In the dynamic realm of mobile gaming, where innovation meets entertainment, certain titles rise to prominence, captivating millions globally and generating substantial revenue. The year 2024 has been no exception, showcasing a diverse array of games that not only entertained but also set new benchmarks in the industry. This article aims to explore the top 20 best-selling mobile games of 2024, delving into their gameplay, development, and the secret sauce behind their success.
Rank | Game | Genre | Developer | Publisher | Platform | Release Date | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Honor of Kings | MOBA | TiMi Studio Group | Level Infinite, Garena | Android, iOS, iPadOS, Nintendo Switch | October 12, 2016 | |
2 | Candy Crush Saga | Puzzle | King | King | App Store, Google Play, Windows, Phone Store, Windows, macOS, Linux | April 12, 2012 | |
3 | Monster Strike | Physics | Mixi | Mixi | Android, iOS | August 8, 2013 | |
4 | PUBG Mobile | Battle royale | Lightspeed & Quantum, PUBG Corporation | Tencent Games, KRAFTON, Level Infinite, VNG Game Publishing | Android, iOS | February 9, 2018 | |
5 | Clash of Clans | Strategy | Supercell | Supercell | iOS, iPadOS, Android | August 2, 2012 | |
6 | Pokémon GO | Augmented reality | Niantic | Niantic / Nintendo | iOS, Android | July 6, 2016 | |
7 | Puzzle & Dragons | Puzzle, role-playing | GungHo Online Entertainment | GungHo Online Entertainment | iOS, iPadOS, Android, Kindle Fire | February 20, 2012 | |
8 | Fate/Grand Order | Role-playing, visual novel | Delightworks, Lasengle | Aniplex, Sega | Android, iOS, iPadOS, Arcade | July 30, 2015 | |
9 | Fantasy Westward Journey | MMORPG | NetEase | NetEase | IOS, Android | 2015 | |
10 | Roblox | GCS / MMO | Roblox Corporation | Roblox Corporation | IOS, Android Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, Xbox One, Meta Quest 2, Meta Quest Pro, PlayStation 4 | December 11, 2012 | |
11 | Gardenscapes | Puzzle | Playrix | Playrix | Android, iOS, iPadOS, Facebook Platform | July 5, 2016 | |
12 | Lineage M | MMORPG | NCSoft | NCSoft | Mac OS X | June 21, 2017 | |
13 | Garena Free Fire | Battle royale | Garena | Garena | Android, iOS, iPadOS | December 8, 2017 | |
14 | Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle | Puzzle | Bandai Namco Entertainment | Bandai Namco Entertainment | Android, iOS, iPadOS | anuary 30, 2015 | |
15 | Clash Royale | Real-time strategy | Supercell | Supercell | iOS, iPadOS, Android | March 2, 2016 | |
16 | Disney Tsum Tsum | Puzzle | Line | Line | iOS, iPadOS, Android | January 29, 2014 | |
17 | Hearthstone | Digital collectible card game | Blizzard Entertainment | Blizzard Entertainment | Windows, macOS, iOS, Android | April 16, 2014 | |
18 | Summoners War | Turn-based Strategy, MMO | Com2uS | Com2uS | Android, iOS, iPadOS | June 12, 2014 | |
19 | Mobile Legends: Bang Bang | Multiplayer online battle arena | Moonton | Moonton | Android, iOS | 14 July 2016 | |
20 | Fire Emblem Heroes | Single-player | Intelligent Systems | Nintendo | Android, iOS | February 2, 2017 |
The Top of The Best Mobile Games
1. Honor of Kings
- Revenue: Over $18 billion
- Release: November 2015
- Publisher: Tencent Games
Honor of Kings, also known as Arena of Valor in the international market, is a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed by TiMi Studios and published by Tencent Games. The game’s premise is simple yet engaging: players are divided into two opposing teams, each aiming to destroy the enemy’s base while defending their own. Each player controls a character, known as a “hero,” with unique abilities and roles. The heroes are classified into six roles: Tank, Assassin, Mage, Support, Marksman, and Warrior, each contributing to the team’s strategy in different ways.
