MOBA: meaning and characteristics of this style of play

MOBA is an electronic game genre that mixes elements of action, strategy and RPG (Role Playing Game).

The acronym MOBA comes from the English "Multiplayer Online Battle Arena” which stands for “multiplayer online battle arena”, in which players split into teams and play matches that last an average of between 30 minutes to 1 hour.

Despite having some similarities, the MOBA genre should not be confused with the MMO (massive multiplayer online), in which thousands of players interact simultaneously in an open online world, controlling a single character over the course of an indefinite campaign.

Thus, while the MMO is marked by “no end”, the MOBA has a maximum number of players and is defined in short matches in which one team wins. Once matches are completed, players do not transfer items or characters to the next ones.

MOBA games have become very popular around the world and are already moving millions of dollars a year in the gaming industry. sports (electronic sports). MOBA gaming competitions boast the highest awards in the industry and have distributed nearly $25 million in a single Dota 2 Championship in 2017.

How MOBAs Work

MOBA - Map

Map model used as a parameter in all current MOBAs, undergoing minor changes according to the game.

Most MOBAs have the same mechanics and goals. First, upon joining the game, players choose one of a roster of characters (or heroes) available. Each character has specific abilities, advantages and disadvantages. It is important that characters are chosen strategically, according to the role each player will play in the game.

MOBA - Characters

Image taken from the game Dota 2 containing the 115 selectable heroes, each with specific characteristics.

Then the teams (usually composed of 5 members) are placed in a virtual arena in which the objective is to destroy the enemy base. For this, players need to strategically advance on the map, balancing attack and defense. Thus, throughout the game, players evolve their characters as they kill enemy or neutral units (which do not belong to any team, usually found in the jungles), buy items and destroy enemy structures.

The matches end when one of the teams advances enough and manages to destroy the main enemy structure, located in the base.

Examples of MOBA Games

The main current MOBA are:

  • Endowment 2
  • League of Legends
  • Heroes of the Storms
  • Smile
  • Heroes of Newerth
  • Arena of Valor
  • Rise of Immortals

See also the meaning of MMO.

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