Honor of Kings Unveils Major Esports Plans for 2025

Following its global launch, Honor of Kings is making waves in 2025. Key announcements include a first-ever invitational tournament in the Philippines (February 21st - March 1st) and, most significantly, the global adoption of a ban & pick format for Season Three and all future tournaments.

This global rollout of ban & pick represents a significant shift for the game. For the uninitiated, ban & pick means that once a hero is selected by a team in a match, that hero is unavailable to that team for the remainder of the tournament. This adds a layer of strategic depth, forcing teams to adapt and potentially sacrifice their preferred heroes for the greater good.

The impact on gameplay is considerable. Many players specialize in a limited roster of heroes, creating a fascinating dynamic. The decision to utilize a well-suited but less-mastered hero versus a personal favorite will significantly impact team strategy and overall gameplay.

A Strategic Shift

The ban & pick system is not new to the MOBA genre; games like League of Legends utilize similar mechanics. However, Honor of Kings' implementation differs by placing the selection directly in the hands of individual players, emphasizing team coordination and strategic decision-making. This change promises to elevate the competitive landscape and make Honor of Kings esports even more captivating for viewers. The choice between team synergy and individual preference will be a key factor in determining tournament outcomes.