (The International 2024).
  • Major Esports Tournament: The International.
  • Game Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA).
  • Publisher: Valve Corporation.

Dota 2’s esports scene thrives on its flagship event and is believed that The International 2025 will hold a record for the large prize pool, creating electrifying experiences,  game’s hero diversity, team coordination, and high-stakes matches.

 

Brawl Stars

Brawl Stars continues to grow as a top mobile esports title, with its World Finals drawing massive attention. The 2024 Brawl Stars Championship in Helsinki showcased high-stakes competition, setting a record peak viewership of 1,103,153. This mobile hero shooter stands out with its fast-paced matches, unique mechanics, and accessibility.

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Player Base Count: 17 Millions of active monthly players globally
  • Platforms: iOS, Android
  • Peak Viewers: 537K viewers on YouTube (Brawl Stars Championship 2025: February South America Monthly FinalsBrawl Stars)
  • Major Esports Tournament: Brawl Stars Championship, Helsinki 2024
  • Game Genre: Hero Shooter / MOBA
  • Publisher: Supercell

Brawl Stars esports continues to expand, with 356 tournaments held to date. The 2024 Brawl Stars World Finals set new records, surpassing previous viewership. The most-watched match featured SK Gaming vs HMBLE, highlighting the intense competition.

The tournament’s $9,038,353 total prize pool cements its status as a serious mobile esport. Brawl Stars’ combination of strategic depth and accessibility makes it a standout in the mobile esports space. With a growing fanbase and strong esports support, its future remains bright.

PUBG Moblie

The PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC) 2024 electrified London’s ExCeL Arena, featuring elite teams competing for a $3 million prize pool. As the biggest event in PUBG Mobile esports, it showcased the game’s intense, strategic battle royale action.

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Player Base Count: Over 700K active players in the last one month.
  • Platforms:  Android and iOS.
  • Peak Viewers : 275K viewers on YouTube (2024 PMGC Grand Finals | Day 2).
  • Major Esports Tournament: The PUBG Mobile global champions, PUBG global Mobile open, .
  • Game Genre: Battle Royale.
  • Publisher: Tencent Games

PUBG Mobile’s esports ecosystem continues to expand with high-stakes tournaments and extensive regional qualifiers. The 2025 PUBG Mobile Global Open (PMGO) kicks off this April, featuring $500,000 at stake. As PUBG Mobile Esports announced:

“💰 $500,000 at stake! The road to glory begins at 2025 PMGO🏆 From Open Qualifiers Finals to the Main Event, every battle counts — who will rise to claim the lion’s share? 📅 Catch the action from April 9th-13th!” (PUBG Esports on X)

PUBG Mobile’s unique tournament structure allows players worldwide to compete, reinforcing its global reach. The game’s combination of tactical depth and high-paced action keeps fans engaged, with unpredictable comebacks like Team Alpha’s last-minute victory in 2024 creating unforgettable moments.

With its record-breaking viewership and prize pools, PUBG Mobile remains a dominant force in mobile esports.

Fortnite

Fortnite, developed by Epic Games, continues to dominate the esports landscape with its innovative gameplay and cultural significance. The Fortnite Championship Series (FNCS) Global Championship stands as a testament to its competitive scene’s vitality. In 2024, the FNCS Global Championship featured 50 teams competing for a $2,000,000 prize pool, showcasing the game’s enduring appeal.

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Player Base Count: Over 1.7M active players.
  • Platforms: Available on PC, consoles, and mobile devices.
  • Peak Viewers: 2.2 Million peak viewers on YouTube (FNCS GLOBAL CHAMPIONSHIP 2024)
  • Major Esports Tournament: Fortnite Championship Series (FNCS) Global Championship.
  • Game Genre: Battle Royale.
  • Publisher: Epic Games.

The permanent addition of Fortnite OG mode has kept the community engaged, offering both new and returning players a taste of the original experience.

Fortnite’s esports features include a robust tournament structure, regular seasonal competitions, and significant prize pools. The FNCS provides a platform for both established and emerging talent, with players like Pollo achieving remarkable feats, such as winning multiple FNCS Majors and the Global Championship in 2024.

In 2025, Fortnite’s viewership has seen a resurgence, attributed to the nostalgic appeal of Fortnite OG updates and the ongoing success of the FNCS. This revival entells the game’s ability to adapt and innovate, maintaining its relevance in the ever-evolving esports landscape.

Free Fire

Free Fire is one of the creative products from 111dots Studio and published by Garena. This game has solidified its position as a leading mobile battle royale game. As of 2025, it boasts a daily active user base of approximately 40 million players.

The game is exclusively available on mobile platforms, making it accessible to a vast audience.

Key Statistics (2025):

  • Player Base Count: 85 Million active players on average.
  • Platforms: Android and iOS.
  • Peak Viewers: 1.5M peak viewers on YouTube (FFWS Global Finals 2024)
  • Major Esports Tournament: Free Fire World Series.
  • Game Genre: Battle Royale.
  • Publisher: Garena.

The Free Fire World Series (FFWS) stands as the pinnacle of the game’s esports scene. In November 2024, the FFWS Global Finals took place at Carioca Arena 1 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. Brazilian team Fluxo emerged victorious, securing three Booyahs in the Grand Finals and earning a cash prize of $300,000.

Industry experts highlight Free Fire’s ability to cater to lower-end devices without compromising gameplay quality. This inclusivity has been pivotal in its global reach and sustained player engagement. As Free Fire continues to evolve, its commitment to delivering thrilling experiences ensures its place at the forefront of mobile esports.

Arena of Valor 

Arena of Valor (AoV) stands as a prominent mobile Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) game developed by TiMi Studios and published by Tencent Games. Since its release in 2016, it has captivated millions of players worldwide. The last Arena of Valor Premier League (APL) took place in Bangkok, Thailand, featuring a substantial $500,000 prize pool.

Key Statistics (2025):

Arena of Valor’s esports ecosystem is both sophisticated and expansive. The event featured 14 teams from regions including Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, and Taiwan, underscoring AoV’s strong regional presence.

AoV shares deep ties with Honor of Kings, its counterpart popular in China. Both games offer similar mechanics but feature distinct heroes and regional adaptations. This relationship enriches AoV content and provides players with a diverse and dynamic gaming experience. With innovative tournament formats, a dedicated player base, and strategic ties to Honor of Kings, AoV offers a unique and engaging experience for both players and spectators.

Conclusion

Esports in 2025 is at an all-time high, with millions of players and viewers engaging with their favorite games across multiple platforms. Some of the most popular esports games like League of Legends, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Counter-Strike, and Valorant continue to dominate the scene, showcasing their immense player bases, record-breaking viewership, and thriving professional ecosystems. 

With increasing developer investment, larger prize pools, and growing mainstream recognition, esports is no longer just a niche—it’s a global phenomenon. As technology and competitive gaming evolve, these games will continue shaping the future of digital entertainment, attracting new fans and pushing the boundaries of competitive play.

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