Unity is a powerful game development platform that enables creators to build immersive video games across various platforms. As a leading game engine, Unity holds a significant market share, with approximately 38% of game developers using it as their primary engine.
In this post, I’ll explore some standout games made with Unity, showing how this engine powers everything from indie hits to major releases. Unity’s flexibility has made it a go-to tool for developers of all sizes, and you’ve probably enjoyed many Unity-built games without even realizing it. Let’s look at some notable examples that showcase what this technology can do.
Top Games Made with Unity Across Different Genres
Top games made with Unity span multiple genres, showcasing the engine’s versatility. From popular titles to critically acclaimed ones, the Unity game engine has produced some of the best games, demonstrating its capability across various styles.
Mobile Games Made with Unity
Unity has been instrumental in creating some of the most engaging mobile games across various genres, including 2D games and complex AR experiences. Here are some notable examples:
Pokémon GO
Developed and published by Niantic in collaboration with Nintendo, which revolutionized location-based gaming. Its innovative use of augmented reality, inviting players to explore the real world to catch their favorite Pokemon has encouraged physical activity and community engagement, making it a cultural phenomenon.
Platforms to play: iOS, Android
Genshin Impact
A visually stunning open-world, action role game available on mobile platforms. It features an anime-style environment and an action-based battle system, offering a rich storyline and immersive gameplay
Platforms to play: PC, iOS, Android, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox Series X/S
Monument Valley
known for its visually stunning puzzles and innovative 2D game design. Developed by Ustwo, it has won numerous awards for its unique art style and challenging gameplay, making it a standout title in the puzzle genre.
Platforms to play: iOS, Android, PC (via Steam)
Hearthstone
A digital collectible card game that showcases Unity’s versatility. It offers a variety of gameplay modes, including casual and ranked matches, and has become a popular esport with regular updates and expansions
Platforms to play: PC, iOS, Android.
Call of Duty Mobile
A high-quality first-person shooter experience developed as a mobile game using Unity. It features console-quality graphics and a variety of multiplayer modes, including battle royale and team deathmatch, making it a hit among fans of the franchise.
Platforms to play: iOS, Android.
Indie Games That Showcase Unity’s Potential
Unity has empowered indie developers to create innovative and engaging indie games across various genres. Here are some notable examples:
Among Us
Developed by Studio Innersloth, is a 2018 online multiplayer social deduction game that became viral during the COVID-19 pandemic. Players are assigned roles as either Crewmates or Impostors on a spaceship, with the goal of completing tasks or sabotaging the crew. Initially released to little mainstream attention, it gained massive popularity in 2020 and won several awards, including the Breakthrough Award at the Golden Joystick Awards 2020.
Platforms to play: PC, iOS, Android, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4/5, Xbox One/Series X/S
Untitled Goose Game
Developed by House House, is an indie puzzle stealth game where players control a mischievous goose causing trouble in an English village. The game was inspired by Super Mario 64 and the Hitman series, and it received critical acclaim for its humor and gameplay, winning the D.I.C.E. Award for Game of the Year.
Platforms to play: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.
Cuphead
Developed by Studio MDHR, is a challenging side-scroller with a unique 1930s cartoon art style. It was released in 2017 after seven years of development and features hand-drawn animations. The game received widespread critical acclaim for its visuals and challenging gameplay.
Platforms to play: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.
Hollow Knight
Developed by Team Cherry, is a 2D Metroidvania game released in 2017. It features a vast underground world with atmospheric environments and challenging gameplay. The game was well-received for its art style, music, and worldbuilding, selling over 2.8 million copies by February 2019.
Platforms to play: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.
Ori and the Blind Forest
Developed by Moon Studios, is a beautifully designed platform-adventure game released in 2015. It features stunning visuals and a compelling narrative, with gameplay inspired by Metroid and Rayman. The game received critical acclaim for its art direction and storytelling, winning several awards including Best Art Direction at the 19th Annual D.I.C.E. Awards.