Honor of Kings stands out due to its deep strategic gameplay, vast selection of heroes, and regular updates that keep the game fresh and engaging. The in-app purchases include cosmetic items, heroes, and other enhancements that do not disrupt the game’s balance, ensuring a fair play environment. The game’s success can be attributed to its high-quality graphics, responsive controls, and the thriving community it has built over the years. As a MOBA enthusiast, the tactical depth and competitive nature of Honor of Kings make it a compelling experience that keeps players coming back for more.
2. Candy Crush Saga
- Revenue: Over $12 billion
- Release: November 2012
- Publisher: King
Candy Crush Saga is a match-three puzzle game that has become synonymous with mobile gaming addiction. The game challenges players to match colorful candies to clear levels with various objectives and obstacles.
Candy Crush Saga’s appeal lies in its simple yet addictive gameplay, colorful visuals, and thousands of levels that offer an endless stream of challenges. In-app purchases include boosters and extra moves to help players overcome the game’s trickier levels. As someone who has navigated through countless levels, the game’s ability to balance challenge with satisfaction makes it a timeless classic in the puzzle game genre.
3. Monster Strike
- Revenue: Over $11 billion
- Release: October 2013
- Publisher: Mixi
Monster Strike is a unique blend of physics-based puzzle and role-playing game (RPG) elements, making it an addictive mobile game. Players collect and raise monsters to battle in cooperative multiplayer dungeons. The gameplay involves slinging your monsters across the battlefield to collide with enemies, akin to a game of marbles, which triggers their special abilities and attacks.
What sets Monster Strike apart is its innovative gameplay mechanics, which require both strategic planning and precise timing. The game offers a vast roster of monsters to collect, each with distinct abilities, making team composition a crucial aspect of the gameplay. In-app purchases in Monster Strike include orbs that can be used to summon new monsters and replenish stamina, ensuring players can continue their adventures without lengthy waits. As someone who has delved deep into the game, the satisfaction of executing the perfect shot and the joy of collecting and evolving monsters make Monster Strike an endlessly entertaining mobile game.
4. Game for Peace (PUBG Mobile)
- Revenue: Over $11 billion
- Release: May 2019
- Publisher: Tencent Games
Game for Peace, known as PUBG Mobile outside of China, is a battle royale game where 100 players parachute onto an island and fight to be the last one standing. The game offers a variety of weapons and vehicles, allowing for diverse strategies and playstyles.
The key to success in Game for Peace lies in strategic thinking, quick reflexes, and effective team coordination. In-app purchases offer cosmetic items, enhancing the personalization and aesthetic appeal of the gameplay. Having played extensively, the thrill of outsmarting and outlasting opponents in high-stakes matches and the satisfaction of earning that coveted “Chicken Dinner” are what make Game for Peace a standout title in the mobile gaming arena.
5. Clash of Clans
- Revenue: Over $10 billion
- Release: August 2012
- Publisher: Supercell
Clash of Clans is a strategy game that combines base-building with competitive and cooperative multiplayer gameplay. Players build and upgrade their base, train troops, and attack other players’ bases to earn resources while defending their own base from enemy attacks. The game also features clan wars, where players can join together to take on other clans for rewards and bragging rights.
The key to success in Clash of Clans lies in effective resource management, strategic base layout planning, and well-timed attacks. In-app purchases allow players to accelerate their base development and troop training, offering a quicker path to power, though strategic gameplay can still overcome resource disparities. As an avid player, the ongoing challenge of refining strategies and engaging in clan wars keeps the game exciting and engaging, making it a staple in the mobile gaming world.
6. Pokémon GO
- Revenue: Over $9 billion
- Release: July 2016
- Publisher: Niantic
Pokémon GO is an augmented reality (AR) mobile game that revolutionized mobile gaming by blending the virtual world with the real world. Players explore their surroundings to catch Pokémon, battle at Gyms, and participate in raids. The game encourages physical activity, making it a unique blend of gaming and real-world exploration.
What sets Pokémon GO apart is its innovative use of AR technology and its ability to bring the beloved Pokémon universe into the real world. In-app purchases include PokéCoins, which can be used to buy items like Poké Balls, Incubators, and Raid Passes. As a dedicated player, the excitement of catching rare Pokémon in new places and the sense of community during large-scale raid events are what make Pokémon GO a game that continues to engage and surprise.
