Synn Store BLOG - Mobile Legends Enters China's Market with a New Name and High Expectations

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), a widely acclaimed multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) game developed by Shanghai Moonton Technology Co., a subsidiary of ByteDance, is set to make its grand debut in China. After receiving the necessary approvals from the National Press and Publication Administration (NPPA), the game is anticipated to capture the attention of millions of gamers in one of the largest gaming markets in the world.

New Name for a New Market

As part of its entry into China, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang will be rebranded as "决胜巅峰" (Jue Sheng Dian Feng), which translates to "The Pinnacle of Decisive Victory." This strategic name change aims to resonate more effectively with Chinese players, emphasizing the game's competitive spirit and focus on victory. The NPPA initially approved the title on March 23, 2023, before officially granting the launch license on April 18, 2023.

Moonton’s Vision for the Chinese Market

In its press release, Moonton expressed enthusiasm for introducing a fresh gaming experience tailored for Chinese players. The company hopes to integrate local organizations into the MLBB global esports ecosystem, fostering a vibrant competitive environment and enhancing player engagement in the region.

Global Presence and Popularity

Since its launch in 2016, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang has amassed a massive following, particularly in Southeast Asia. The game currently operates five major Mobile Legends Professional Leagues (MPL) across countries such as Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Cambodia. It has also experienced significant growth in markets like Turkey, the USA, and Brazil.

With over a billion downloads worldwide and an impressive average of over 100 million monthly active users, MLBB consistently ranks among the top 20 best-selling MOBA mobile games in more than 50 countries. This global success sets a strong precedent as the game prepares to enter the Chinese market.

Anticipation and Buzz Surrounding the Launch

Rumors about MLBB's entry into China began circulating in February 2022 when internal tests were conducted within Moonton. Images of heroes with Mandarin names were leaked online, further fueling excitement among potential players.

Record-Breaking Viewership in Esports

The game's popularity is not limited to casual play; it has also made waves in the esports scene. The M4 World Championship match in January 2023, featuring Blacklist International and RRQ Hoshi, broke viewership records with over 4.2 million fans tuning in. This remarkable achievement positioned it among the top three most-watched global esports tournaments ever, according to Esports Charts.

Looking Ahead

As Mobile Legends: Bang Bang prepares for its launch in China, expectations are high. With its strong global presence, strategic rebranding, and commitment to integrating local esports organizations, MLBB aims to carve a significant niche in the competitive Chinese gaming market. Players can look forward to a dynamic and engaging experience as they embark on their journey in the newly rebranded title, 决胜巅峰.