Multiplayer online battle arena
Overview
Multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) is a subgenre of strategy video games that originated with the custom map Defense of the Ancients (DotA) for the game Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos. MOBAs are typically team-based games where players control a single character and work together to destroy the opposing team's main structure.
Gameplay
MOBA games are characterized by their unique gameplay mechanics. Each player controls a single character, known as a hero or champion, who has a set of unique abilities. The objective of the game is to destroy the enemy team's main structure, often referred to as the "Ancient" or "Nexus". This is achieved by working together with your team, strategically using your hero's abilities, and managing resources such as gold and experience points.
History
The origins of the MOBA genre can be traced back to the custom map Defense of the Ancients (DotA) for the game Warcraft III: Reign of Chaos. DotA was created by a player using the pseudonym "Eul", and was later developed and maintained by several other contributors, most notably "IceFrog". The success of DotA led to the creation of standalone games such as League of Legends and Dota 2, which have since become some of the most popular and profitable games in the world.
Strategy and Tactics
Strategy and tactics play a crucial role in MOBA games. Players must work together as a team, coordinating their actions and making strategic decisions to gain an advantage over the enemy team. This can involve choosing the right heroes, deciding which lanes to push, when to engage the enemy, and how to allocate resources.
Esports
Due to their competitive nature, MOBA games have become a popular genre in esports. Tournaments for games like League of Legends and Dota 2 regularly attract millions of viewers and offer multi-million dollar prize pools. The League of Legends World Championship and The International are among the biggest esports events in the world.
Impact and Influence
The MOBA genre has had a significant impact on the video game industry. The success of games like League of Legends and Dota 2 has led to the creation of numerous other MOBA games, and has influenced the design of games in other genres. Furthermore, the popularity of MOBA games in esports has contributed to the growth and mainstream acceptance of competitive gaming.