Southeast Asia has become one of the liveliest places for gaming. From mobile games during a quick break to late nights at casino tables, people across the region are spending more time on games than ever.
Places like Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines have seen gaming take off in every direction, whether it’s video games or gambling. Some people play to win, some just want to kill time, and others chase the rush that only a good game can bring.
While preferences differ from one country to another, certain games stand out for their reach, popularity, and influence. Below are ten of the most played and talked-about games across Southeast Asia today.
- Mobile Legends: Bang Bang
Mobile Legends leads the pack in Southeast Asia. It’s a multiplayer battle game that’s easy to pick up but difficult to master. Its fast pace and five-versus-five format make it ideal for players who want action without long waiting times.
In Malaysia and Indonesia, it’s common to see groups of friends gathered at cafés, each holding a phone, eyes glued to the screen. The competitive scene is massive, with local tournaments packing stadiums and online streams hitting millions of views. Teams from the Philippines and Malaysia are now global names in the eSports world.
- Sic Bo
Sic Bo has become very popular across Southeast Asia. This dice game lets players bet on different outcomes from three dice; simple to understand but still exciting to play. Many people now play Sic Bo online instead of traveling to casinos, especially as several online casinos featured on Casino Beats Malaysia include Sic Bo in their game selections. The quick rounds and variety of betting options make it appealing for both casual players and those looking for more excitement beyond slot games.
The trend toward online gaming continues throughout the region. Whether trying their luck with Sic Bo or exploring other options, more Southeast Asian players are embracing the convenience and accessibility of digital platforms.
- PUBG Mobile
PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds, better known as PUBG Mobile, made a lasting impact across Southeast Asia. It brings a different type of thrill. Players drop into a shrinking map, pick up weapons, and fight to be the last one standing.
Thailand and Vietnam have some of the most skilled players in global rankings. Schools and universities often see PUBG tournaments that attract huge crowds. What started as a casual shooter turned into a full-scale eSport with professional teams, sponsors, and prize pools.
It’s no longer just a game—it’s a sport for many young people in the region.
- Genshin Impact
Genshin Impact offers something completely different. With no survival matches or shooting sprees, this one’s all about story, exploration, and stunning visuals. Players dive into a huge open world, unlock characters, follow quests, and build their own pace.
In Malaysia and Singapore, the game caught on quickly. What’s interesting is that it attracted people who never really played games before. Some got hooked by the graphics, while others stayed for the story. Genshin feels more like an adventure you sink into, not just something you play between errands.
- Dota 2
Dota 2 has been around for years, and it still hasn’t lost its grip on Southeast Asia. Even with all the new mobile games climbing the charts, Dota holds its place, especially in Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.
You’ll still find players filling up cyber cafés for all-night matches. It’s a game that demands focus, skill, and serious teamwork. Many of the best teams in global tournaments come from this region, and that’s not by accident. Players here grew up on it. Dota shaped the way people viewed online gaming before anything else really took off.
There’s also a lot of nostalgia tied to it. Ask anyone who’s been in the gaming scene for a while, and they’ll tell you stories about their first Dota match years ago. That sense of history still keeps people coming back to the game, even after all this time.
- Pai Gow Poker
Pai Gow Poker is now very popular across Southeast Asia’s online casinos. This card game mixes traditional Chinese Pai Gow with Western poker. Players must form two poker hands from seven cards.
Players like the game’s slower pace and need for strategy. The game offers a lower house edge than many other casino games. This attracts careful players in Malaysia and Singapore who prefer more than just luck-based options.
Online casinos now offer this game to more people across the region. New players benefit from automatic help with hand arrangements. This lets them enjoy the game right away while they learn the best strategies over time.
- League of Legends
League of Legends remains a dominant force in Southeast Asia’s gaming culture. This team-based strategy game puts players in control of unique champions with different abilities. Teams of five compete to destroy the enemy base.
The competitive scene in Vietnam and the Philippines draws massive crowds to tournaments and events. Professional teams from the region now compete at world championships. Local stars become celebrities with large social media followings.
Internet cafes across Southeast Asia are still filled with players every evening. Its balance of teamwork, strategy, and action continues to attract new players even after more than a decade.
- Dragon Tiger
Dragon Tiger is a fast-paced card game that has gained popularity across Southeast Asia. Originating from Cambodia, the game involves placing bets on either the dragon or the tiger card. The one with the higher value wins. That’s it. No complex rules. No multi-round strategies.
Its simplicity attracts both new and seasoned players. In Vietnam and Thailand, it’s a common sight in both physical casinos and online rooms. It delivers suspense without the need for long sessions.
- Live Baccarat
Baccarat holds a long-standing place in Southeast Asia’s casino culture. The rise of live baccarat online has only strengthened its hold. Unlike traditional digital versions, live baccarat uses real dealers and real tables, streamed in real-time.
Malaysia and Singapore show the highest engagement in this category. Many players say the human touch makes the game more exciting. The interaction between players and dealers creates a more immersive experience, even from a screen. This is true of several platforms that allow users to chat with others at the table, creating a social setting that keeps people coming back.
Conclusion
Southeast Asia’s gaming scene reflects its diversity, energy, and fast-changing habits. Whether you look at mobile games that dominate daily commutes or online casinos that run 24/7, the region continues to shape what gaming looks like on a global scale.
Malaysia, in particular, shows strength in both eSports and casino platforms. The mix of casual players, professional competitors, and weekend gamblers keeps the industry alive and moving