⚔️ MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena)
TL;DR: MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) is a subgenre of strategy video games where two teams of players control individual hero characters, competing to destroy the opposing team’s main structure [S1].
❓ 1. Overview & Origins
Originating from the StarCraft custom map Aeon of Strife and popularized by Warcraft III’s Defense of the Ancients (DotA), the term “MOBA” was coined by Riot Games upon releasing League of Legends in 2009.
🕹️ 2. Core Gameplay Elements
- Three-Lane Map Architecture: Symmetric maps featuring Top, Mid, Bottom lanes, and an intervening Jungle area.
- Resource & EXP Economy: Earn gold and experience by defeating creeps, jungle monsters, and enemy heroes to purchase power-boosting items.
- Role Specialization: 5v5 team compositions consisting of Tanks, Mages, Junglers, Marksmen, and Supports.
📚 References
- Minotti, M. (2014). The History of MOBAs: From Mod to Millions. VentureBeat. [S1]
🔭 See Also
- Dota — Pioneering MOBA title.
- League of Legends — World’s largest esports MOBA.
- Real-Time Strategy — Ancestral RTS genre.
- eSports — Competitive esports ecosystem.