In the whirlwind of digital innovation that marked the close of the decade, 2019 stood out as a monumental year in the world of video gaming. A year that blurred the lines between cinematic storytelling and interactive entertainment, 2019 brought gamers an eclectic array of virtual experiences that not only captivated with their immersive worlds but also pushed the boundaries of what video games could achieve. From the adrenaline-fueled action of first-person shooters to the intricate narratives of role-playing adventures, the year offered something for every type of gamer.
Rank | Game | Genre | Developer | Publisher | Platform | Release Date | Revenue |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Fortnite | Survival, battle royale, sandbox | Epic Games | Epic Games | macOS, Windows, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, iOS, Nintendo Switch, Android, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5 | July 25, 2017 | $3,709,000,000 |
2 | PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds | Battle Royale | PUBG Studios | Krafton | Windows, Android, iOS, Xbox One, PlayStation 4, Stadia, Xbox Series X/S, PlayStation 5 | December 20, 2017 | $1,788,000,000 |
3 | Dungeon Fighter Online | MMORPG / Beat 'em up | Neople | Neople | Windows | August 2005 | $1,600,000,000 |
4 | Honor of Kings | Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) | TiMi Studios | Tencent Games, Level Infinite | Android, iOS | November 26, 2015 | $1,600,000,000 |
5 | League of Legends | Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA) | Riot Games | Riot Games | Microsoft Windows, macOS | October 27, 2009 | $1,500,000,000 |
6 | Candy Crush Saga | Puzzle | King | King | iOS, Android, Windows, macOS, Linux | April 12, 2012 | $1,500,000,000 |
7 | Pokémon Go | Augmented Reality (AR), Location-based Game | Niantic | Niantic | iOS, Android | July 6, 2016 | $1,400,000,000 |
8 | Crossfire | First-Person Shooter (FPS) | Smilegate Entertainment | Smilegate | Windows | June 3, 2007 | $1,400,000,000 |
9 | Fate/Grand Order | Role-playing, visual novel | Delightworks, Lasengle | Aniplex, Sega | Android, iOS, iPadOS, Arcade | July 30, 2015 | $1,200,000,000 |
10 | Last Shelter: Survival | Real-Time Strategy, Survival | Long Tech Network Limited | Long Tech | Android, iOS | 2017 | $1,100,000,000 |
As platforms continued to evolve and the anticipation for next-gen consoles grew, 2019’s top releases reflected the industry’s rich diversity and its ability to connect with players across the globe on an unprecedented scale. In this exploration of the best-selling video games of 2019, we delve into the titles that didn’t just dominate sales charts but also captured the hearts and imaginations of millions, setting new standards for creativity and engagement in the digital age.
Best Selling Video Games of 2019
1. Fortnite
Release Date: July 25, 2017 (Fortnite Battle Royale mode launched on September 26, 2017)
Genre: Battle Royale, Survival
Developer: Epic Games
Generating a staggering $3,709,000,000 in revenue in 2019, Fortnite stands as a towering figure in the gaming world, transcending its role as a mere game to become a global cultural phenomenon. Known for its Battle Royale mode where 100 players strive to be the last one standing, Fortnite is distinguished by its vibrant aesthetics, dynamic gameplay, and unique building mechanics. Its success is further fueled by a free-to-play model, regular content updates, seasonal events, and high-profile collaborations, making Fortnite not just a game, but an ever-evolving digital experience that continues to captivate millions worldwide.
2. PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds
Release Date: December 20, 2017
Genre: Battle Royale
Developer: PUBG Studios
Amassing an impressive revenue of $1,788,000,000 in 2019, PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG) solidified its status as a cornerstone in the battle royale genre. Known for its realistic survival gameplay, PUBG drops players onto a deserted island where they must scavenge for weapons, supplies, and vehicles in a tense fight for survival. The game’s emphasis on strategic play, expansive maps, and a more realistic approach to the battle royale format has garnered a massive, dedicated player base. Its success is a testament to the game’s ability to blend high-stakes competition with deep, immersive gameplay experiences, making PUBG a defining game in the competitive gaming landscape.
3. Dungeon Fighter Online
Release Date: August 2005
Genre: MMORPG / Beat ’em up
Developer: Neople
Description: Dungeon Fighter Online (DFO) generated a remarkable $1,600,000,000 in revenue in 2019, showcasing its enduring popularity and the strong commitment of its player base. As a unique blend of classic side-scrolling beat ’em up action and MMORPG elements, DFO offers a rich, engaging experience with its deep character customization, diverse classes, and expansive world filled with dungeons and monsters. The game’s success is attributed to its compelling gameplay, regular updates, and a vibrant community that keeps the world of Arad alive and exciting. DFO’s ability to maintain its appeal over the years, attracting players from across the globe, highlights its timeless design and the developer’s dedication to its community.
4. Honor of Kings/Arena of Valor
Release Date: November 26, 2015 (Honor of Kings in China), October 2016 (Arena of Valor internationally)
Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Developer: TiMi Studios (a subsidiary of Tencent Games)
Honor of Kings, also known as Arena of Valor in international markets, achieved an astounding revenue of $1,600,000,000 in 2019, cementing its position as a titan in the mobile gaming industry. This MOBA game captivates players with its fast-paced, strategic gameplay, allowing them to engage in 5v5 battles across a variety of modes and maps. With a diverse roster of characters inspired by historical and mythological figures, players can find their niche and master different roles. The game’s success is driven by its accessibility, engaging gameplay, and strong community, making it a favorite among casual and competitive gamers alike. Honor of Kings/Arena of Valor’s blend of traditional MOBA elements with mobile accessibility has set a new standard for the genre on handheld devices.
