The Biggest Online Games in Ethiopia

Ethiopia’s gaming scene has been growing steadily, with a diverse range of online games capturing the attention of players across the country. As of early 2025, several titles stand out as the most popular among Ethiopian gamers.

Mobile Gaming Dominance

Mobile gaming leads the charge in Ethiopia’s online gaming landscape. With smartphones becoming increasingly accessible, mobile games are reaching a large portion of the population. Some of the most popular mobile games in Ethiopia include:

PUBG Mobile has garnered a massive following, with Ethiopian players participating in competitive scenes. This battle royale game has captured the attention of many players, reflecting the global trend towards mobile gaming.

Free Fire is another battle royale title that has found success in the Ethiopian market, offering quick and engaging gameplay that fits well with the fast-paced lifestyle of many Ethiopian players.

Roblox has seen significant growth in Ethiopia, allowing users to play and create games, appealing to the creative side of Ethiopian gamers.

Other notable titles such as Candy Crush Saga and Subway Surfers continue to attract a significant player base in Ethiopia, offering casual gaming experiences that are easy to pick up and play.

PC and Console Gaming

While mobile gaming dominates, PC and console games also have a dedicated following in Ethiopia:

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) has a growing esports scene in Ethiopia, with local players participating in tournaments. It’s becoming one of the highest awarding esports titles for Ethiopian players.

FIFA series (now EA SPORTS FC) remains a top choice for football fans, reflecting Ethiopia’s passion for the sport.

Fortnite has captured the attention of many Ethiopian gamers across multiple platforms, joining the global battle royale phenomenon.

Minecraft remains popular among Ethiopian gamers, appealing to those who enjoy creative and sandbox-style games.

Esports and Competitive Gaming

Esports has gained traction in Ethiopia, with regular tournaments and events being organized. Games like CS:GO, PUBG Mobile, and League of Legends are at the forefront of the competitive gaming scene. Ethiopian players have begun to make their mark in international tournaments, with the country’s esports earnings growing steadily.

Local Game Development

Ethiopia’s game development industry is showing promise, with companies creating games that cater to both domestic and international markets. Qene Games, a notable Ethiopian game studio, has developed titles like Kukulu and Gebeta, which incorporate African culture and traditions into their gameplay.

Kukulu, a 3D runner game similar to Subway Surfers but set in an African fairy-tale land, has gained international recognition. Gebeta, a modern take on the traditional African and South Asian game of mancala, showcases the potential for locally developed games to reach a global audience.

Gaming Market Outlook

The gaming industry in Ethiopia has seen remarkable growth, with mobile games leading the charge. As of 2022, Ethiopia’s gaming market was estimated to generate around $35 million in annual revenue. This figure is expected to grow significantly in the coming years, driven by factors such as increasing smartphone penetration, a young demographic eager for gaming, and the rise of online gaming platforms and esports.

As Ethiopia continues to develop its digital infrastructure and embrace online entertainment, the gaming industry is poised for further expansion. The country’s unique position and culture create a gaming scene that, while influenced by global trends, maintains its own distinct flavor, contributing to a thriving and diverse gaming ecosystem in East Africa.