Have you ever confused picking up game to play? There is a lot of options, but you couldn’t understand them all. Game usually comes up with labels attached on it. But the thing is, most of them have specific terms that maybe confusing. What exactly is an RPG? What does MOBA mean? Do these terms actually carry specific meanings, or are they just labels?
Gaming is more than just entertainment, it is also a form of storytelling and interaction, much like movies or books. And just like them, games are divided into genres. These game genres help categorize games based on their core elements, playstyle, and experience they deliver. Whether it’s action, strategy, or adventure, each genre has its own style and audience.
Understanding game genres makes you easier to find the game matches your liking. Thus, in this article, Tombol Start will help you figuring out 5 of the most well-known genres in gaming and also give you recommendations of Indonesian games to the list. By breaking them down into simple explanations with examples, you’ll get a clearer picture of how each genre works and why they continue to attract players around the world.
Role Playing Game (RPG)
Nowadays, Role Playing Games (RPGs) are widely played by the majority of gamers worldwide. RPG is a genre that basically makes us play a role as characters in a fictional setting. Usually involving us diving into the game’s lore, story quests, and progression. Mode of the genre appears both in singleplayer for us to enjoy the story alone or multiplayer to play with friends.
Core features of RPGs often include certain elements. Leveling and improving character’s stats, such as, strength, intelligence, agility, and many more. involving our decision to the story with dialogue choices gameplay. Freedom of character customization. Elements like character’s class, equipment, and appearance.
If you are interested in this genre, we have discussed several Indonesian locally made games that come up with role-playing themes on its platform, such as:
Epic Conquest X is the latest project of Gaco Games that adopts the same vibes as other infamous games like Genshin Impact, Wuthering Waves, or Zenless Zone Zero.
Nusakana by Studio Namaapa with RPG Maker VX Ace, this 2015 release offers a non-linear tropical adventure filled with exploration, romance, and secrets.
Eremidia Archivist’s Curse A free-to-play pixel-art RPG that blends fun storytelling with strategic gameplay elements.
Multiplayer Online Battle Arena (MOBA)
If you’ve ever heard people talk about Dota 2, League of Legends, or Mobile Legends, then you already know what a MOBA is. MOBA is a genre that’s all about teamwork, strategy, and fast-paced action. Usually, two teams face off on a map with three lanes equipped with towers, and at the end of the line there is a base to defend, this is the main objective for each team to destroy to be the winner.
Each player controls a unique “hero” or “champion,” equipped with special abilities and roles, whether it’s tanking damage, supporting allies, or dealing massive bursts of power. All of the roles are unique and important. Fill the team with each hero’s role to create a solid team combination.
Indonesian games in this genre, however, are still limited, but doesn’t mean non-existent.
Lokopala by Anantarupa Studios, is the first MOBA game from South-East Asia that brings the spirit of Indonesian local culture into the digital world.
Shooting Games
Shooting games are among the most popular genres in the gaming industry, offering action-packed gameplay that tests both reflexes and tactical thinking. This genre typically revolves around using various weapons to defeat enemies in real-time combat. This genre comes in two main perspectives: First Person and Third Person.
First-Person Shooter (FPS) is where players see the game through the character’s eyes for a more immersive experience. There are also Third-Person Shooter (TPS), where the camera shows the character’s full body and animations during combat. Iconic global titles such as Call of Duty, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and PUBG highlight how versatile and competitive this genre can be.
Indonesian developers have also contributed unique takes on shooting games:
Created by N7T-GAMES, this title transforms childhood nostalgia into a thrilling battlefield, where players command toy soldiers in epic wars against dark forces
Developed by BigDade and Mahamojo, this chaotic futuristic shooter blends Indonesian cultural identity with high-tech combat.
A cyberpunk-inspired shooter set in a dystopian city, featuring laser weapons and intense futuristic warfare.
Survival Horror
This genre thrives on tension, resource management, and psychological thrills that keep players constantly on edge. The main goal is survival, whether against zombies, supernatural entities, or even other players in hostile environments. Scarcity plays a crucial role; limited ammunition, healing items, and safe zones create suspense and force players to think strategically. Classic titles such as Resident Evil and Silent Hill, along with modern hits like The Forest and Sons of the Forest, showcase how survival horror continues to evolve.
Indonesia has also contributed tons of unique horror games that stand out through their cultural roots and narrative depth:
The debut project by 4Happy Studio blends Indonesian ghost lore with puzzle-solving and exploration. Rather than relying solely on supernatural scares, the game focuses on unraveling mysteries and uncovering the truth hidden within the darkness.
Developed by Separuh Interactive, Agni fuses haunting folklore with survival horror mechanics. Set for release in 2026, it promises an emotionally intense experience grounded in mystery and cultural identity, making it one of Southeast Asia’s most anticipated titles.
A narrative-driven horror game that unsettles players through themes of grief, betrayal, and psychological collapse. What begins as a story of friendship quickly spirals into a chilling descent where trust shatters and shadows whisper unsettling truths.
Simulation Games
Simulation games, often called sims, are all about replicating real-life experiences, or even exaggerating them in fun ways. Unlike action-packed shooters or horror titles that push you into survival mode, sims let you step into everyday roles, experiment with scenarios, and live out alternate lives without real-world risks. Think of it as a “what if” playground: what if you managed a city, ran a farm, or even lived someone else’s daily routine?
Globally, some of the most popular sims include The Sims (life simulation), Microsoft Flight Simulator (flying planes with realistic physics), and Farming Simulator (building your farming empire). The appeal is less about defeating enemies and more about exploring systems, creativity, and decision-making.
Indonesia also has its own share of quirky, fun, and relatable simulation games:
Developed by Animesme & Sangnila, this game puts you in the shoes of a human resources officer. You’ll start from the bottom, juggle workplace challenges, climb the corporate ladder, and make tough choices that affect both your career and the people around you.
A lighthearted title that turns Indonesia’s street food culture into a game. Instead of battling monsters, you’re frying tofu, selling it from a truck, and expanding into a restaurant empire. It’s humorous, nostalgic, and a cultural celebration in digital form.
An upcoming game that offers the experience of being a bank teller. It challenges your logic, precision, and decision-making skills in handling money, transactions, and customer demands. All wrapped in a unique simulation concept.
Explore Indonesian Games on This List at Tombol Start
At Tombol Start Media, we’re always bringing you the latest buzz about cool and exciting Indonesian games. From brand-new releases to hidden indie gems, we ensure you stay updated on everything happening in the local gaming scene. We want you to be the first to know when there’s a new game worth checking out.
Don’t forget to drop by our page and join the conversation about your favorite games. That way, you’re not just a reader, but also a part of the growing Indonesian gaming community. Let’s support local developers together and show the world that Indonesian games can stand just as strong as international titles!