Top 10 Trending Pinoy Online Games Every Filipino Gamer Should Try in 2024
As a gaming enthusiast who has spent over a decade exploring the vibrant landscape of online entertainment in the Philippines, I’ve noticed something fascinating about how our local gaming scene has evolved. It reminds me of the way tennis organizes its tournaments—specifically, the distinction between the WTA Tour and WTA 125 events. While the WTA Tour features top-tier global competitions, WTA 125 events serve as a crucial stepping stone, offering emerging talents a platform to shine before hitting the big leagues. Similarly, the Pinoy online gaming ecosystem has its own hierarchy: globally acclaimed titles sit alongside homegrown gems that, while perhaps less flashy, deliver incredible depth and cultural resonance. In this article, I’ll walk you through the top 10 trending Pinoy online games every Filipino gamer should try in 2024, blending personal anecdotes, industry insights, and a touch of that signature Filipino gaming spirit.
Let’s kick things off with Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, a game that needs no introduction in the Philippines. With over 80 million registered users locally—yes, you read that right—it’s practically a national pastime. I still remember joining my first local tournament back in 2022; the energy was electric, and the camaraderie among players felt like a family reunion. What sets Mobile Legends apart, in my opinion, is how it balances competitive rigor with accessibility. Much like how WTA 125 events provide a structured yet approachable arena for rising tennis stars, Mobile Legends offers Filipino gamers a gateway into esports without overwhelming them. The game’s developer, Moonton, has also been smart about integrating local themes, such as the recent “Barong” skin collection inspired by traditional Filipino attire, which sold over 500,000 units in its first week. It’s these thoughtful touches that keep players like me coming back.
Another title that’s been dominating conversations in our gaming circles is Garena’s Call of Duty: Mobile. Now, I’ll admit I’m biased toward first-person shooters, but COD Mobile’s rise in the Philippines is nothing short of meteoric. Last quarter alone, it garnered 12 million monthly active users here, and its ranked matches have become a staple for competitive players. Drawing a parallel to the WTA analogy, if Mobile Legends is the WTA 125—nurturing local talent—then COD Mobile feels like the main WTA Tour, where international standards meet Pinoy tenacity. I’ve lost count of how many late-night sessions I’ve spent grinding with my squad, strategizing over voice chat while munching on pancit canton. The game’s seasonal updates, like the “Luzon Warfare” event that featured maps inspired by Philippine landscapes, show how developers are paying attention to our market. It’s not just about copying global trends; it’s about adapting them to our identity.
Now, let’s talk about a personal favorite: RAN Online 2. This MMORPG might not have the polish of AAA titles, but it has soul. Originally launched in the early 2000s, its resurgence in 2023 caught many by surprise, including me. I’ve been playing since the beta, and what draws me in is the community—it’s like a digital version of your local barangay, where everyone knows each other and rallies during in-game events. With an estimated 2 million active players in the Philippines, RAN Online 2 operates much like a WTA 125 event in the gaming world: it’s a testing ground for innovative features, such as the recently added “Bayanihan” quest system that encourages cooperative play. The developers even hosted a virtual fiesta last December, complete with in-game lechon and parol decorations, which boosted player engagement by 40% according to their internal data. It’s this blend of nostalgia and innovation that makes it a must-try.
Shifting gears to the battle royale genre, PUBG Mobile continues to hold its ground, especially with the introduction of the “Philippine Server” in late 2023. As someone who’s played since its global launch, I can attest to the smoother gameplay and reduced latency—a game-changer for competitive matches. The server launch coincided with a local esports league that attracted over 50,000 participants, mirroring the way WTA 125 events scaffold talent toward the main tour. What I love most, though, is how PUBG Mobile has become a social hub; I’ve made friends from Davao to Ilocos Norte through squad matches, and we often joke that it’s our “online tambayan.” The game’s customization options, like Filipino-themed outfits and weapon skins, have also been a hit, with sales topping $1 million in the first month post-launch. It’s proof that when games speak our language, literally and figuratively, they thrive.
