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 tournament 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 simplifies the competitive landscape. Once a hero is selected by a team in a match, that hero is ineligible for use by that same team for the remainder of the tournament. This applies only to the team that initially used the hero; opponents remain unaffected.

This system adds a layer of strategic depth. Many MOBA players specialize in a limited roster of characters. The ban & pick format forces teams to consider team synergy and individual player expertise when choosing heroes, adding a compelling new dimension to the game.

A Strategic Shift

The popularity of ban & pick in MOBAs is undeniable. While not a novel concept (games like League of Legends and Rainbow Six Siege utilize similar mechanics), Honor of Kings' implementation uniquely places the decision-making power in the hands of individual players. This emphasizes team coordination and strategic thinking. The choice becomes a balancing act: prioritize a hero known to be effective, or select a player's main character, potentially impacting early game dominance or reserving it for later rounds. This innovative approach promises to elevate the excitement and strategic complexity of Honor of Kings esports, attracting new viewers and enhancing the overall viewing experience.