Honor of Kings adopts global ban&pick format, Phillipines invitational next

2024 has been a landmark year for Honor of Kings following its global release, and 2025 promises to be even more exciting with new esports developments. A highlight of the upcoming year is the inaugural invitational series in the Philippines, scheduled from February 21st to March 1st. This event marks a significant expansion of the game's competitive scene. However, the most groundbreaking change for the season three invitational and all future tournaments is the introduction of a global ban&pick format.

What exactly is ban&pick? It's a strategic element that adds depth to competitive play. Once a hero is chosen and used by a player in a match, that hero is then banned for the rest of the tournament for their team, but not for their opponents. This rule challenges players to diversify their hero pool and strategize around their team's selections, which can be a game-changer in tournaments.

For fans of MOBAs, the ban&pick system is familiar and exciting. It's a system that's been successfully implemented in other games like League of Legends and Rainbow Six Siege, albeit with pre-agreed bans. Honor of Kings' approach, however, places the decision-making power in the hands of individual players, emphasizing team coordination and strategic planning. Players must now consider whether to deploy their mastered heroes early for quick wins or save them for crucial later matches.

This innovation is expected to draw even more attention to Honor of Kings' esports scene, captivating both seasoned players and new audiences with its dynamic gameplay and strategic depth. Whether you're a fan of watching top-tier MOBA action or a player looking to dive into competitive gaming, Honor of Kings in 2025 is set to offer an electrifying experience.