On the lighter side, there’s Crossfire: Legends, a game that’s been quietly building a loyal following. I stumbled upon it during a streamer’s recommendation, and its fast-paced matches hooked me instantly. While it may not have the budget of its counterparts, it excels in community-driven events. For instance, the “Pinoy Pride” tournament series last year drew 15,000 teams, and the finals were broadcast on local TV—a first for a game of its scale. This reminds me of how WTA 125 events gain traction through grassroots support, eventually feeding into larger circuits. From a technical standpoint, Crossfire: Legends runs well on mid-range phones, which is crucial in a country where not everyone can afford high-end devices. I’ve recommended it to friends who are new to gaming, and they’ve all praised its intuitive controls and the sheer fun of its 5v5 modes.
Another standout is League of Legends: Wild Rift, which has been making waves in the Philippine esports scene. As a longtime PC player, I was skeptical about the mobile version at first, but Riot Games nailed the transition. The Philippine server, launched in 2022, now boasts over 5 million registered users, and its ranked system has become a benchmark for skill. I see it as the WTA Tour equivalent in mobile MOBAs—polished, professional, and fiercely competitive. What sets it apart, in my view, is the depth of strategy; I’ve spent hours analyzing champion builds with my team, and the recent addition of Filipino voiceovers made it feel even more immersive. The local esports league, with its $100,000 prize pool, has also produced stars like “PinoyMVP,” whose journey from amateur to pro mirrors the ascent of athletes in WTA 125 events. It’s inspiring to watch, and even more fun to play.
For those who prefer something more casual, I’d point to Among Us, which saw a resurgence in the Philippines thanks to local streamers. I’ll never forget the chaos of my first game with a full Pinoy lobby—the accusations flew faster than jeepneys on EDSA, and the imposter won by pretending to be “nagluluto ng sinigang.” While it’s not a new game, its social deduction mechanics have found a perfect home in our culture of storytelling and humor. According to app analytics, Among Us racked up 3 million downloads in the Philippines in 2023, with play sessions averaging 45 minutes. It’s the kind of game that bridges generations; I’ve played with my younger cousins and titas alike, and it always ends in laughter. In the context of the WTA analogy, Among Us is like the exhibition matches—less about hardcore competition, more about building connections.
Let’s not forget Axie Infinity, which took the Philippines by storm during the pandemic. As an early adopter, I witnessed firsthand how it blended gaming with earning potential, though the market has since cooled. Still, with over 1.5 million active Filipino players in 2024, it remains a cultural phenomenon. The game’s play-to-earn model, while controversial, opened doors for many, much like how WTA 125 events offer financial incentives for up-and-coming players. I’ve met scholars from rural areas who used their earnings to support their families, and that social impact is undeniable. Recent updates, like the “Land Gameplay” expansion, have reinvigorated interest, and I’m cautiously optimistic about its future. It’s a reminder that games can be more than entertainment—they can be lifelines.
Wrapping up the list, I have to mention Genshin Impact, which continues to captivate Filipino gamers with its stunning open world. I’ve poured hundreds of hours into exploring Teyvat, and the Filipino community around it is incredibly creative—from fan art to cosplay events. HoYoverse’s inclusion of Filipino-inspired elements in the Sumeru region, like tribal music and architecture, was a subtle but appreciated nod. With 4 million downloads in the Philippines and counting, it’s a testament to how global hits can resonate locally. Similarly, Valorant rounds out the top 10, thanks to its tactical depth and the rise of Pinoy pros like “JJ” from Team Secret. I’ve followed their journey from local tournaments to international stages, and it’s a classic example of how, like in tennis, dedication at the “125 level” can lead to glory on the main tour.
In conclusion, the Pinoy online gaming landscape in 2024 is a dynamic mix of global heavyweights and local champions, each offering unique experiences that reflect our culture and passions. Just as the WTA 125 events serve as a vital pipeline for tennis talent, these games provide platforms for Filipino gamers to learn, compete, and connect. Whether you’re a casual player or an aspiring pro, there’s never been a better time to dive in. So grab your phone or PC, gather your friends, and experience the joy of gaming, Pinoy-style. After all, as I’ve learned over the years, it’s not just about winning—it’s about the stories we create along the way.
