Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) has officially returned to the US market following a brief suspension that left American players unable to access the game. The ban, which was implemented on January 19, 2025, came as a result of the US government’s crackdown on Chinese-owned digital platforms, including TikTok.
MLBB, developed by MOONTON—a subsidiary of ByteDance, the owner of TikTok—was removed from app stores and became unplayable for US gamers alongside the short-form video platform. However, while TikTok’s services were restored just hours later due to an Executive Order from President Donald Trump, MLBB remained inaccessible for nearly two days before finally returning in the early hours of January 21 (UK time).
“Great news! Mobile Legends: Bang Bang is officially back after a brief pause,” announced MLBB on social media. “Simply open the app as usual, no additional action is needed, and jump right back into the fun. Thank you for your patience and support during our brief pause. We’re thrilled to have you back.”
To compensate for the disruption, MOONTON has offered players a ‘small gift’ alongside in-game rewards that would have been available during the temporary shutdown.
MLBB’s return comes just in time for the 2025 Mobile Legends Professional League (MPL) season, which is set to begin in February across multiple regions. While MLBB is significantly more popular in Southeast Asia, where it dominates the MOBA scene, the US has its own tournaments that serve as qualifiers for the game’s major international events.
The ban on MLBB wasn’t an isolated case—Marvel Snap, the popular digital card game, was also affected due to its connection with ByteDance. Like MLBB, it has since been restored as of January 21.
Despite the temporary return of both games, uncertainty remains. The Executive Order that lifted TikTok’s ban is only valid for the next 75 days. If the US government enforces another crackdown, MLBB and Marvel Snap could face another round of restrictions in the near future, leaving American players in limbo once again.
For now, though, US fans of Mobile Legends can log in, queue up, and enjoy the game—at least until the next potential ban looms on the horizon.