7. Puzzle & Dragons
- Revenue: Over $8 billion
- Release: February 2012
- Publisher: GungHo Online Entertainment
Puzzle & Dragons combines match-three puzzle gameplay with traditional RPG elements, offering a unique and engaging experience. Players navigate dungeons, battling enemies by matching three or more orbs of the same color to attack. The game features a wide variety of monsters that players can collect, evolve, and incorporate into their teams to take on increasingly challenging dungeons.
The strategic depth of Puzzle & Dragons lies in its team-building and orb-matching mechanics, where players must consider elemental strengths and weaknesses, combo potential, and team synergies. In-app purchases include magic stones, which can be used for monster summons and expanding inventory space. Having spent countless hours strategizing dungeon runs and perfecting team compositions, I can attest to the game’s addictive nature and the rewarding feeling of completing difficult challenges.
8. Fate/Grand Order
- Revenue: Over $7 billion
- Release: July 2015
- Publisher: Aniplex
Fate/Grand Order is a narrative-driven mobile RPG set in the expansive Fate universe. Players assume the role of “Masters,” summoning and commanding historical, literary, and mythical figures known as “Servants” to battle through story-driven quests and events. The game is renowned for its deep storylines, character development, and complex gameplay mechanics.
Gameplay involves turn-based battles where strategy, Servant composition, and skill use are key to victory. In-app purchases in Fate/Grand Order primarily focus on “Saint Quartz,” used for summoning new Servants and replenishing action points. As a player, the game’s compelling narratives and the thrill of summoning beloved Servants make Fate/Grand Order an immersive and rewarding experience, with a strong community of fans adding to its appeal.
9. Fantasy Westward Journey
- Revenue: Over $5.4 billion
- Release: March 2015
- Publisher: NetEase
Fantasy Westward Journey is an MMORPG inspired by the classic Chinese novel “Journey to the West.” The game boasts a vibrant community and a rich, immersive world that draws players into its captivating narrative and diverse gameplay features, including quests, dungeons, and PvP battles.
The game’s charm lies in its artistic style, deeply rooted in traditional Chinese aesthetics, and its engaging gameplay that combines classic MMORPG elements with unique cultural content. In-app purchases provide various enhancements, cosmetic items, and convenience features that enrich the gaming experience. Having explored the vast, mythical lands and engaged in its community-driven adventures, Fantasy Westward Journey offers a unique blend of cultural richness and MMORPG gameplay that continues to enchant players.
10. Roblox
- Revenue: Over $5 billion
- Release: September 2006
- Publisher: Roblox Corporation
Roblox is more than just a game; it’s a vast online platform that allows users to create and share their own games and experiences using Roblox Studio. With its user-generated content, the platform hosts a wide variety of games across genres, from simulations and adventure games to obstacle courses and role-playing games.
What makes Roblox unique is its emphasis on creativity and community. Players can not only enjoy a multitude of games but also express themselves by creating their own games and experiences. In-app purchases involve Robux, which can be used to acquire in-game items, accessories for avatars, or even gain access to certain games. As someone who has both played and created games on Roblox, the platform’s ability to foster creativity and bring people together is truly remarkable, offering endless entertainment and learning opportunities.
11. Gardenscapes
- Revenue: Over $5 billion
- Release: August 2016
- Publisher: Playrix
Gardenscapes is a match-3 puzzle game combined with a garden-building simulation. Players complete match-3 levels to earn stars, which are then used to complete tasks and restore various parts of a grand garden to its former glory.
The game’s charm lies in its engaging storyline, quirky characters, and the satisfaction of gradually transforming a neglected garden into a beautiful retreat. In-app purchases offer boosters, unlimited lives for a certain period, and in-game currency to help players advance through the game more smoothly. As a devoted player, the rewarding progression system and the serene joy of gardening make Gardenscapes an addictive and relaxing experience.
12. Lineage M
- Revenue: Over $5 billion
- Release: June 2017
- Publisher: NCSOFT
Lineage M is a mobile adaptation of Lineage, one of the most popular MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games) in gaming history. The game retains the essence of its PC predecessor, offering an expansive fantasy world, a variety of classes, and engaging PvP (Player vs Player) and PvE (Player vs Environment) content.
