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 2025. Key announcements include a debut 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.

This global rollout of the ban & pick system marks a significant shift for the game. For those unfamiliar, ban & pick means that once a hero is selected by a team in a match, that hero is ineligible for use by that team for the remainder of the tournament. This adds a strategic layer, forcing teams to carefully consider their hero choices and team composition.

The impact on gameplay is substantial. Many players specialize in a limited roster of mastered heroes. The ban & pick system necessitates greater team coordination and adaptability, potentially leading to more diverse gameplay and exciting strategic decisions. Will players prioritize familiar heroes or opt for strategic choices based on team needs?

A Strategic Shift

While not the first MOBA to utilize a ban & pick system (games like League of Legends and Rainbow Six Siege employ similar mechanics), Honor of Kings' implementation distinguishes itself by placing the selection directly in the hands of individual players. This intensifies the pressure on team cohesion and strategic thinking. The decision-making process becomes a dynamic interplay between individual mastery and overall team strategy. This innovative approach is likely to enhance the viewing experience and attract a wider audience to Honor of Kings esports.