MOBA PC

Introducing MOBA PC

MOBA (multiplayer online battle arena) PC is an esports discipline, in which teams compete against each other with each player controlling a unique character. The goal is to work together to outplay the opposing team through smart tactics, tight teamwork – and superfast reactions.

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MOBA PC at the Games of the Future 2026

Competition Format

Every competition features sixteen teams – split into four groups of four. The groups are decided by a random draw and each match is best-of-three (Bo3).

Stages

MOBA PC follows the GSL format which means that in each group, the team that wins two matches advances directly to the quarterfinals. The team with two losses is eliminated. The second- and third-placed teams in each group then play another match against teams from other groups. The winners of those matches secure their spots in the quarterfinals. The tournament then proceeds through the quarterfinals, semifinals, a third-place match, and the final.

Teams

Each team can have up to six players, all aged 16 or over, with five players able to take part in a series. A coach is also able to help with the character selection phase before each game (but not during actual gameplay).

Order of picks and bans

The picks and bans phase is crucial for shaping the strategy of the match. This phase occurs before gameplay begins and involves two main actions – selecting characters (picks) and prohibiting certain characters (bans).

Purpose of Picks and Bans

Strategic Advantage – teams select characters that complement their overall strategy while countering the opponents' choices.

Meta Influence – the picks and bans can reflect the current game meta, where certain characters may be stronger or more popular.

Team Composition – teams consider their roles and synergy, ensuring a balanced composition that can handle various in-game scenarios.

How Picks and Bans Work

Bans : Each team takes turns banning characters they do not want their opponents to use. This limits the available options for the opposing team.

Picks : After the bans, teams select their characters. Each team typically has a set number of picks, allowing them to choose characters that fit their strategy.

First Game : Selected by a coin toss. The winner chooses the side or order of picks for which their team will participate in the first game.
Second Game : The other team gets to choose.
Third Game : Selected by a coin toss. The winner chooses the side or order of picks for which their team will participate in the third game.