The Biggest Online Games in Mali

a close up of a video game controller

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

Mobile Gaming Dominance

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

PUBG MOBILE 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 Malian players, reflecting the global trend towards competitive mobile gaming.

Free Fire x NARUTO SHIPPUDEN has garnered a massive following, offering a battle royale experience with a popular anime collaboration. Its success highlights the Malian gaming community’s appetite for action-packed mobile games.

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

Other notable titles such as Candy Crush Saga and Subway Surfers continue to attract a significant player base in Mali, 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 Mali:

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

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

Minecraft continues to be popular among Malian gamers, appealing to those who enjoy creative and sandbox-style games.

Esports and Competitive Gaming

Esports has gained significant traction in Mali, with regular tournaments and events being organized. Games like PUBG MOBILE, Free Fire, and FIFA are at the forefront of the competitive gaming scene. Malian players have begun to make their mark in international tournaments, with the country’s esports earnings growing steadily.

Mali is an active member of the International Esports Federation, participating in the World Esports Championship. This involvement has further boosted the popularity of competitive gaming in the country.

Local Game Development

Mali’s game development industry is showing promise, with initiatives aimed at developing local talent and creating games for the international market. While still nascent, this sector could significantly influence the types of games popular among Malian players in the future.

One notable example is the development of games that incorporate African themes and storylines. This trend not only resonates with local players but also has the potential to attract international interest, showcasing Mali’s rich cultural heritage through interactive media.

As Mali continues to develop its digital infrastructure and embrace online entertainment, several trends are shaping the future of gaming in the country:

The growth of mobile gaming is expected to continue, driven by increasing smartphone penetration and improved internet connectivity. This trend aligns with the broader African gaming market, which is projected to surpass $1 billion in revenue by 2024.

Virtual Reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) games are slowly gaining traction, making gaming more immersive. The Malian gaming community is showing increased interest in these new technologies.

Educational gaming is also on the rise, with developers creating games that not only entertain but also educate players on various subjects, including local history and culture.

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