20+ Games Like PUBG That Hit Different This Year

Almost every game lover has tried the battle royale genre. Besides, who has not played PUBG? The game took the battle royale feel to the next level with its intense gameplay and became famous. Also, a game development company used the game’s depth to create an adrenaline fueled gaming feel. However, players now yearn for something fresh. They want experts to make a game app that creates an exGenre: Sandbox, Survivalciting, last-man-standing thrill, but with a distinct vibe, new gameplay mechanics, or just a different journey to embark on.

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Players seek games like PUBG. This is due to the high-adrenaline thrill of a battle royale gaming feel. Besides, the game features unique matches and the stakes are high due to the lack of respawning.

 

In 2025, many more games like PUBG have hit differently. Besides, the reasons for their fame include the skill-based and genuine gunplay added by mobile game developers. Also, the tension of outlasting other players and the options to play with friends have made these games famous. As a result, players seek the endless replay options offered by diverse outcomes in every match of these games.

 

Other games like PUBG are pushing the battle royale genre into new directions. Besides, skilled game app development companies are adding mechanics like hero skills and different modes. Also, they are adding distinct narrative and story elements in games like Off the Grid and faster-paced gameplay loops in games like Call of Duty. As a result, these unique features enable these new games to stand out and offer varied gaming feels beyond PUBG’s tactical gunplay.

 

In this article

 

This article will explore the 20+ immersive games like PUBG that stand out. It will also explain how a game development company is working on these addictive games to attract more players.

 

Why Is PUBG Popular?

 

PUBG is popular due to its battle royale gameplay. Besides, it focuses on tactical, genuine gameplay with high-stakes tension. Also, it is a free-to-play model, mainly on mobile platforms. As a result, it attracts more gamers.

 

PUBG Reshaped the Genre

 

PUBG reshaped the battle royale feel. Besides, custom mobile game development services took the trial concept in the game to create the first successful, standalone battle royale game. Also, they promoted the formula of multiple players dropping onto a large, shrinking map to search for gear and fight to be the last person or team standing.

 

Mobile game developers set new standards with the game’s graphics and tactical gameplay. As a result, it appealed to many players and shaped the battle royale space.

 

PUBG Offered Immersive Gameplay

 

A game development company offered immersion in PUBG. Besides, it used detailed graphics and varied spaces that mirrored real-world terrains. Also, the game featured genuine physics and ballistics with a distinct sound design.

 

PUBG also became popular due to its accessibility. Besides, players could play the game on PC, mobile, or console. Also, the mobile version designed by game app development services has brought the battle royale gaming feel to many players who do not own a high-end gaming PC or console.

 

20+ Immersive Games Like PUBG

 

 

Today’s game players are drawn to the challenge of overcoming other players. Besides, they want to be the last one standing in a game. Also, mobile game developers craft each match to present a new scenario. As a result, they add different enemy positions and loot locations and ensure high replay value.

 

The appeal of games like PUBG is the intense feeling of excitement. Besides, when experts make a game app, they use this element, which is deemed a roller coaster ride for players. As a result, it excites players, mainly in the final moments of a match.

 

The death mechanic in battle royale games heightens the tension. After all, losing means the entire match is over. As a result, game app development services use this aspect to make every decision and action more impactful.

 

Most gamers today prefer powerful, high-stakes multiplayer games. Besides, they want to delve into new titles now and then. If you wish to explore some of the new action-packed games like PUBG that landed this year with a bang, continue reading as we research them in this article.

 

1. Fortnite

 

• Genre: Sandbox, Survival
• Developer: Epic Games
• Publisher: Epic Games
• Release Date 2017

Platforms: Windows and PlayStation

 

The game’s colourful design appeals to players. On the other hand, its social features, cross platform options, and events keep players hooked and attract new ones.

 

Fortnite stands apart with smart building mechanics and a distinct art style. Besides, mobile game developers at Epic Games offer players a constant stream of engaging content through in-game events. Also, it is a free-to-play game with cross-platform functions.

 

Fortnite has around 650 million registered players. Besides, it has millions of daily active users.

 

2. Apex Legends

 

 

• Genre: Adventure
• Developer: Respawn Entertainment
• Publisher: Electronic Arts
• Release Date 2019

 

Platforms: Windows, Xbox, PlayStation, Android, and iOS.

