Arena of Valor vs Mobile Legends? Games Comparing

As many of you, the Blix team on the word MOBA first recalls known loud favorites like LoL (we recently wrote about patch 14.24) or Dota 2 (“The Least Successful Dota 2 Heroes in 2024 in PUB Games“, remember?) – but that’s far from all.

When it comes to mobile MOBAs, two titans vie for supremacy: Arena of Valor (AoV) and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB). Both are renowned and time-proven and offer compelling experiences. They cater to distinct player preferences, so let’s dissect their intricacies to determine which aligns with your gaming proclivities.

Highlights

• Recap of the games’ origin dates
• Comparison of the gameplay and map design
• Different approaches to controls
• Diversity in strategies of itemization, customization and builds focus
• Similar monetization models and esports scenes
• Various visual themes and appeal
• Concluding choice summary
• Additional: resemblances of both games

Game Origins and Early Reception

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB for short – but you must’ve guessed already) – a child of Moonton, was presented on July 11, 2016 (Android) and November 9, 2016 (iOS). It is totally obtainable and regularly updated, cementing its status, particularly in Southeast Asia, with an unparalleled player base.

Conversely, Arena of Valor, published by Tencent Games, premiered on November 26, 2015, under various regional monikers before adopting a unified global title. Collaborations with entities like DC Comics, introducing characters such as Batman and Wonder Woman, propelled its popularity, earning it Google Play’s Most Popular Game accolade in 2017.

Map Design and Gameplay Features

MLBB’s “Land of Dawn” battleground features a 5v5 setup with three lanes, turrets, and jungle areas teeming with monsters. This design fosters aggressive play and rapid skirmishes.

In contrast, AoV’s “Antaris Battlefield” adopts a more strategic approach. While maintaining the traditional three-lane structure, its jungle layout emphasizes objective-focused gameplay, demanding meticulous planning and coordination.

Control Systems and Accessibility

Both games employ a joystick-and-button interface. MLBB offers simplified controls, appealing to casual players. AoV, however, provides a more intricate control scheme, catering to those seeking precision and a competitive edge.

Attributes and Customization

MLBB’s Emblem System allows players to tailor stats like attack power or cooldown reduction for specific heroes, offering a beginner-friendly customization avenue.

AoV’s Arcana system provides a more complex attribute enhancement mechanic, requiring players to unlock and equip Arcana thoughtfully, thus offering deeper customization for dedicated players.

Visual Appeal and Themes

MLBB showcases vibrant, cartoon-style graphics with clear animations, complementing its fast-paced gameplay.

AoV delivers a sophisticated visual style with high-definition character models and realistic effects. The inclusion of licensed DC superheroes further distinguishes its artistic presentation.

Itemization and Build Strategies

MLBB simplifies item purchasing with recommended builds, easing the process for newcomers. Veterans can manually tweak builds for optimal performance.

AoV demands deeper strategic planning, rewarding players who carefully consider item synergy and make informed in-game decisions.

Monetization Models

Both games are free-to-play but adopt different monetization strategies. AoV allows players to purchase heroes and skins using in-game gold or real money, with skins being purely cosmetic.

MLBB permits the acquisition of minor stat boosts through skins and emblems, offering slight advantages, though skilled players can still outperform those with these enhancements.

Esports and Competitive Scenes

Unsurprisingly, both have carved niches in the esports. MLBB has its “Mobile Legends: Bang Bang World Championship”—a known attractor: many teams, substantial prize pools, and intense matches.

AoV’s is “Arena of Valor World Cup”. Likewise, it garners international attention but more for the game’s strategic depth (and, obviously, the prowess of its top players.)

Which Game to Choose

The choice is actually plain: MLBB is your ideal match if you favor faster gameplay, accessible controls, and a spirited, community-driven experience.

Otherwise, with strategic depth, immersive visuals, and a polished experience with superhero crossovers, Arena of Valor is the pick.

What are the Similarities and Features of Both Games? 

AoV shares common ground with other polished MOBAs like League of Legends: Wild Rift and Heroes of the Storm in several key ways:

• Strategic Depth: Like Wild Rift, AoV emphasizes teamwork and objective control, requiring careful planning for epic monster kills and turret sieges.
• Arcana System: Similar to Wild Rift’s runes, AoV’s Arcana system provides deep customization options for dedicated players.
• Immersive Graphics: AoV’s high-definition visuals and smooth animations rival Wild Rift’s aesthetics, delivering a premium gaming experience.
• Licensed Crossovers: Following Fortnite-style collaborations’ footsteps, AoV integrates pop culture icons such as DC superheroes, adding a unique flair to its roster.

AoV Subreddit

MLBB stands alongside games like Vainglory and Heroes Evolved in its approach to fast-paced, accessible gameplay:

• Casual-Friendly Design: Like Vainglory, MLBB features simple controls and forgiving mechanics, making it highly accessible to newcomers.
• Emblem System: Similar to Vainglory’s talent upgrades, MLBB’s Emblem system allows casual customization for minor stat boosts without overwhelming complexity.
• Quick Matches: MLBB, like Heroes Evolved, caters to players looking for shorter matches, focusing on action-packed gameplay rather than drawn-out strategy.
• Vibrant Community: MLBB mirrors Vainglory’s once-thriving community with a massive player base, fostering global tournaments and fan engagement.

MLBB subreddit