The Biggest Online Games in South Africa

As of early 2025, South Africa’s gaming scene showcases a diverse range of popular online games across various platforms. Several titles stand out as the most popular among South African gamers, reflecting both global trends and local preferences.

Mobile Gaming Dominance

Mobile gaming leads the charge in South Africa’s online gaming landscape. According to recent data, some of the most popular mobile games in South Africa include:

Block Blast! by Hungry Studio has secured the top spot, consistently ranking as the most popular mobile game in the country. This puzzle game offers quick, engaging gameplay that fits well with the fast-paced lifestyle of many South African players.

Chess – Play and Learn follows closely, securing a top spot in the rankings. This game has captured the attention of many South African players, highlighting a growing interest in strategic board games.

Other notable titles such as Candy Crush Saga, Roblox, and Royal Match continue to attract a significant player base in South Africa, offering a variety of experiences from puzzle-solving to creative platforms and match-3 games.

Sports and Action Games

EA SPORTS FC™ Mobile Soccer (formerly FIFA Mobile) remains a top choice for football fans, reflecting South Africa’s passion for the sport. The game’s popularity is evident from its high ranking in both download and revenue charts.

Call of Duty: Mobile Season 11 has also found significant success in the South African market, offering intense action that has captured the attention of many players.

PC and Console Gaming

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

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) stands out as the highest-earning esports game in South Africa, with players winning over $1 million in prize money. Its popularity is evident from its significant contribution to the country’s total esports earnings.

Minecraft: Play with Friends remains popular among South African gamers, appealing to those who enjoy creative and sandbox-style games.

Esports and Competitive Gaming

Esports has gained significant traction in South Africa, with regular tournaments and events being organized. Games like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, Dota 2, and FIFA are at the forefront of the competitive gaming scene. South African players have begun to make their mark in international tournaments, with the country’s total esports earnings reaching over $2.2 million across 620 tournaments.

The highest-earning player from South Africa, Ioannis “JT” Theodosiou, has won over $234,000 in prize money, showcasing the potential for professional gaming in the country.

Future Trends

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

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

Mobile esports could disrupt the traditional hierarchy, with games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang leading the charge in accessibility and player engagement.

The diversity of popular games in South Africa, ranging from mobile casual games to competitive esports titles and innovative PC and console experiences, reflects a maturing and evolving gaming market. With growing interest from both players and developers, South Africa’s gaming industry is expected to maintain its significant position in the African gaming landscape.