In the vibrant landscape of Malaysian gaming, 2023 has been an exciting and groundbreaking year. With the release of highly anticipated titles and the resurgence of some great classics, the gaming community in Malaysia has been buzzing with excitement. From action-packed shooters to immersive role-playing adventures, there is something available for every type of gamer.
But which video games have captured the hearts and screens of Malaysians more than others?
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1. Valorant
Developed and published by Riot Games, Valorant has emerged as a dominant force in the Malaysian gaming scene and it’s no wonder why. Combining elements of tactical shooters with unique characters possessing distinct abilities, Valorant offers a competitive experience like no other and has become increasingly popular not just in Malaysia, but worldwide, with an estimated number of approximately 20,407,122 players around the globe.
Malaysia has seen a surge in Valorant’s popularity thanks to the thriving e-sports culture in the country. Many local talents have risen to prominence in the international Valorant scene, drawing attention to Malaysia as a competitive force to be reckoned with. The game’s continuous updates and addition of new enticing agents ensure that players are always engaged and excited to dive into the virtual battlegrounds.
2. Online Baccarat
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, online gambling in Malaysia has become a popular and thriving industry. With a plethora of options available offshore, as online gambling is a somewhat gray area in Malaysia, discerning players are spoilt for choice. However, the one game that always remains popular in Malaysia, and much of Asia as a whole, is Baccarat.
Baccarat’s popularity in Malaysia continues to soar as online platforms become more and moer accessible. Its appeal is partly due to its straightforward gameplay and low house edge, meaning players have more chance of winning compared to many other online gambling games. It’s a game of elegance and simplicity, making it accessible to both seasoned players and newbies alike. The availability of live dealer versions further enhances the experience, providing an authentic casino atmosphere, all from the comfort of your own home.
The game is more popular than casino classics like roulette and craps in Las Vegas, with players there winning more than $604 million in 2020. The game also accounts for more than 10% of Macau’s GDP, so it’s clearly not just Malaysians that are Baccarat fans. Malaysia’s one and only casino is home to 500 games tables, including many variations of Baccarat, and it’s also one of the largest casinos by number of tables in the world.
3. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, developed by Moonton, has established itself as a staple in the Malaysian mobile gaming community. This multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game boasts fast-paced action, strategic gameplay, and a wide array of heroes to choose from. Its accessibility on mobile devices, amazing features, and regular updates has made it a go-to choice for savvy gamers. According to the developers, the game has exceeded over 1 billion downloads worldwide since it was launched.
Like Valorant, the Mobile Legends e-sports scene is vibrant in Malaysia, with local teams competing in regional and international tournaments. The game’s frequent updates, which introduce new heroes, skins, and balance changes, keep the experience fresh and exciting for both casual players and competitive enthusiasts. Mobile Legends: Bang Bang continues to foster a strong sense of camaraderie within the Malaysian gaming community.
4. New World
Amazon Games’ New World has sparked a revolution in the MMO (Massively Multiplayer Online) genre. Set in the fictional land of Aeternum, players embark on an immersive journey filled with exploration, crafting, and intense battles. The game’s dynamic player-driven economy and faction-based warfare have resonated strongly with Malaysian gamers.
New World’s appeal in Malaysia lies in its breathtaking visuals, deep crafting system, and the sense of community that emerges from faction conflicts. The game’s regular updates and introduction of new features keep players engaged and eager to uncover more of Aeternum’s mysteries. With so much to offer, the game continues to be popular both in Malaysia and worldwide, with MMO Populations estimating the total player count at approximately 15.24 million. With guilds and alliances forming within the Malaysian player base, New World has become a virtual realm where friendships are forged, and legends are born.
5. Animal Crossing: New Horizons
Nintendo’s Animal Crossing: New Horizons has captured the hearts of Malaysians with its wholesome and relaxing gameplay. Set on a deserted island, players embark on a journey of creativity, customization, and community-building. The game’s open-ended nature allows players to express themselves through designing their dream island paradise.
The charm of Animal Crossing lies in its ability to provide a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Malaysians and others have embraced the game’s sense of serenity and camaraderie, often connecting with friends and family through online visits to each other’s peaceful tropical islands. In fact, according to Player Counter, approximately 11,000,000 players wordwide log on each month. The game’s seasonal events and updates ensure that there is always something new to discover, making Animal Crossing: New Horizons a beloved staple in Malaysian households.
6. Genshin Impact
Developed by miHoYo, Genshin Impact has taken the gaming world by storm with its visually stunning open-world and engaging storyline. This action-packed RPG invites players into the enchanting and beautiful realm of Teyvat, a land brimming with elemental magic and fantasy creatures. Players assume the role of the Traveler, embarking on a journey to rescue their lost sibling and uncover the secrets of this mesmerizing world.
Malaysians have fallen in love with Genshin Impact for its captivating narrative, diverse character roster, and meticulous attention to detail. The game’s live-service model, which regularly introduces new content and events, keeps players invested and eager to explore more of Teyvat. With a growing community and events organized by local fans, Genshin Impact has quickly become a cultural phenomenon in Malaysia and was the most tweeted about game in Singapore and Malaysia in 2022, earning an estimated USD $2 billion in revenue from sales globally since it launched in September 2020.
Final Words
The gaming scene, including both video games and online gambling, in Malaysia for 2023 is diverse and vibrant, catering to a wide range of player preferences. Whether it’s choosing an online casino for the strategic allure of baccarat, or opting for an enchanting, captivating video game, there’s something for everyone. With the industry constantly evolving and new games and technologies emerging, the Malaysian gaming scene promises to continue captivating players for many years to come.
