Streamer Game
06/02/2025
Honor of Kings Open Series Split 3
Official Rules
Jan 2025
Introduction and Purpose
Proxima Beta Pte. Limited (“Proxima”) owns the rights to distribute the mobile game Honor of Kings and has created the 2025 Open Series Split 3 as the Official grassroots event that features play of the game at an elite level (“KOS” or the “Tournament”).
This Official Rulebook (“Rules”) governs the KOS and applies to all participating teams (“Teams”) and their personnel, including players, owners, managers, coaches, and other staff (“Team Members”).
These Rules serve as the foundation for ensuring a fair, transparent, and competitive environment for all participants and are essential to maintain the integrity of the Tournament, promote sportsmanship, and safeguard the reputation of Honor of Kings. A standardized rule set ensures consistency and benefits all participants in the KOS.
1.General Information
1.1 Acceptance of Tournament Terms and Server Setup
Each Team Member must agree and accept all the rules in this ruleset and the fixed server location with variable latency in order to participate in this Tournament.
1.2 Age
In order to be eligible to participate in KOS as a player, an individual must have reached the age of majority in their home country or region (the place where the player is a citizen or lawful permanent resident) and be at least 16 years of age as of 23:59 (UTC+8) 23th January 2025.
1.3 Schedule
SEA, SA, MENA, SOUTH LATAM, North Amercia & North LATAM：
Registration：24th Jan 00:00- 7th Feb 23:59 2024 (UTC +0).
Qualification：8th Feb - 12nd Feb
Round of 16: 15th Feb - 16th Feb
Quarterfinals + Semifinals: 22nd Feb
Final: 23th Feb
KR, JP, EEU & CA,WEU:
Registration: 14th Feb 00:00 - 28th Feb 23:59 (UTC+0)
Qualification: 1st Mar - 4th Mar
Round of 16: 8th Mar - 9th Mar
Quarterfinals + Semifinals: 15th Mar
Final: 16th Mar
BR:
Registration: 21st Mar 00:00 - 20 Apr 23:59 (UTC+0)
Qualification: 5th Apr - 8th Apr
Round of 16: 12nd Apr - 13th Apr
Quarterfinals + Semifinals: 19th Apr
Final: 20th Apr
1.4 Tournament Format
Qualification will be played in the in-game Open Series Tournament system. After Qualification, games will be played in HoK CLUB tool hosted by the Tournament organiser. The matches will follow a single-elimination format, with all stages being BO3, except for the Final, which will be a BO5.
1.5 Device Usage and Restrictions
Players are allowed to use their own mobile/tablet device during qualification, players that use PC emulators will be disqualified.
1.6 Roster Rule
Team Rosters must be a minimum of 5 players and no more than 7 players with 2 players being substitute players. Any player/team in the Regional Pro League roster is not allowed to join the Open Series Split 3.
1.7 Regional Requirement
1.7.1 For all non-SEA regions:
1.7.1.1 Roster Rules
(a) Each Team is allowed up to ONE player from a country or region outside the Team’s home region.
(b) Each Team must have at least TWO players who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of the Team’s home country.
(c) Each Team must have at least FOUR players who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of countries within the Team’s home region.
1.7.1.2 Player Residency Eligibility:
A player is considered a “resident” of a particular country or region for purposes of these Rules if:
(a) The player is a citizen of the country or region; or
(b) The player has been a lawful permanent resident (e.g., Green Card holder) in the country or region for more than one year before the roster lock date, provided that in countries or regions that do not offer lawful permanent resident or an equivalent status, a player can be considered a resident if they meet all the following criteria:
They have lived in the country or region for at least consecutive five years, and
They hold a long-term visa or equivalent documentation and pay income taxes as required by law in the country or region
1.7.2 For SEA Regions
1.7.2.1 Roster Rules
There are 4 sub-regions: SEA-ID, SEA-MY, SEA-PH, SEA-WC
Teams need to register under the region following their home country or region. Each team must have at least THREE players who are citizens or lawful permanent residents of the Team’s home country or region. Each team can contain a maximum TWO players who are not residents of the team’s representing the country or region.
SEA
SEA-ID
Indonesia
SEA-MY
Malaysia
SEA-PH
Philippines
SEA-WC
Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Singapore, Timor-Leste, Brunei, Hong Kong, China, Macau, China
1.7.2.2 Import Players & Residency Proof
The Import Player Rule and Roster Rule both follow the unified standards mentioned above.
Example for SEA-WC:
Valid team:
Player 1 : Hong Kong, China
Player 2 : Hong Kong, China
Player 3 : Hong Kong, China
Player 4 (import player) ：Macau, China
Player 5 (import player) : Macau, China
Invalid team:
Player 1: Myanmar
Player 2: Myanmar
Player 3 (import player) : Cambodia
Player 4 (import player) : Cambodia
Player 5 (import player) : Malaysia
There are 3 import players which is against the rule that each team roster can contain a maximum of TWO non-native players
Invalid team:
Player 1: Myanmar
Player 2: Myanmar
Player 3: Myanmar
Player 4 (import player) ：Macau, China
Player 5 (import player) : Macau, China
There are 2 players who are not a resident of the team’s home region (SEA) which is against the rule that each team is allowed up to ONE player who is not a resident of the team’s home region.
