MLBB International Championship 2022: Recap & Highlights

by Jhon Lennon 57 views

The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) International Championship 2022 (M4 World Championship) was a spectacular event that showcased the highest level of MLBB gameplay. For those of you who missed it, or just want a refresher, let's dive into a comprehensive recap of the tournament, covering everything from the participating teams and format to the nail-biting matches and standout moments.

Tournament Overview

The M4 World Championship took place in Jakarta, Indonesia, from January 1st to January 15th, 2023. This prestigious tournament brought together 16 of the best MLBB teams from around the globe, all vying for the coveted title of World Champion and a share of the substantial prize pool. The tournament was organized by Moonton, the developer of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. The event was held in two venues, the Group Stage at the Bali United Studio and the Knockout Stage at the Tennis Indoor Senayan.

The tournament format was divided into two main stages: the Group Stage and the Knockout Stage. In the Group Stage, the 16 teams were split into four groups of four teams each. They played a single round-robin format, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the Upper Bracket of the Knockout Stage, while the bottom two teams proceeded to the Lower Bracket. This setup ensured that every team had a chance to prove their mettle and that only the strongest contenders would make it to the final stages. The Knockout Stage featured a double-elimination bracket, meaning teams had a second chance to fight their way back after a loss. This format added another layer of excitement and unpredictability to the tournament, as teams battled fiercely to avoid elimination and keep their championship dreams alive. The Grand Final was a best-of-seven (Bo7) series, where the two remaining teams clashed in a final showdown to determine the ultimate champion. This format ensured that the winner truly deserved the title, having demonstrated their skill, strategy, and resilience throughout the tournament.

Participating Teams

The MLBB International Championship 2022 featured a diverse array of teams from various regions, each bringing their unique playstyles and strategies to the competition. Here’s a look at some of the prominent teams that participated:

  • Blacklist International (Philippines): The defending champions from M3, Blacklist International, were highly anticipated to continue their dominance. Known for their disciplined gameplay and innovative strategies, they were a team to watch.
  • ECHO (Philippines): Another strong contender from the Philippines, ECHO showcased exceptional teamwork and individual skill. They were determined to make a deep run in the tournament and challenge for the championship.
  • RRQ Hoshi (Indonesia): Representing the host country, RRQ Hoshi carried the hopes of the Indonesian fans. With a strong roster and home-court advantage, they were expected to perform well.
  • ONIC Esports (Indonesia): Another formidable team from Indonesia, ONIC Esports, displayed a strategic and calculated approach to the game. They aimed to prove their strength on the international stage.
  • RSG Philippines (Philippines): RSG Philippines, another powerhouse from the Philippines, displayed impressive coordination and adaptability. They were a team that could surprise their opponents with their versatility.
  • TODAK (Malaysia): Representing Malaysia, TODAK brought their aggressive and unpredictable playstyle to the tournament. They were known for their ability to disrupt their opponents' strategies and create chaos on the battlefield.
  • Team Haq (Malaysia): Team Haq, the second team from Malaysia, aimed to make a name for themselves on the international stage. They showcased a blend of experience and fresh talent, making them a team to watch out for.
  • Burn x Flash (Cambodia): Burn x Flash, representing Cambodia, brought their unique strategies and determination to the competition. They were eager to prove that they could compete with the best teams in the world.
  • MDH Esports (Vietnam): MDH Esports, representing Vietnam, showcased their passion and dedication to the game. They aimed to make their mark on the international stage and represent their region with pride.
  • Incendio Supremacy (Turkey): Incendio Supremacy, the team from Turkey, brought a different flavor to the tournament with their distinct playstyle. They were determined to show that they could challenge the established powerhouses of MLBB.
  • S11 Gaming Argentina (LATAM): Representing the Latin American region, S11 Gaming Argentina aimed to demonstrate the growing strength of MLBB in their region. They were determined to make a splash in the tournament.
  • The Valley (North America): The Valley, representing North America, brought their strategic and methodical approach to the game. They aimed to show that they could compete with the best teams from around the world.
  • Falcon Esports (Myanmar): Falcon Esports, representing Myanmar, showcased their resilience and determination. They were eager to make a name for themselves on the international stage.
  • Occupy Thrones (MENA): Occupy Thrones represented the MENA (Middle East and North Africa) region, bringing a unique perspective to the tournament. They aimed to demonstrate the growing popularity of MLBB in their region.
  • RRQ Akira (Brazil): RRQ Akira, representing Brazil, brought their passion and skill to the competition. They aimed to make their mark on the international stage and represent their region with pride.
  • Mema OpTic (Laos): Mema OpTic was the first team from Laos to reach the World Championship. They brought pride to their region, battling against the other giants in the MLBB scene.

