Honor of Kings to adopt ban&pick format globally, with upcoming Phillipines invitational scheduled

Honor of Kings Unveils Major Esports Plans for 2025

Following its global launch, Honor of Kings is making significant strides in the esports arena. 2024 has been a landmark year, and 2025 promises even more exciting developments. Key announcements include the inaugural Honor of Kings invitational in the Philippines (February 21st - March 1st) and, most notably, the global adoption of a ban & pick format for Season Three and all future tournaments.

What is Ban & Pick?

The ban & pick system is simpler than it sounds. Once a hero is selected by a team in a match, that hero becomes unavailable to that team for the remainder of the tournament. This restriction applies only to the team that used the hero, not their opponents.

A Game-Changer for Strategy

This system adds a compelling strategic layer. Many MOBA players specialize in a limited roster of heroes. The ban & pick format forces teams to consider both individual player expertise and overall team composition, creating difficult choices. Do you prioritize a hero known to excel in a specific situation, even if a teammate has mastered a different one? Or do you risk using a main character early, potentially sacrificing options later? This new dynamic promises to heighten the excitement and strategic depth of Honor of Kings esports.

A Popular Choice

While Honor of Kings isn't the first MOBA to utilize a ban & pick system (games like League of Legends and even Rainbow Six Siege employ similar mechanics), Honor of Kings' implementation differs significantly. In other games, bans are often pre-determined through team agreement. Honor of Kings' approach places the decision directly in the hands of individual players, emphasizing teamwork and strategic flexibility. This innovative approach is sure to attract new viewers and elevate the competitive landscape.