5. League of Legends
Release Date: October 27, 2009
Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
Developer: Riot Games
With a staggering revenue of $1,500,000,000 in 2019, League of Legends stands as a monumental figure in the realm of esports and online gaming. This MOBA game has captivated millions with its intricate gameplay, strategic depth, and dynamic champion roster. Set in the mythical world of Runeterra, players assume the role of a “Summoner” controlling a “Champion” with unique abilities, battling alongside teammates to destroy the opposing team’s Nexus. The game’s enduring popularity is bolstered by its free-to-play model, regular updates, extensive lore, and a globally competitive scene that includes the prestigious League of Legends World Championship. League of Legends’ influence extends beyond gaming, shaping online communities and esports, making it one of the most significant titles in video game history.
6. Candy Crush Saga
Release Date: April 12, 2012
Genre: Puzzle
Developer: King
Candy Crush Saga, with its sweet success of $1,500,000,000 in revenue in 2019, continues to be a dominant force in the mobile gaming world. This match-three puzzle game enchants players with its colorful candy pieces and engaging levels that offer a variety of challenges and objectives. The simple yet addictive gameplay, combined with a freemium model that encourages in-app purchases for power-ups and extra moves, has made it a staple on millions of devices worldwide. Candy Crush Saga’s appeal lies not only in its gameplay but also in its social features, allowing players to compete with friends and share their progress. The game’s enduring popularity is a testament to its design, which keeps players coming back for just one more level, making it one of the most lucrative titles in mobile gaming history.
7. Pokémon Go
Release Date: July 6, 2016
Genre: Augmented Reality (AR), Location-based Game
Developer: Niantic
Pokémon Go’s groundbreaking approach to gaming, blending the virtual world with the physical through augmented reality, led to an impressive revenue of $1,400,000,000 in 2019. This location-based game encourages players to explore their real-world surroundings to catch Pokémon, participate in battles, and collect items at designated PokéStops and Gyms. Its innovative use of AR technology, combined with the beloved Pokémon franchise, created a global phenomenon that brought communities together in shared spaces. Pokémon Go’s success is not just in its financial achievements but in its ability to promote physical activity, social interactions, and exploration, making it a pioneering force in expanding the scope and perception of video gaming.
8. Crossfire
Release Date: June 3, 2007
Genre: First-Person Shooter (FPS)
Developer: Smilegate Entertainment
Crossfire, a titan in the realm of online first-person shooters, achieved an impressive revenue of $1,400,000,000 in 2019. Renowned for its fast-paced action and variety of game modes, Crossfire offers players a classic FPS experience with a modern twist. The game features two mercenary corporations, Black List and Global Risk, pitted against each other in an epic global conflict. With a vast arsenal of weapons, maps, and a strong emphasis on teamwork, Crossfire has captivated millions of players worldwide. Its success is bolstered by its competitive scene, including the annual Crossfire Stars tournament, which showcases the best talent from around the globe. Crossfire’s enduring popularity is a testament to its engaging gameplay, continuous updates, and a passionate community that keeps the battlefield alive and thrilling.
9. Fate/Grand Order
Release Date: July 30, 2015
Genre: Role-Playing Game (RPG)
Developer: Delightworks, Lasengle
Fate/Grand Order (FGO) captivated the mobile gaming world, amassing an impressive $1,200,000,000 in revenue in 2019. This narrative-driven RPG, based on the expansive Fate universe, combines engaging turn-based combat with a rich story that features historical, mythological, and literary figures as “Servants” summoned to fight in a battle to save humanity. The game’s success is driven by its compelling storytelling, deep character development, and strategic gameplay that encourages players to build and optimize teams of Servants. FGO’s free-to-play model, complemented by in-game purchases for summoning these characters, has fostered a dedicated global fanbase. The game’s blend of high-quality writing, art, and voice acting continues to set it apart in the crowded mobile gaming market, making it a standout example of how mobile games can achieve both critical and commercial success.
10. Last Shelter: Survival
Release Date: 2017
Genre: Real-Time Strategy, Survival
Developer: Long Tech Network Limited
Last Shelter: Survival, a strategic tour de force in the world of mobile gaming, achieved a remarkable revenue of $1,100,000,000 in 2019. Set in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, the game challenges players to build and manage their shelters, gather resources, and form alliances to ensure survival against both the undead and rival players. The game combines elements of city-building, troop management, and real-time strategy, offering a multifaceted gaming experience. Its success can be attributed to the depth of its gameplay, the social dynamics of alliance formation, and the constant updates and events that keep the content fresh and engaging. Last Shelter: Survival has not only captivated a vast audience with its immersive post-apocalyptic scenario but has also established a strong community of players committed to surviving the game’s harsh world together.
2019: A Year in Review
The best-selling video games of 2019 stand as a testament to the vast, dynamic landscape of the gaming world. From the virtual battlefields of Fortnite to the puzzle realms of Candy Crush Saga, each title reflects the diverse interests and passions of gamers worldwide. These top games not only dominated sales charts but also shaped gaming trends and community interactions, pushing the boundaries of what video games can achieve in terms of storytelling, engagement, and innovation. As we look back, 2019 will be remembered for its contribution to the evolving narrative of gaming, highlighting the endless possibilities and the unifying power of play in the digital age.