Is MLBB Coming Back? Indian Gamers Keep the Flame Alive Despite the Ban
It’s been nearly five years since Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) disappeared from Indian app stores. On June 29, 2020, the Indian government banned the popular MOBA title as part of a broader move against Chinese-linked apps. For many gamers, it felt like the end of an era.
But here’s the thing — the community never really let go.
Even with the ban in place, Indian esports fans have found creative ways to keep the spirit of MLBB alive. A game called Moba Legends: 5v5! widely seen as a rebranded version of MLBB has popped up on the Play Store and is quickly gaining traction. It’s not exactly the original, but for thousands of players, it offers a familiar battlefield and a way to stay connected to the game they love.
Offline, the passion is just as strong. Esports organizers in India, especially in the Northeast, have been hosting unofficial tournaments to give players a platform. One standout event was the Moba Legends: 5v5! North East Cup 2024, which saw impressive participation. The finals, held in Guwahati, brought the hype back and reminded everyone just how alive the scene still is.
As for the official MLBB? There’s been radio silence from Moonton, the developer behind the game. So far, there’s no confirmed dialogue with Indian authorities which means a full return remains uncertain. But that hasn’t stopped the community from hoping (and grinding).
In a world where mobile esports is only getting bigger, the demand for MLBB in India hasn’t gone away. Whether it returns through the front door or keeps thriving under a new name, one thing’s clear: Indian gamers aren’t done with it yet.
