Sins of a Dark Age
Above: Well, it’s certainly dark.
Developer: Ironclad Games
Current status: Steam Early Access
Most MOBAs are cartoony and colorful, so Sins of a Dark Age stands out a bit thanks to its darker, more medieval look. It’s from the same developer responsible for the popular strategy game Sins of a Solar Empire. You can try Sins of a Dark Age right now on Steam Early Access for $5.
Deadbreed
Above: How can you breed when you’re dead? Yuck.
Developer: Deadbreed AB
Current status: Steam Early Access
While most MOBAs feature two teams of five fighting each other, Deadbreed features 3-on-3 battles. It also features tools that enable for deeper character customization than those you find in most of its competitors. Like Sins of a Dark Age, it features a darker art style. You can also play it now via Steam Early Access, although it’s a bit more pricey than other MOBAs (most of which are free-to-play) at $20.
Dead Island: Epidemic
Above: The MOBA epidemic might actually be worse than the zombie one.
Developer: Stunlock Studios
Current status: Steam Early Access
Dead Island: Epidemic claims that it’s the first ZOBA (zombie online battle arena). Cute. It’s an action-focused take on a MOBA that’s also a spinoff of the open-world Dead Island series. It’s available right now on Steam Early Access for at least $17 (you can buy more expensive bundles that give you more content).
Magicka: Wizard Wars
Above: Kill it with lightning!
Developer: Paradox North
Current status: Steam Early Access
Magicka: Wizard Wars is a competitive take on the Magicka series, a cooperative action role-playing game that already had plenty of elements similar to most MOBAs. Like in the original, teammates can combine spells for powerful effects. It’s also on Steam Early Access, but it’s free-to-play.
Arena of Fate
Above: Arena of Fate features an interesting collection of heroes.
Developer: Crytek Black Sea
Current status: Steam Early Access
Arena of Fate is publisher Crytek’s bid for MOBA dominance. It features characters from history and legend, like Little Red Riding Hood, Joan of Arc, and Tesla. It promises a streamlined experience that’ll give new players greater accessibility.
Transformers Universe
Above: Transformers, MOBA meets the eyes. Transformers, MOBA in disguise.
Developer: Jagex Games Studio
Current status: Open beta
Transformers Universe brings everyone’s favorite Decepticons and Autobots into the world of MOBAs. Developer Jagex is hoping to create an experience accessible for the franchise’s younger fans. It just entered open beta, so you can try it for free right now.