Online gaming and iGaming are popular pastimes in New Zealand, but with such a diverse variety of games, it can be a fascinating exercise to see which games are the most popular with players in the country.
The 10 most popular online games range from mobile games to multiplayer, casino games to strategy, and everything in between.
1. Block Blast: Top Online Mobile Game
Mobile gaming has become dominant in the online gaming world, and Block Blast is one of the top choices for Kiwi mobile gamers. This game is highly addictive thanks to the testing puzzles that require solving. It perfectly combines mental stimulation and fun.The objective of Block Blast is to clear lines of blocks by arranging them in rows or columns, similar to classic Tetris but with a modern twist. The concept is simple, but it can quickly become challenging. When playing online, players can compete with friends for extra excitement.
2. Grand Theft Auto Online: Top Online PC and Console Game
Grant Theft Auto (GTA) Online is a major title in the online gaming world, and New Zealand players are no exception when it comes to the overwhelming appeal of this game.
The multiplayer offering of the already-legendary GTA series offers an open-world experience where players can compete with each other or team up to cause total chaos. Whether you want to pull off the ultimate heist with your friends, customise cars or simply explore Los Santos, GTA Online provides endless hours of engagement.
The game is frequently updated with new content that keeps pulling players back.
3. Online Pokies (Slots)
Online pokies are a very popular gaming experience in New Zealand for fans of iGaming. Online pokies in NZ have a wide variety of themes, from ancient Greece in Gates of Olympus to fishing with Big Bass Bonanza. Players will always enjoy the excitement of spinning reels to hopefully win big.
Many online casinos in New Zealand offer a wide selection of slot games, each with unique features like free spins, bonus rounds, and major jackpots. Whether just a casual pastime or as part of a wider gaming experience, online slots appeal to players who enjoy chance-based games.
4. Elder Scrolls Online
For fans of role-playing games (RPGs), Elder Scrolls Online has carved out a massive player base in New Zealand. This online version of the iconic Elder Scrolls series (featuring Skyrim, Oblivion and Morrowind) allows players to explore the vast world of Tamriel with their friends.
Similar to offline Elder Scroll games, players can partake in epic quests, explore caves and dungeons and fight dragons (with the Dragonhold DLC). With the online version, there is also player-versus-player combat not found in the original games.
New Zealand players appreciate the deep lore of the game, combined with stunning graphics and frequent updates. From crafting your own weapons to starting an alliance war, Elder Scrolls Online provides an engaging online experience that keeps players coming back.
5. Fortnite
No list of the top online games is complete without Fortnite. This battle royale gaming sensation has captured the attention of millions of novice and pro gamers across the globe, and there are thousands of dedicated players in New Zealand too.
Fortnite combines intense combat with survival mechanics, as 100 players compete to be the last man (or woman) standing. It is a cross-platform game, allowing PC, console and mobile players to all participate.
What makes Fortnite especially appealing to many is that the game is always changing and evolving thanks to limited-time events and collaborations with famous people and pop-culture icons.
6. Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree
Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree is an expansion of the critically acclaimed RPG Elden Ring, developed by FromSoftware. This game features challenging gameplay, deep lore, and a realistic-looking open-world design. It has been able to captivate even the most hardcore gamers.
The Shadow of Erdtree builds on the base game by introducing even more areas to explore, stronger bosses to defeat, and many more mysteries to uncover. It is a dark fantasy game that requires plenty of patience, skill and strategy, making it a favourite among gamers looking for a truly immersive game.
7. Rocket League
Ever wanted to play a game that combines football and cars? Well, Rocket League does exactly that, allowing players to drive rocket-powered vehicles while playing a crazy version of football as a team.
Rocket League requires teamwork and quick thinking, as players control cars that can jump, flip, and fly through the air in an attempt to score goals.
The gameplay has several models, from 3v3 casual matches to internationally ranked games. It appeals to both casual gamers and those who play with a more serious edge.
8. Mario Kart 8: Deluxe
Mario Kart 8: Deluxe is another favourite among racing fans in New Zealand. It is a colourful, loud, and highly entertaining game that combines the classic Mario characters with really chaotic racing.
Mario Kart is available on Nintendo Switch and is a top choice for solo players and those looking to challenge friends and strangers online. Grab power-ups, disadvantage your fellow racers and do everything in your power to gain the upper hand.
This game has broad appeal and can be played by players of all ages.
9. Call of Duty: Warzone
Fans of first-person shooter (FPS) games find Call of Duty: Warzone a top choice. This battle royale game pits up to 150 players against one another on a large map, and the main goal is to be the last squad standing.
The game offers tactical depth and fast-paced combat. It often features new updates, new gear and weapons and new modes to make sure the gaming experience remains fresh.
Warzone also integrates with other Call of Duty titles, allowing a seamless gaming experience across the entire franchise. Its continuous popularity in NZ is a testament to the international reach of this online shooter game.
10. Minecraft
Minecraft continues to be one of the most popular online games in New Zealand and the rest of the world, especially among younger gamers.
This sandbox game allows players to build structures, explore, and survive in blocky worlds. Players can choose to go at it alone or enter multiplayer mode and team up with other players to survive and thrive.
Whether crafting elaborate structures (like the entire Westeros from Game of Thrones), heading off on grand adventures, or simply enjoying a basic life on your own little farm, Minecraft offers endless opportunities.
The game’s simplicity, combined with the ability to be incredibly creative, makes it a lasting favourite for Kiwi gamers.
Wrapping Up
From mobile games like Block Blast to immersive RPGs like Elder Scrolls Online, and even the excitement of online slots, the online gaming landscape in New Zealand is incredibly diverse.
The 10 games listed above show just a small sliver of what is currently trending in the country, reflecting both local preferences and global trends. Whether you’re a casual gamer or a dedicated player, there’s something for everyone in the online gaming scene.