Each of these teams brought their A-game, making the MLBB International Championship 2022 a thrilling and unpredictable tournament.

Key Matches and Moments

The MLBB International Championship 2022 was filled with thrilling matches and unforgettable moments. Here are some of the key highlights:

  • Group Stage Surprises: The Group Stage saw several unexpected upsets, with some of the favored teams struggling to secure their spot in the upper bracket. These surprises added excitement and demonstrated the competitive nature of the tournament.
  • Blacklist International's Dominance: Despite facing tough competition, Blacklist International showcased their class and experience, dominating their group and making a strong statement early in the tournament.
  • ECHO's Rise: ECHO emerged as a formidable contender, displaying exceptional teamwork and strategic prowess. They quickly became a fan favorite and a team to watch out for.
  • RRQ Hoshi's Home Crowd Advantage: RRQ Hoshi, playing in front of their home crowd, delivered some memorable performances, feeding off the energy of the Indonesian fans and showcasing their talent.
  • The Knockout Stage Battles: The Knockout Stage was filled with intense battles, as teams fought tooth and nail to avoid elimination. These matches were characterized by nail-biting moments, strategic plays, and incredible displays of skill.
  • ECHO vs. Blacklist International Grand Final: The Grand Final between ECHO and Blacklist International was an epic showdown between two of the strongest teams in the world. The match went the distance, with both teams showcasing their resilience and determination. In the end, ECHO emerged victorious, claiming the title of World Champion in a hard-fought series that went to 4-0. The win was historic, as it marked ECHO's first world championship and cemented their place as one of the top MLBB teams in the world.

These key matches and moments contributed to the excitement and drama of the MLBB International Championship 2022, making it a tournament to remember.

Standout Players

The MLBB International Championship 2022 showcased the incredible talent of numerous players. Here are some of the standout performers who left a lasting impression:

  • Bennyqt (ECHO): Known for his exceptional carry skills and game-changing plays, Bennyqt was a crucial part of ECHO's success. His ability to perform under pressure and make critical decisions in crucial moments made him a standout player.
  • Yawi (ECHO): As the roamer for ECHO, Yawi played a pivotal role in controlling the map and enabling his teammates to make plays. His map awareness, strategic rotations, and ability to disrupt the opponent's plans made him an invaluable asset to the team.
  • Edward (Blacklist International): As the EXP Laner, Edward showcased consistent performance and versatility, excelling in both offensive and defensive roles. His ability to adapt to different situations and make impactful contributions made him a key player for Blacklist International.
  • Wise (Blacklist International): As the Jungler, Wise was known for his strategic thinking and ability to control the tempo of the game. His calculated decisions, precise executions, and ability to anticipate his opponent's moves made him a formidable force.

These players, along with many others, showcased their exceptional talent and contributed to the high level of competition at the MLBB International Championship 2022.

Meta and Strategies

The MLBB International Championship 2022 provided valuable insights into the evolving meta and popular strategies in the game. Here are some key observations:

  • Tank Junglers: Tank junglers gained popularity, providing both sustain and crowd control to the team. These heroes were able to initiate fights, protect their teammates, and disrupt the opponent's strategies.
  • Agile Carries: Agile carries with high mobility and damage output remained a staple in many team compositions. These heroes were able to farm efficiently, rotate quickly, and make impactful plays in team fights.
  • Objective Control: Teams prioritized objective control, focusing on securing key objectives such as the Turtle and Lord to gain an advantage. These objectives provided valuable buffs and enabled teams to push lanes and destroy turrets.
  • Drafting Strategies: Drafting strategies became increasingly sophisticated, with teams focusing on counter-picking and drafting compositions that synergized well together. The ability to outdraft the opponent was a crucial factor in determining the outcome of the match.

These meta trends and strategies shaped the gameplay at the MLBB International Championship 2022 and provided valuable insights for players looking to improve their game.

Conclusion

The MLBB International Championship 2022 was an unforgettable tournament that showcased the best of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang. From the thrilling matches and standout moments to the exceptional players and evolving meta, the tournament had something for everyone. ECHO's victory marked a new chapter in MLBB esports, and the tournament as a whole demonstrated the growing popularity and competitiveness of the game. As we look forward to future MLBB tournaments, we can expect even more excitement, innovation, and unforgettable moments.