The depth of Lineage M’s gameplay, from character customization and development to joining clans and participating in large-scale battles, provides a comprehensive MMORPG experience on mobile. In-app purchases can enhance the gameplay experience, offering items, buffs, and cosmetics to customize characters. As a fan of the original Lineage, diving into Lineage M feels like a nostalgic return to a beloved world, now accessible anytime and anywhere.
13. Garena Free Fire
- Revenue: Over $4 billion
- Release: December 2017
- Publisher: Garena
Garena Free Fire is a battle royale game that stands out for its fast-paced, 10-minute games where 50 players battle it out on an island to be the last one standing. The game is highly accessible, optimized for a wide range of mobile devices, and offers multiple game modes.
Free Fire’s success can be attributed to its quick match times, diverse character roster with unique abilities, and community-driven events. In-app purchases include diamonds, which players can use to acquire characters, cosmetics, and the game’s Elite Pass. Having engaged in countless battles, the adrenaline rush of close-quarter combats and the strategic depth of character selection are what make Garena Free Fire an exhilarating experience.
14. Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle
- Revenue: Over $3,7 billion
- Release: July 2015
- Publisher: Bandai Namco Entertainment
Dragon Ball Z: Dokkan Battle is a puzzle and card-based action game set in the Dragon Ball universe. Players collect characters from the series, assemble teams, and engage in battles that combine match-3 puzzles with strategic team-building elements.
The game stands out for its faithful representation of the Dragon Ball Z storylines, characters, and special moves, all while introducing an engaging gameplay mechanic that blends puzzles with combat. In-app purchases include Dragon Stones, which can be used for summoning new characters and refilling stamina. As a longtime fan of Dragon Ball Z, Dokkan Battle offers a unique and entertaining way to engage with the series, providing hours of content that faithfully captures the spirit and excitement of the anime.
15. Clash Royale
- Revenue: Over $3 billion
- Release: March 2016
- Publisher: Supercell
Clash Royale combines elements of collectible card games, tower defense, and multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA). Players collect and upgrade cards featuring Clash of Clans troops, spells, and defenses, and use them in battles to knock down the enemy’s towers.
The strategic depth of Clash Royale comes from knowing when and where to deploy your cards, managing your elixir efficiently, and countering your opponent’s moves. In-app purchases allow players to acquire chests containing cards and resources more quickly. The game’s constant balancing updates and the thrill of climbing the ranks in competitive leagues make Clash Royale a deeply strategic and rewarding game to master.
16. Disney Tsum Tsum
- Revenue: Over $2,5 billion
- Release: January 2014
- Publisher: LINE Corporation
Disney Tsum Tsum is an engaging and adorable puzzle game that features the popular Disney Tsum Tsum plush toys. These toys are based on Disney characters and are designed in a unique, round shape, making them highly collectible. In the game, players connect and pop as many Tsum Tsums as they can within a limited time frame to earn points, with each character having its own special ability to help clear more Tsum Tsums and rack up higher scores.
The gameplay is straightforward yet addictive, as players aim to create the longest chains of Tsum Tsums to trigger explosive combos and special abilities. The game’s charm lies in its cute character designs, the satisfying pop of clearing Tsum Tsums, and the strategic element of choosing the right Tsum Tsums for each round to maximize scores. In-app purchases include Rubies, which can be used to buy new Tsum Tsum characters, extend playtime, and obtain bonus items that enhance the gameplay experience.
17. Hearthstone
- Revenue: Over $1.6 billion
- Release: April 2014
- Publisher: Blizzard Entertainment
Hearthstone is a digital collectible card game that has become a cornerstone of the genre on mobile devices. Set in the Warcraft universe, players build decks from a vast collection of cards to battle others in strategic matches that require foresight, cunning, and a bit of luck.
Hearthstone’s appeal lies in its deep strategic gameplay, frequent updates, and expansions that introduce new cards and mechanics. In-app purchases include card packs, expansions, and cosmetic items like hero portraits and card backs. As a seasoned player, the constant evolution of the meta, the thrill of building innovative decks, and the cerebral challenge of outsmarting opponents make Hearthstone an endlessly engaging and competitive card game.