 

The game is designed by Respawn. They are known for a focus on strategic team play when they make a game app. Also, they add excellent shooting mechanics and fluid movement.

 

A skilled game development company like Respawn has offered a high-quality gaming feel in the game. Besides, it combines solid battle royale elements with unique twists. Also, a live service model keeps the game fresh for players.

 

The game has surpassed millions of players to date. Besides, the number of daily active users exceeds hundreds of thousands.

 

3. Call of Duty- Warzone

 

 

• Genre: Battle Royale
• Developer: Infinity Ward and Raven Software
• Publisher Activision
• Release Date 2020

 

Platforms: PlayStation and Windows

 

Features that game development companies like Infinity Ward and Raven Software used to set the game apart include its smooth working with other titles. Besides, it used a unique mechanic where excluded players can fight for a second chance and use cash currency instead of relying heavily on gadgets.

 

The game has surpassed millions of registered players. Besides, it has millions of daily active players as of 2025.

 

4. Garena Free Fire

 

 

• Genre: Adventure
• Developer: 111dots Studio
• Publisher: Garena
• Release Date 2017

 

Platforms: Android and iOS

 

Garena Free Fire is a free to play mobile game that runs well on lower end devices. Besides, a game app development company like 111dots Studio has added a short gameplay format to the game.

 

As of 2024, the game had hundreds of millions of daily active users and had surpassed a billion of downloads.

 

5. Dota 2

 

 

• Genre: Multiplayer Online Battle Arena game
• Developer: Valve Corporation
• Publisher: Valve Corporation
• Release Date 2013

 

Platform: Mac OS and Linux versions

 

Dota 2 is renowned due to its complex gameplay. Besides, a game app development company like Valve Corporation has added unique heroes to the game. Also, it has added a skill-based, team-oriented nature to its competitive scene, with a free-to-play model.

 

Valve constantly updates the game. Besides, it adds new content, heroes, and balance changes. As a result, it keeps the gameplay fresh for its players.

 

The game had millions of downloads as of May 2025. Besides, daily active player counts are around 423,457 in June 2025.

 

6. Knives Out

 

 

• Genre: Adventure
• Developer: NetEase Games
• Publisher: NetEase Games
• Release Date 2019

 

Platform: iOS and Android

 

Knives Out is known for a clever modern take. Besides, it features a superb ensemble cast. Also, the game app development services of NetEase Games added a compelling blend of mystery and humour to the game.

 

The game surprises players with unexpected plot twists. Besides, it provides a logical and pleasing mystery. Also, the game’s originality in a market often led by sequels and reboots has added to its success.

 

The game’s total registered players surpassed 250 million as of September 2018, and it had 91 million mobile downloads globally by October 2022.

 

7. Counter Strike

 

 

• Genre: Tactical First Person Shooter
• Developer: Valve Corporation
• Publisher: Sierra Entertainment and Valve
• Release Date 2000

 

Platform: Windows, Linux, and Xbox.

 

Counter Strike is loved due to its basic gameplay. Besides, a game development company like Valve Corporation has balanced the game’s skill-based nature with a strong and thriving esports scene. Also, it has added a viable in game economy centred around weapon skins and trading.

 

The game’s mechanics have also fostered great appeal. As a result, players have connected with the franchise across decades.

 

The game has reached 210 million total registered users by late 2024. Besides, as of early September 2025, it has a daily peak of over 1.5 million concurrent players and over 800,000 average daily players.

 

8. Rules of Survival

 

 

• Genre: Adventure
• Developer: NetEase Games
• Publisher: NetEase Games
• Release Date 2018

 

Platform: iOS, Android, and PC

 

Rules of Survival became popular. Besides, it was a well made, free to play mobile battle royale game. Also, a game app development company like NetEase Games offered smooth gameplay and constant content updates in the game. As a result, it was a strong title around its 2017 launch, mainly after the success of PUBG.

 

The game appealed to players with its varied game modes. Also, players loved the thrill of being the last survivor in the game.

 

At its peak in October 2018, the game had millions of players worldwide.

