Moonton Games has introduced a formal integrity framework for its mobile esports game Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) in collaboration with the Esports Integrity Commission (ESIC). Any third-party tournament organizer wishing to host an official MLBB competition must now incorporate ESIC’s integrity protections into their competition documentation and operational processes.
In 2024, Moonton and ESIC first joined forces, with Moonton becoming ESIC’s inaugural publisher member. ESIC’s CEO, Stephen Hanna, explained that the framework should not be seen as a one-size-fits-all model for all publishers to adopt uniformly.
“Different publishers have unique ecosystems, tournament structures, regulatory priorities, operational capabilities, and internal policies,” he stated. “ESIC aims to make its standards, expertise, and infrastructure accessible so that publishers and other stakeholders can utilize them as they see fit.”
Under this framework, licensed MLBB tournament organizers must ensure that all participants acknowledge and adhere to the ESIC Code of Conduct and related integrity policies. This also entails that approved organizers must respect any applicable ESIC sanctions, suspensions, and disciplinary actions.
These measures encompass ESIC’s anti-doping protocols, a rarity in esports. Hanna mentioned that any implementation of anti-doping measures would be based on Moonton Games’ requirements and discretion.
“The goal is not just to have policies on paper but to establish a practical and credible framework for implementing anti-doping measures in a manner that is proportionate, consistent, and in line with recognized integrity standards,” he elaborated.
MLBB, a popular mobile game in Asia, has been featured in all four Southeast Asian Games esports competitions and will debut at the Asian Games this year. Regarding its inclusion in Olympic-sanctioned multi-sports events within the integrity framework, Hanna noted that it would depend on the event’s structure, governance, and the approach of the rights holder and organizer.
“As the game gains prominence in competitive settings, it is crucial for participants, organizers, and stakeholders to understand clear integrity expectations and have reliable infrastructure to support them,” he emphasized.
These principles will also apply to the Esports World Cup (EWC) and other international competitions. MLBB will participate in a $3 million prize pool Mid Season Cup in this year’s EWC, marking it as an official stop in its international circuit. MLBB is also slated to appear in the Esports Nations Cup later this year.
“Initiatives like the Esports World Cup show a growing emphasis on integrity governance around the game,” Hanna remarked. “It illustrates Moonton Games’ proactive approach to integrity and its willingness to provide tournament organizers with established standards and compliance guidance.”