Are VALORANT and League of Legends Getting Banned in the US?

Recent developments have sparked concern among gamers in the United States about the potential ban of popular titles like VALORANT and League of Legends. These worries stem from the US government’s increasing scrutiny of Chinese-owned tech companies, citing national security risks.

The TikTok Effect

The ban on TikTok, owned by Chinese company ByteDance, has set a precedent that’s causing ripples throughout the tech and gaming industries. This action has led to speculation about other Chinese-owned companies and their products facing similar restrictions.

Tencent in the Crosshairs

Tencent, the Chinese tech giant that owns Riot Games (developer of VALORANT and League of Legends), has come under increased scrutiny. The US Department of Defense has designated Tencent as a foreign military company, resulting in heavy sanctions and a significant drop in stock value. This blacklisting is seen as a potential step towards restricting Tencent’s operations in the United States.

Impact on Gaming

The potential ban would affect not just VALORANT and League of Legends, but a wide range of games and studios with ties to Tencent. This could lead to:

• Thousands of gamers losing access to their favorite titles
• Disruption of esports tournaments and leagues
• Economic impact on gaming-related businesses and content creators

Mobile Legends: A Cautionary Tale

The recent suspension of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) in the US serves as a warning sign for other games. MLBB, owned by ByteDance subsidiary Moonton, briefly ceased operations following the TikTok ban. However, the game has since been unbanned, offering a glimmer of hope for other potentially affected titles.

Riot Games’ Response

While Riot Games has not directly addressed the ban speculation, they have recently updated their Terms of Service (ToS) for both League of Legends and VALORANT. These updates, set to take effect on January 3, 2025, introduce stricter rules for players and content creators. While not explicitly linked to the ban concerns, these changes demonstrate Riot’s proactive approach to navigating the evolving regulatory landscape.

The Broader Context

The potential ban of these games is part of a larger geopolitical tension between the US and China. The US government’s concerns about data privacy and national security have led to increased scrutiny of Chinese-owned tech companies operating in the country.

Esports Industry Adaptation

In light of these challenges, the esports industry is showing signs of adaptation. Riot Games has announced that it will permit gambling and betting sponsors for League of Legends and VALORANT esports teams in 2025. This move could be seen as an attempt to diversify revenue streams in the face of potential regulatory challenges.

What This Means for Gamers

For now, VALORANT and League of Legends remain accessible in the US. However, players should stay informed about potential changes. It’s advisable to:

• Keep an eye on official announcements from Riot Games
• Be cautious about in-game purchases or long-term commitments
• Consider exploring alternative games as a precaution

Looking Ahead

The situation remains fluid, with no definitive answer on whether VALORANT and League of Legends will face bans in the US. The gaming community, industry stakeholders, and policymakers are closely watching developments.

As the landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial for gamers and industry professionals to stay informed and prepared for potential changes. While the future of these popular titles in the US market remains uncertain, the resilience and adaptability of the gaming community will likely play a significant role in navigating these challenges.