Did Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) Copy League of Legends?
The debate about Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) copying League of Legends has been a topic of discussion among gamers and fans of both games for a long time. Some argue that MLBB borrowed heavily from LoL, while others claim that the similarities are just a coincidence. In this article, we’ll delve into the facts and provide a direct answer to this question.
Similarities between MLBB and LoL
Before we get into the direct answer, let’s take a look at some of the similarities between MLBB and LoL:
- MOBA genre: Both games belong to the multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) genre, where players control characters with unique abilities and fight against an enemy team.
- Lane-based gameplay: Both games feature a lane-based system, where players can choose to take lanes to farm gold and experience.
- Hero-based combat: Both games have a large roster of playable heroes, each with their own set of abilities and playstyles.
- Team fights: Both games feature team fights, where two teams clash in a large arena and fight to destroy the enemy base.
**Design and Gameplay Similarities**
Here are some specific design and gameplay similarities between MLBB and LoL:
- Hero design: Both games have heroes with unique designs, abilities, and playstyles. MLBB heroes, such as Saber, Eudora, and Zhiqian, have striking similarities to LoL champions like Ashe, Lux, and Akali.
- Ability mechanics: Both games feature abilities with similar mechanics, such as abilities that deal damage, heal, or slow down enemies.
- Item systems: Both games have item systems where players can purchase items to enhance their heroes’ abilities.
Did MLBB copy LoL?
While MLBB and LoL share some similarities, it’s important to note that game development is a complex process that involves research, experimentation, and iteration. Many MOBA games, including MLBB and LoL, have borrowed elements from other games in the genre.
MLBB’s Early Development
According to an interview with Wang Yu, the CEO of Moonton, the developer of MLBB, the game was initially developed in 2014 as a mobile MOBA inspired by PC MOBAs, including LoL. Wang Yu mentioned that the team studied LoL and other PC MOBAs to create a mobile version that would be similar but not identical.
Game Mechanics and Inspiration
MLBB’s game mechanics, such as the lane-based system and hero abilities, are inspired by LoL and other PC MOBAs. However, the team at Moonton also experimented with new mechanics and ideas to differentiate MLBB from its PC counterparts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while MLBB shares some similarities with LoL, it’s not a direct copy. The game’s development was influenced by LoL and other PC MOBAs, but the team at Moonton also added its own twists and innovations to create a unique gaming experience.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Did Moonton, the developer of MLBB, have any experience with MOBA game development before creating MLBB?
A: Yes, the team at Moonton had experience with MOBA game development before creating MLBB. Wang Yu, the CEO of Moonton, worked on a MOBA game called Heroes of Order & Chaos, which was released in 2012.
Q: Did MLBB copy LoL’s heroes and abilities?
A: No, MLBB did not copy LoL’s heroes and abilities. While some MLBB heroes have similar abilities to LoL champions, the abilities themselves are not identical.
Q: Did LoL inspire MLBB’s game mechanics?
A: Yes, LoL inspired MLBB’s game mechanics, such as the lane-based system and hero abilities. However, the team at Moonton also experimented with new mechanics and ideas to differentiate MLBB from its PC counterpart.
Q: Is MLBB a better game than LoL?
A: It’s subjective to determine which game is better. Both games have their strengths and weaknesses, and players may prefer one game over the other based on their personal preferences.
Q: Can I play MLBB on my PC?
A: No, MLBB is a mobile-only game and can only be played on mobile devices.
Q: Can I play LoL on my mobile device?
A: Yes, LoL has a mobile version called League of Legends: Wild Rift, which is available for Android and iOS devices.
Q: Is MLBB popular in Asia?
A: Yes, MLBB is extremely popular in Asia, particularly in Southeast Asia and China. The game has a large player base in these regions and is considered one of the most popular mobile MOBAs.
Q: Is MLBB considered an esport?
A: Yes, MLBB is considered an esport and has a professional tournament circuit. The game has a number of professional teams and players who compete in tournaments and leagues around the world.
Here’s a table summarizing the similarities and differences between MLBB and LoL:
| Feature | MLBB | LoL |
|---|---|---|
| Genre | MOBA | MOBA |
| Gameplay | Lane-based, hero-based combat | Lane-based, hero-based combat |
| Hero design | Unique designs, abilities | Unique designs, abilities |
| Ability mechanics | Abilities that deal damage, heal, or slow down enemies | Abilities that deal damage, heal, or slow down enemies |
| Item systems | Items that enhance hero abilities | Items that enhance hero abilities |
| Platform | Mobile-only | PC and mobile |
In conclusion, while MLBB shares some similarities with LoL, it’s not a direct copy. The game’s development was influenced by LoL and other PC MOBAs, but the team at Moonton also added its own twists and innovations to create a unique gaming experience.