The Ban: What We Know So Far
A Growing List of Prohibited Apps
Impact on Gamers and Developers
Gamers' Response: Outrage and Adaptation
The Broader Picture
What's Next for US Gamers?
Following the recent ban of TikTok in the United States, American gamers are facing more bad news. Popular games like Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), Mobile Legends: Adventure, Watcher of Realms, One Punch Man: The Strongest, and Marvel Snap are now prohibited in the country. This marks a significant move against digital entertainment, leading to fresh debates about the wider impact on the gaming community.
The Ban: What We Know So Far
The US government’s decision to block these games comes amid growing concerns over data security and alleged ties between their parent companies and the Chinese government. MOONTON Games, the publisher of MLBB, is a subsidiary of ByteDance, the same company behind TikTok, and Nuverse is also linked to Chinese investors. With this decision, officials aim to protect national security and prevent potential misuse of user data.
For millions of players, this means losing access to games they’ve spent years playing. These games have become a staple in the daily lives of many, especially MLBB, a beloved MOBA, and Marvel Snap, a top-rated digital card game. The developers have expressed their commitment to finding ways to bring these titles back, though it's uncertain when or how.
💡 Read More: TikTok Banned in the U.S.: What It Means
A Growing List of Prohibited Apps
This move adds to an increasing number of apps facing bans in the US. Platforms like WeChat and PUBG Mobile have also faced restrictions due to their ties to China, although some bans have been eased. This reflects the ongoing tension between the US and China, particularly in the tech and entertainment sectors.
Amid the TikTok ban in the U.S., with both Apple and Google removing the app from their respective stores to comply with a law requiring ByteDance to sell the social platform or face an effective nationwide ban, an unexpected development has occurred, as the US bans MLBB, Marvel Snap, and several other games, which are no longer available in the country.
Impact on Gamers and Developers
The ban on MLBB and Marvel Snap has dealt a heavy blow to gamers, especially those who’ve invested time, money, and effort into these titles. Competitive players, including streamers and eSports athletes, face career disruptions as tournaments and online communities come to a standstill.
The developers and publishers are also feeling the impact. MOONTON Games and Nuverse now face challenges in retaining a global player base and sustaining revenue streams. Meanwhile, industry experts speculate on whether other popular games with Chinese ties, such as Genshin Impact or Honkai: Star Rail, might be next in line.
Gamers' Response: Outrage and Adaptation
The gaming community has responded with a mix of frustration and defiance. Social media platforms are abuzz with hashtags like #SaveMLBB and #UnbanMarvelSnap, as players voice their displeasure. Some have turned to VPNs to bypass the restrictions, echoing similar tactics used by TikTok fans in the aftermath of its ban.
Notably, VPN such as MrGhost VPN have emerged as a potential solution for gamers seeking to regain access to these banned games. By masking their IP addresses and routing connections through other countries, players can potentially bypass the restrictions and continue enjoying their favorite titles.
January 21, 2025: Both Marvel Snap and MLBB have been reinstated in US app stores, but ByteDance has withdrawn several of its games, including:
● Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MOONTON Games)
● Mobile Legends: Adventure (MOONTON Games)
● Watcher of Realms (MOONTON Games)
● One Punch Man: The Strongest (MOONTON Games)
● Marvel Snap (Nuverse)
● Land of Empires: Immortal (Nuverse)
● Land of Empires: Dice Hero (Nuverse)
● Mission EVO (Nuverse)
The company stated the reason for the ban as “circumstances beyond our control” and expressed regret over the temporary suspension.
The Broader Picture
As the US continues to tighten its stance on apps and games with Chinese affiliations, the debate surrounding digital sovereignty, privacy, and global collaboration intensifies. Critics argue that these bans stifle creativity and innovation in the gaming industry, while supporters contend that they are necessary precautions in an era of increasing cyber threats.
What's Next for US Gamers?
As it stands, affected gamers will have to find new games to play or hope for a resolution that could lift these restrictions. Developers may have to rethink their strategies, potentially distancing themselves from contentious investors or enhancing transparency to regain trust.
Although the future is uncertain, there's still hope. Similar to MLBB in India, these games might return to the US in a localized version. Reports suggest President Trump is working on a plan to save TikTok with the help of his incoming national security advisor.
In the end, the intersection of gaming and geopolitics will continue to shape the digital landscape, and gamers and creators will need to adapt to the ever-evolving reality.
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