Honor of Kings Goes Global with Ban&Pick Format

Honor of Kings Unveils Major Esports Plans for 2025

Following its successful global launch in 2024, Honor of Kings is making significant strides in the esports arena for 2025. Key announcements include a Philippines invitational—a first for the game—running from February 21st to March 1st, and, most notably, the global adoption of a ban & pick format for Season Three and all future tournaments.

What is Ban & Pick?

Ban & pick simplifies to this: 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 adds a strategic layer, impacting team composition and player choices.

A Game Changer for Strategy

This system significantly alters the competitive landscape. Many MOBA players specialize in a limited roster of heroes. The ban & pick format forces teams to adapt, consider team synergy, and make crucial decisions about hero selection throughout the tournament. It adds a new level of excitement and unpredictability.

A Proven Strategy

While Honor of Kings isn't 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 uniquely places the selection burden on individual players, fostering greater teamwork and strategic depth. The decision of whether to prioritize a team-beneficial hero or a personal main will add a new layer of excitement for both players and viewers. This innovative approach promises to elevate the competitive scene and draw in a broader audience.