 

9. Eternal Return

 

 

• Genre: Survival
• Developer: Nimble Neuron
• Publisher: Nimble Neuron, SapStaR Games
• Release Date 2023

 

Platform: PC, Windows

 

Eternal Return is popular due to its unique MOBA-like Battle Royale formula. Besides, custom mobile game development services at Nimble Neuron blended search and craft mechanics in the game.

 

10. NARAKA: BLADEPOINT

 

 

• Genre: Adventure
• Developer: 24 Entertainment
• Publisher: NetEase Games Global
• Release Date 2021

 

Platform: Windows, PlayStation

 

The game is loved in the battle royale space due to its strategic combat. Also, skilled game app development services at 24 Entertainment added grappling hook mechanics for unique traversal and frequent content updates. As a result, the game attracts and retains players.

 

The game had over 40 million unique players across all platforms as of November 2023. Besides, its current daily active users have been in the thousands in recent months.

 

11. Vampire- The Masquerade Bloodhunt

 

 

• Genre: Adventure
• Developer: Sharkmob
• Publisher: Sharkmob
• Release Date 2022

 

Platform: Windows, PlayStation

 

The game is loved due to its unique blend of vampire themed combat and powers. Besides, custom mobile game development services at Sharkmob added a fast-paced vertical movement to the game that stands out. Also, its appeal lies in being a free-to-play battle royale with a distinct design and a free battle pass.

 

The game had a strong start, reaching over six million players in its first year. Besides, its average daily concurrent players hover around 250-350.

 

12. Z1 Battle Royale

 

 

• Genre: Multiplayer, Action
• Developer: Daybreak Game Company
• Publisher: Daybreak Game Company
• Release Date 2018

 

Platform: Microsoft Windows and PlayStation

 

The game was loved as an early battle royale game with a fast paced, arcade like gameplay loop. Besides, it had a solid approach that fostered player interaction. Also, custom mobile game development services at Daybreak Game Company added a competitive scene with tournaments that drew major streamers.

 

The fame of the original H1Z1 game led to the creation of the Z1 Battle Royale brand. Besides, it focused on classic features from a golden era.

 

The game has over 10 million owners on PlayStation alone. Besides, its current Steam average daily active users are around 950 to 1,000.

 

13. Blood Strike

 

 

• Genre: Action
• Developer: NetEase Games
• Publisher: NetEase Games
• Release Date 2024

 

Platform: PC, iOS, and Android

 

Blood Strike is renowned as a fast paced game. Besides, mobile game developers at NetEase Games help offer a smooth gaming feel with unique character skills, gunplay, and content updates. Also, players can access it on lower-end devices.

 

The game combines FPS mechanics with unique striker options. As a result, it creates an engaging gameplay loop that attracts players.

 

The game has fans of classic FPS gameplay. Also, frequent updates, balance patches, and events have helped the game keep a loyal fan base.

 

14. Lost Light: Weapon Skin Treat

 

 

• Genre: Adventure
• Developer: NetEase Games
• Publisher: NetEase Games
• Release Date 2022

 

Platform: iOS and Android

 

Lost Light: Weapon Skin Treat” is a specialized version of the game Lost Light. Besides, a game app development company like NetEase Games allows players to customize weapon skins within the game.

 

The game is a popular mobile survival shooter. Besides, it offers an immersive post apocalyptic battlefield and weapons that players can customize with parts. Also, the game offers gameplay that blends combat with looting.

 

Players prefer the game’s weapon mechanics and strategic depth in the Exclusion Zone. Besides, they love the option that the game offers to build and manage their Shelter.

 

The game has had an average player count ranging from over 240 to over 800 in the last 30 days.

 

15. Farlight 84

 

 

• Genre: Adventure, Shooter
• Developer: Farlight Games
• Publisher: Farlight Games
• Release Date 2023

 

Platform: Windows, iOS, and Android

 

Farlight 84 is a free to play Hero Battle Royale game. Besides, a game app development company like Farlight Games has added hero-based skills and unique jetpack movement to the game. Also, it added a vibrant art style and dynamic gameplay within a fantasy battle royale setting.

 

The game stands out with characters that possess distinct skills. Besides, experts added companions to the game that provide tactical value, setting it apart from other titles. Also, the game offers fast paced, action packed matches and player engaged content updates, which add to its appeal.

