The MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) genre has had a limited presence on consoles and lacks standout titles over the years. However, with the upcoming release of Smite 2, there is optimism in the gaming community that this long-awaited sequel could breathe new life into the console MOBA scene.
Smite, the god-slaying MOBA, originally launched on consoles in 2014 and has garnered a dedicated following. Now, Smite 2 is on the horizon, promising to rebuild the entire experience from the ground up using Unreal Engine 5, introducing physics-based abilities, a fresh user interface, and a host of new content.
This article delves into the potential impact of Smite 2 on the console MOBA landscape and why it is eagerly anticipated.
A decade of console MOBA drought
Despite the popularity of MOBAs on PC and even mobile platforms, the console ecosystem has struggled to establish a thriving MOBA community. While titles like League of Legends: Wild Rift have made progress in this regard, the genre has not seen the explosive growth on consoles that it has enjoyed on other platforms.
Nearly a decade has passed since the original Smite’s successful console debut, and players and industry observers are left wondering why the console MOBA landscape remains relatively barren.
One key factor that sets Smite apart in the console MOBA space is its adoption of a third-person perspective, making it more accessible and enjoyable for players using controllers. Traditional MOBAs like League of Legends and Dota 2 rely on a click-to-move and interact system, which doesn’t translate well to consoles.
Smite’s decision to embrace a third-person view made it a more welcoming experience for console gamers. Apart from Smite, there have been a few other attempts at bringing MOBAs to consoles. Notable exceptions include Guardians of Middle-Earth in 2012 and the arrival of League of Legends: Wild Rift. However, none have achieved the level of success seen by Smite.
The potential console audience for MOBAs
With over 40 million players worldwide, Smite’s success on consoles challenges the notion that MOBAs are exclusively a PC genre. The significant player base on consoles demonstrates that an audience is eager to engage with MOBA gameplay on these platforms.
Smite’s sequel, Smite 2, is already generating excitement among console gamers, as it is announced for consoles alongside its PC release. The simultaneous launch is a promising move, allowing PS5 and Xbox players to join in on the launch window hype. This strategic approach could potentially ignite a MOBA revolution on consoles.
Looking ahead to Smite 2
Smite 2 brings a host of exciting changes and enhancements to the table. The shift to Unreal Engine 5 promises improved graphics and smoother gameplay, while the introduction of physics-based abilities adds a new layer of depth to combat.
A revamped user interface will enhance the overall gaming experience, and adding new God pantheons and system overhauls will keep the gameplay fresh for veterans and newcomers alike. If executed flawlessly, Smite 2 has the potential to not only be one of the best MOBAs ever created but also a catalyst for a console MOBA resurgence.
Awaiting the console MOBA revolution
As the gaming community eagerly anticipates the release of Smite 2, hopes are high that it will not only deliver an exceptional gaming experience but also pave the way for a thriving console MOBA scene. Smite’s unique approach to consoles has already demonstrated the potential for MOBAs beyond the PC realm.
With Smite 2’s simultaneous release on consoles and its impressive improvements, it may just be the title to spark the revolution that console gamers have been waiting for. Until then, players can continue to explore the current roster of gods in the original Smite and explore the ever-growing library of games available on PS5 and Xbox, hoping that a new MOBA will soon grace their screens.