18. Summoners War
- Revenue: Over $1.35 billion
- Release: June 2014
- Publisher: Com2uS
Summoners War is a captivating mobile turn-based strategy MMO game that immerses players in a fantastical world filled with monsters to collect, evolve, and battle. Set in the fictional world of Sky Arena, players summon monsters to fight in turn-based battles, employing strategic formations and combinations to overcome adversaries.
The core allure of Summoners War lies in its extensive monster collection, deep rune system, and strategic gameplay that demands thoughtful team composition and tactical execution. In-app purchases include crystals and packs that offer summoning scrolls and resources, aiding players in enhancing their monster rosters. Having personally delved into the intricate mechanics and thrilling battles, the game’s rich strategic depth and community-driven events make Summoners War an endlessly engaging experience for strategy enthusiasts.
19. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
- Revenue: Over $1 billion
- Release: July 2016
- Publisher: Moonton
Description: Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is a fiercely competitive MOBA game that has captured the hearts of millions worldwide. It features fast-paced, 5v5 battles on a classic three-lane map, complete with jungles, towers, and bosses. Players choose from a diverse roster of heroes, each with unique skills, roles, and playstyles, to form the ultimate team.
What distinguishes Mobile Legends is its accessibility, balanced competitive gameplay, and short match durations, making it ideal for mobile gaming. In-app purchases include diamonds for buying heroes, skins, and other cosmetic items, enhancing the visual appeal and personalization of the experience. As an avid player, the thrill of teamwork, strategic battles, and the satisfaction of climbing the ranked ladder are what make Mobile Legends an addictive and rewarding MOBA game on mobile.
20. Fire Emblem Heroes
- Revenue: Over $1 billion
- Release: February 2017
- Publisher: Nintendo
Fire Emblem Heroes brings the beloved Fire Emblem series to mobile devices, offering a streamlined strategy RPG experience. Players embark on an epic journey across multiple worlds, summoning heroes from the Fire Emblem universe to battle in turn-based, tactical combat.
The game simplifies the classic Fire Emblem formula for mobile, while retaining its strategic depth and character-driven storytelling. In-app purchases include Orbs, used for summoning heroes and expanding barracks. As a player who appreciates both strategy and narrative depth, Fire Emblem Heroes delivers an engaging mobile adaptation of the series, with the thrill of summoning favorite characters and the satisfaction of mastering its tactical battles.
The Evolution of Mobile Gaming
The mobile gaming industry has come a long way since its inception. Initially viewed as a platform for simple, casual games, it has evolved into a diverse ecosystem hosting a wide range of genres, from complex strategy games and immersive RPGs to competitive MOBAs and engaging puzzle games. This evolution is driven by advancements in mobile technology, allowing for more sophisticated game development, and a growing global player base seeking entertainment on the go.
The Future of Mobile Gaming
Looking ahead, the future of mobile gaming seems boundless. With emerging technologies like augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and cloud gaming, mobile games are set to become even more immersive and accessible. Additionally, the rise of esports and competitive gaming on mobile platforms is opening new avenues for professional gaming and community building.
Conclusion
The mobile gaming industry continues to thrive, fueled by a combination of technological advancements, creative game development, and a global community of passionate players. The top 20 best-selling mobile games of 2024 are just the tip of the iceberg, representing the pinnacle of success in a field brimming with potential and excitement. As we look forward to the future, one thing is clear: mobile gaming will remain at the forefront of digital entertainment, captivating the hearts and minds of players around the world.
The rankings are based on the total revenue each game generated globally up to 2024. This includes all sources of in-app purchases, such as character unlocks, boosters, and cosmetic items, as well as subscription services where applicable. The data was compiled from verified industry reports and game publishers' disclosures.
Older games like Candy Crush Saga remain popular due to frequent content updates, engaging gameplay, and a dedicated player community. Their consistent innovation, new challenges, and evolving in-game events keep them relevant and attract new players, while loyal fans continue to invest in in-app purchases.
Emerging technologies are making mobile gaming more immersive. AR and VR add layers of depth to gameplay, enhancing user experiences in titles like Pokémon GO. Cloud gaming allows more sophisticated games to be played seamlessly on mobile devices, enabling complex games like Honor of Kings and PUBG Mobile to run with minimal lag and high-quality graphics, improving accessibility and gameplay quality.