Garena Free City Pre-Registration Opens in SEA, Middle East, Africa

Garena Free City is now open for pre-registration on both iOS and Android platforms, with availability currently extended to players in the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Africa. But as another open-world action title entering a crowded market, can it truly carve out its own identity?

As the latest addition to Garena’s diverse portfolio of games, Free City aims to make waves with its ambitious blend of urban exploration, character customization, and chaotic gameplay. If you've been eagerly awaiting a new entry in a certain iconic crime-driven franchise, this might just serve as an intriguing stopgap.

Let’s get straight to the point—yes, this game leans heavily into the Grand Theft Auto style of open-world mayhem, and it's slated for release on June 30th. Whether that excites or concerns you depends entirely on your perspective. At first glance, it might seem like yet another GTA-inspired mobile clone, but beneath the surface, there are elements worth paying attention to.

One standout feature is its detailed character creation system, which allows players to tweak facial features and appearances with surprising depth—almost reminiscent of The Sims. The game also doesn’t aim for realism like its more grounded counterparts; instead, it embraces over-the-top visuals, including deployable cover systems and even summonable power-ups. Oh, and did we mention giant robots?

Bold & Brash Gameplay
There’s no denying that Free City borrows liberally from the energy of titles like Grand Theft Auto Online. While some aspects feel derivative, the game’s exaggerated flair and unpredictable mechanics do manage to grab attention. That said, this is also where it stumbles slightly—it doesn't fully commit to being something truly unique.

Timing-wise, Garena might be entering the arena at a competitive moment. With Ananta—an upcoming open-world title boasting expansive environments and wild side missions—also on the horizon, Free City faces stiff competition. Ananta appears to push the boundaries even further, offering a more stylized and immersive experience. Plus, while its anime-inspired visuals may not appeal to everyone, they help it stand apart.

In contrast, Free City seems hesitant to fully embrace its differences, which could be its biggest drawback. Still, for fans of action-packed mobile worlds and customizable avatars, it may offer enough novelty to warrant a closer look.

Want to stay ahead of the curve and discover more upcoming releases? Be sure to check out Catherine’s regular Ahead of the Game column, where she highlights the most anticipated mobile titles launching soon—so you can jump in right away.