The Biggest Online Games in Maldives

As of early 2025, the Maldives gaming scene has flourished with a diverse range of online games capturing the attention of players across the island nation. Several titles stand out as the most popular among Maldivian gamers, reflecting both global trends and local preferences.

Mobile Gaming Dominance

Mobile gaming leads the charge in the Maldives’ online gaming landscape. Some of the most popular mobile games in the Maldives include:

PUBG MOBILE by Tencent Mobile International Limited has secured a top spot, consistently ranking as one of the most popular mobile games in the country. This battle royale game has captured the attention of many Maldivian players, reflecting the global trend towards competitive mobile gaming.

Subway Surfers by Sybo Games ApS follows closely, showcasing the enduring appeal of endless runner games among Maldivian players. With its simple yet addictive gameplay, it remains a favorite casual game in the Maldives.

Roblox has also found significant success in the Maldivian market, allowing users to play and create games, appealing to the creative side of Maldivian gamers.

PC and Console Gaming

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

FIFA series (now EA SPORTS FC) remains a top choice for football fans, reflecting the Maldives’ passion for the sport. Both the mobile and console versions of the game are popular among Maldivian gamers.

Fortnite has captured the attention of many Maldivian gamers across multiple platforms, joining the global battle royale phenomenon. Its free-to-play nature and regular updates have contributed to its sustained popularity.

Esports and Competitive Gaming

Esports has gained significant traction in the Maldives, with regular tournaments and events being organized. Ooredoo Maldives has recently launched an Inter-Office Esports Tournament featuring popular games such as FC24, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), and PUBG Mobile. This initiative aims to promote digital engagement and build a sense of community through esports.

The tournament offers substantial prize pools, with FC24 and PUBG Mobile tournaments each offering MVR 20,000, and the MLBB tournament offering MVR 10,000. This highlights the growing importance of competitive gaming in the Maldivian entertainment landscape.

Local Game Development

The Maldives’ game development industry is showing promise, with initiatives aimed at creating games that reflect local culture and traditions. A notable example is “Thakuru Wars,” an online multiplayer battle arena mobile game based on traditional Maldivian characters and settings. Developed locally, the game features humorous weapons and special powers for each character, focusing on players winning battles within a time limit. Winners are awarded with ‘Ruh’ (Maldivian word for Palm Trees) and added to a national leaderboard.

Future Trends

As the Maldives continues to develop its digital infrastructure and embrace online entertainment, the gaming industry is poised for further growth. 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 the Indian Ocean region.

The diversity of popular games in the Maldives, ranging from mobile casual games to competitive esports titles and locally developed games, reflects a maturing and evolving gaming market. With growing interest from both players and potential developers, the Maldives’ gaming industry is expected to develop significantly in the coming years, potentially making its mark on the global gaming stage.