 

The game had millions of global users in 2023 with over one million daily active players.

 

16. Marvel Rivals

 

 

• Genre: Third-Person Hero Shooter
• Developer: NetEase Games
• Publisher: NetEase Games
• Release Date 2024

 

Platform: PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox

 

Marvel Rivals is a free to play hero shooter designed by NetEase Games.

 

Marvel Rivals has a massive appeal of the Marvel IP. Besides, game app development services at NetEase Games added a distinct hero shooter gameplay featuring heroic team-ups. Also, it offers a free-to-play model and frequent, feedback-driven updates.

 

The game combines hero shooter mechanics with distinct skills that mimic Marvel movie crossovers. As a result, it appeals to fans of comics and video games.

 

Marvel Rivals had reached over millions of players by February 2025.

17. Frostfall

 

 

• Genre: Battle Royale
• Developer: Dusk Games
• Publisher: Dusk Games
• Release Date: 2019

 

Platform: iOS and Android

 

Frostfall is a famous game. Besides, custom mobile game development services at Dusk Games added deep, genuine survival mechanics. Also, it transforms the game world into a more challenging space where players must track their warmth, find shelter, and plan journeys.

 

The game offers players a robust and feature-rich survival feel. As a result, it enhances gameplay.

 

18. Zooba

 

 

• Genre: MOBA game
• Developer: Wildlife Studios
• Publisher: Wildlife Studios
• Release Date: 2019

 

Platform: iOS and Android

 

Zooba is a free to play battle royale game. Besides, mobile game developers at Wildlife Studios let players trade soldiers and guns for zoo animals and superb weaponry in the game. Also, the game has millions of downloads. As a result, it proves that you can use elements other than genuine graphics or gritty warfare to design adrenaline-pumping action.

 

Zooba offers unique gameplay featuring cute animal characters. Besides, it features fast-paced battle royale action.

 

19. Valorant

 

 

• Genre: Tactical First Person Shooter
• Developer: Riot Games
• Publisher: Riot Games
• Release Date 2020

 

Platform: PC, PlayStation, Xbox

 

Valorant is the breakout entry of a game development company like Riot Games into the tactical shooter space. Besides, the game combines precise gunplay with unique hero-based skills.

 

The game offers a free to play model. Besides, it offers a high-quality tactical shooter that blends distinct gameplay with new agent skills. Also, Riot Games’ support with frequent updates and fresh content keeps players hooked and attracts new ones.

 

20. Last Mage Standing

 

 

• Genre: Action RPG, Shooter
• Developer: Roboto Games
• Publisher: Roboto Games
• Release Date: 2019

 

Platform: iOS, Android, Mac

 

Last Mage Standing is an action-packed battle royale game. Besides, mobile game developers at Roboto Games blend the thrill of combat with smart gameplay elements. Also, the gameplay is quick and intense.

 

Players can jump into different modes in the game. These include solo or team battle royale. As a result, it keeps the game fresh and appealing and urges players to try diverse Guardians and tactics.

 

Last Mage Standing is a free-to-play game. Besides, it has diverse engaging modes that appeal to many players. Also, the game’s dynamic combat through collecting skills stands out. As a result, it adds to its appeal.

 

The game’s pixel art style and cross-platform options further boost its appeal. If you are piqued by the method of how to make a game app like this, contact a game design company.

 

21. Bullet Echo

 

 

• Genre: Tactical shooter, Action
• Developer: ZeptoLab
• Publisher: ZeptoLab
• Release Date 2020

 

Platform: Mobile (Android and iOS)

 

Bullet Echo is a free to play, fast paced, top down action shooter. Besides, it is designed and published by ZeptoLab.

 

The game offers quick, tactical matches in a top-down view with unique heroes and skills. Besides, experts at the company offer a flashlight mechanic in the game. Also, the game is addictive due to its fast paced nature.

 

As of April 2025, the game has amassed millions of downloads.

 

Final word

 

PUBG has been the game that promoted the battle royale genre for game lovers. However, it is not the only option out there. There are many games like PUBG that excite players and offer distinct gameplay. Hence, if you are seeking more games like PUBG or wish to make a game app that becomes popular, seek experts at a game development company like Meta App Designs. After all, they can help you design a game that players will love.

 

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