Exploring the 7 Hottest Video Games in the Philippines in 2025
The Filipino gaming industry is booming, with 16,88 million online gamers by 2025 (Statista). No wonder the local developers there are competing to create all sorts of interesting and innovative games, from casual games and simulations to RPGs.
In 2025, various video games are making waves in the Philippines with unique tales, engaging gameplay, and breathtaking graphics. The Philippines also often localized popular international games to capture the hearts of local players.
Source: https://www.statista.com/forecasts/1493933/philippines-estimated-online-gamers
This growing gaming sector shows the country's prowess both in game development and localization. Whether you are an RPG fan, a strategy player, or just a casual gamer, there is something for everyone. Curious about which games are trending and how localization influences local players’ reception? Let’s check it out!
Read more: 5 Best Game Publishers in the Philippines
7 Most Popular Video Games in the Philippines in 2025
The following list highlights the top games that have captivated Filipino players:
1. Minecraft
Minecraft is a sandbox game primarily played in English. In this game, players build and explore endless worlds. Moreover, some APK packages of Minecraft are translated into Filipino. For example, names such as Bar Dunia, Teman, and Server are used.
Additionally, every button is carefully localized. For instance, the command to ride a horse becomes “Umakya.” Likewise, the option to trade pigs is translated as “magpalitan.” These changes create a smooth gaming experience for native speakers.
Furthermore, the enchantment feature is rendered in deep Tagalog. This gives the game an indigenous feel. Consequently, players feel as if they are reading Filipino myths. Minecraft also localizes potion names.
For instance, the potion “poison of feather falling” is known as “Pakpak.” Its effect is described as “slow falling” or “Bagal Hulog.” Unfortunately, some strings are not translated. This is because certain texts are controlled via the internet, not by local files.
2. Valorant
Valorant is a tactical shooter with fast-paced action and strategy. This game is popular among many players. Additionally, players can easily change the language settings. By clicking the V icon at the top left, the interface switches to Tagalog, from the menu to the dialogue.
Interestingly, out of Valorant’s 21 million active players, one of the highest concentrations comes from the Philippines. Around 5.73% of the global player base is Filipino. This shows how much the game has resonated with local gamers.
Furthermore, Valorant’s esports scene is thriving in the country. Many local tournaments attract massive participation, proving that the Filipino player community is both solid and passionate.
One more thing that makes this game well-received by local players is that Riot Games recently released a new agent called Valorant Neon. This agent features unique capabilities and a modern design. Notably, Neon speaks in a Tagalog voice line.
This choice reflects his Filipino background. As a result, Valorant Neon quickly became a favorite. Many players are now choosing Neon over the popular agent Jett. Apart from the flashy electric skills, the agile gameplay adds to the excitement.
The design is visually appealing and energetic. For example, the voice line "Lintik kayo!" means “Hope y’all get electrocuted!” in English. From this, it is indisputable that Valorant stands out among the best video games in the Philippines in 2025.
3. Counter-Strike 2
This game remains the top strategic shooter in the Philippines, captivating players with its high-risk, high-reward gameplay. Strategy, coordination, and accuracy are the ingredients for victory, hence its popularity among competitive players.
Being the latest chapter in the immortal franchise, Counter-Strike 2 introduces upgraded graphics, seamless mechanics, and new maps. However, it holds on to the spirit of the experience that has defined the series for centuries. These touches make the game feel fresh but still hold the competitive edge it has always carried.
Its popularity in the Philippines is also without doubt. More than 1.3 million Filipino players actively play Counter-Strike 2, proving its stronghold in the country's gaming community.
4. Mobile Legends
Mobile Legends continues to dominate the mobile gaming industry, with billions of players worldwide, and the Philippines is no exception. This country ranks second in terms of player numbers, with over 77 million downloads.
Although Indonesia has the highest number of players, the Philippines is the esports champion. The nation's professional team is famous for having good strategies, discipline, and good team dynamics between the players and the coaches. Their record speaks volumes, with two SEA Games gold medals achieved in 2019 and 2022 and two M-Series world championship titles.
One of the most important factors as to why Mobile Legends became such a big hit online game in the Philippines in 2025 is that it is well-localized. The game fully supports Tagalog, allowing players to customize text, voice, and translations based on their preferences. This linguistic adaptation will enable Filipino players to communicate with the game more naturally.
In addition, cultural relevance kicks in, where developers incorporate elements that apply to the local gaming community, making the game more interesting.
Aside from language adaptation and localization, content creation has been a top strategy in building a strong online community as well. For Mobile Legends, viral and shareable content such as memes have worked hugely in connecting with players. Through this strategy, MPL-PH (MLBB Professional League - Philippines) has been strengthened and made more appealing to the Filipino gaming scene.
5. Genshin Impact
Aside from Japan and South Korea, Genshin Impact has taken the Philippines by storm. The game's revenue in the country has skyrocketed, reaching around $26 million, making it one of the highest-earning games in Southeast Asia. But how?
One major factor is cultural relevance. The anime-style visuals of the game also appeal to Filipinos because anime has been a staple of local popular culture since the 1990s. Dragon Ball Z, Flame of Recca, and Ghost Fighter were among the shows that formed the childhoods of most Filipino gamers, and thus, Genshin Impact seems familiar and nostalgic.
Additionally, community engagement is strong. The Genshin Impact Philippines Group serves as a hub for fans to discuss updates, share experiences, and explore game theories.
The game's regular content updates and new challenges also keep local players excited and engaged. This combination of cultural connection, strong community, and continuous updates has made Genshin Impact a major force in the Filipino video game landscape.
Read more: miHoYo Success on Genshin Impact
6. Black Myth: Wukong
Black Myth: Wukong is a big hit in the Philippines, luring RPG enthusiasts with its stunning visuals and addictive game mechanics. It is not a traditional RPG because it does not need the memorization of complex enemy attack patterns, nor does it heavily punish death.
The fighting system is simple but interactive, with light and heavy strikes. The RPG elements are simple to grasp as well, not requiring a lot of theory building or heavy strategy, and therefore simple for casual as well as hardcore gamers.
Even though it is not Tagalog-localized, there are no problems at all among local gamers playing the game in English. The Philippines is Southeast Asia's second most English-literate nation, so most gamers can readily understand the story and gameplay.
7. PUBG Mobile
When it comes to battle royale games, PUBG Mobile remains a favorite among Filipino gamers. One of its biggest strengths is its high-profile collaborations. The game has teamed up with major brands and franchises like Jujutsu Kaisen, Liverpool FC, and Spider-Man: No Way Home, providing exciting new content for players.
Localization has also played a key role in its popularity. PUBG Mobile has launched Tagalog voice packs, Filipino-themed updates, and even Filipino character sets, making the game more relatable. This dedication to effective localization strengthens its connection with Filipino players.
Beyond localization, community involvement is a major factor. Filipino gamers actively stream and create content in Tagalog, increasing engagement and expanding the game’s reach. PUBG Mobile’s ability to merge international appeal with local touches has solidified its place as a leading Filipino video game in 2025.
The Bottom Line
In short, the Filipino gaming industry continues to thrive, with both local and international titles adapting to capture the hearts of players. Apart from gameplay and visuals, one of the important elements that greatly influences the success of these games is their localization, whether in language or cultural adaptation.
Are you also interested in promoting your game to the Philippine market? Then, you better chooseDigital-Trans Asia as your localization partner. Why? With our experience in game localization for Southeast Asia, including the Philippines, we localized the best titles like Genshin Impact, Ragnarok Online, and MLBB and helped your game resonate with local gamers!