Platforms to play: PC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
AAA and Console Titles Built with Unity
Unity’s capabilities extend to AAA and console games, allowing developers to create immersive 3D games across various platforms. Here are some notable titles:
Escape from Tarkov
Developed by Battlestate Games, is a multiplayer tactical first-person shooter with survival elements. It was first released in beta in 2017 and features realistic gameplay and a strong focus on survival mechanics. Players must navigate through maps filled with other players and AI-controlled enemies to escape with valuable loot.
Platforms to play: PC
Rust
Developed by Facepunch Studios, is a popular survival game that challenges players to build shelters, gather resources, and fend off hostile players and creatures. Initially released in early access in 2013, it has become known for its complex gameplay mechanics and community-driven content.
Platforms to play: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One.
Cities Skylines
Developed by Colossal Order, is a city-building simulation game released in 2015. It offers a comprehensive urban planning experience, allowing players to design and manage their own cities. The game is praised for its depth and realism, providing a strong alternative to other city-building titles.
Platforms to play: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch.
Subnautica
Developed by Unknown Worlds Entertainment, is an underwater survival game released in 2018. Players explore an alien ocean, building habitats and uncovering the secrets of the planet. The game features stunning open-world environments and a rich narrative, with a strong focus on exploration and discovery.
Platforms to play: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch.
Valheim
Developed by Iron Gate Studio, is a survival sandbox game released in early access in 2021. Players take on the role of Viking warriors exploring a procedurally generated world, crafting tools, and battling enemies to reach Valhalla. The game has achieved significant commercial success, selling over 10 million copies by July 2022.
Platforms to play: PC
VR/AR Games Pushing Boundaries
Unity’s virtual reality (VR) capabilities have enabled developers to create immersive and interactive experiences. Here are some notable examples:
Beat Saber
Developed by Beat Games, is a rhythm game that excels in motion-controlled gaming with its intuitive design and stunning visuals. Released in early access in 2018, it became a hit for its engaging gameplay and extensive song library. The game won several awards, including the Game Developers Choice Award for Best VR/AR Game.
Platforms to play: PC (VR), PlayStation VR, Oculus Quest.
Half-Life: Alyx components
Utilized Unity for certain aspects of its VR experience, showcasing the engine’s adaptability. While not fully built with Unity, it demonstrates how Unity can be integrated into complex VR projects. The game itself is a critically acclaimed VR title set in the Half-Life universe.
Platforms to play: PC (VR).
VRCha
Developed by VRChat, Inc., is a social platform that allows users to interact in virtual environments using user-created avatars and worlds. Initially released in 2014, it supports plenty of user-generated content and is available on multiple VR platforms. VRChat allows users to create and share their own content using Unity tools.
Platforms to play: PC (VR), Oculus Quest.
Job Simulator
Developed by Owlchemy Labs, is a humorous game that demonstrates Unity’s ability to handle complex VR interactions. Players take on the role of an office worker, chef, or mechanic, completing tasks in a satirical take on modern work life. The game is known for its comedic gameplay and intuitive controls.
Platforms to play: PC (VR), PlayStation VR, Oculus Quest.
Moss
Developed by Polyarc, is a charming VR adventure that highlights Unity’s capability to create immersive storytelling experiences. Players guide a small mouse through a fantasy world, solving puzzles and battling enemies. The game is praised for its beautiful environments and fun dynamics.
Platforms to play: PC (VR), PlayStation VR, Oculus Quest.
Games Made with Unity: Final Thoughts
Unity continues to be a powerhouse in game development because it’s so versatile and easy to use. The Unity engine lets developers create all sorts of games, from indie darlings to big-budget blockbusters. Plus, it supports video games on multiple platforms, making it a go-to choice for many creators.
The gaming world keeps evolving, and Unity keeps growing with it, making using the Unity engine a smart move for developers. Its features and supportive community make it perfect for crafting engaging games. With its fingerprints on so many successful titles, Unity is a top choice for driving creativity and innovation in game development.