1.7.3 Region Division for Import
For the purpose of differentiating imports, this is the 2024 Honor of Kings esports ecosystem regional division. Import players are permitted to come from any of the regions listed below. The division of regions for participation is detailed in the appendix and should be used as the official reference.
Americas: North America; South America (including Brazil)
- Europe: West Europe; East Europe; Türkiye
- MENA: Middle East; North Africa
- Pacific: South Asia; South Korea; Japan; Australia
- Southeast Asia
- Hong Kong, China; Macau, China; Chinese Taipei
1.8 Identity Verification Rules
Residency and Age proof must be provided to the KOS Committee once you qualify from the Qualification. There will be a 2-day roster change window, during which up to 2 players can be substituted. Teams that fail to meet the requirements will be unable to proceed to the future stage of the Tournament. KOS Committee will substitute teams from the reserve teams if necessary.
1.9 Prize Pool Distribution
In addition to in-game rewards for participation, a cash prize of $10,000 will be awarded across all regions. The first-place team in each sub-event will receive $700, and the second-place team will receive $300. Prizes will be distributed via the Creator Hub platform. If a player or team fails to register and submit required materials within the specified timeframe, the cash prize will be forfeited.
1.10 Definition
“Game” means a single instance of competition on the Hero's Gorge map that is played until a winner is determined by one of the following methods, whichever occurs first:
(A) Destruction of the Enemy's Crystal,
(B) Awarded Game Victory.
“Match” means a set of Games that is played until one Team wins the majority of the total Games (e.g., winning three Games in a Best-of-Five Series ("BO5")). The Team that wins the Match either earns points in a league format or advances to the next round.
“KOS Committee” means the administrators, officials, and referees designated by Proxima to operate the Tournament and resolves disputes arising out of or relating to it.
2. Registration & In-game Qualification Rules
2.1 Register Rules
2.1.1 Account Usage and Registration Requirements
Each team must complete registration through the in-game registration system. Players must log in using their own accounts. A player is not allowed to register with two accounts simultaneously. All players must meet the requirements of the Residency Rule and Import Player Rule.
2.1.2 Regions confirmation
Once teams are confirmed at this stage, no changes to the representing region or player roster will be allowed.
2.2 Qualification Rules
2.2.1 Qualification Participation Requirement
Registered teams must participate in qualification to compete for a spot in the top 16 of each Open Series. The in-game qualification will follow a single-elimination format. Each team must attend all scheduled matches on time; failure to be present within 10 minutes will result in disqualification.
2.2.2 Qualification Results and Disputes
Match results will be automatically recorded by the system. Any disputes must be submitted within 15 minutes after the match ends. All disputes must be submitted through official channels, and results will be reviewed and provided within 48 hours. If there are objections to match results or rule enforcement, sufficient evidence must be provided.
2.2.3 Qualification to Round of 16 and Server Information
Top 16 teams will be qualified to Round of 16. The detailed list of regions, countries, and servers can be found in the appendix.
3. Round of 16 to Final Rules
3.1 Competition Settings and Participant Compliance
All participants must adhere to the KOS Committee’s settings for the HoK CLUB competition, including server settings, pause rules, OB rules, etc. Violations will result in a warning, and serious offenses may lead to disqualification from the competition.
3.2 Pre-Match Preparation and Automatic Forfeiture for Non-Readiness
3.2.1 Submission of Participation Information
Players or teams must submit all required participation details and personal identification within the specified timeframe, no later than the day before the match. The event organizers will verify each player’s information prior to the match to ensure it aligns with the submitted data. Any discrepancies will result in the cancellation of the team's qualification, as per the competition rules.
3.2.2 Readiness and Forfeiture for Delay
Players or teams are required to be fully prepared and ready before the match. If multiple reminders are sent by the event organizers and there is no response, a delay exceeding 5 minutes will result in an automatic forfeiture of the match.
3.2.3 Arrival Time and Forfeiture
Event organizers will provide a participation link to the HoK CLUB ahead of the match. Teams are expected to reserve their match time accordingly. Failure to arrive within 15 minutes of the scheduled start time will result in the match being automatically forfeited.
3.2.4 In-Match Verification
During the match, players are required to submit photos showing themselves actively participating in the competition. The photos must clearly display the player's face and the equipment used for the competition. These photos may be taken by friends or family members. The event organizers will conduct a second verification; any inconsistency in the provided information will result in disqualification of the team in accordance with the competition rules.
3.2.5 Post-Match Protocol
After the match concludes, participants must return to the HoK CLUB interface to officially end the game. The event organizers will then communicate the match schedule and bracket for the next round.
3.3 Online Competition Special Rules - Preventing Play on Behalf and Cheating
3.3.1 Account Verification
All players must use a unique account that is clearly linked to their personal information for the competition.
The KOS Committee will verify each participant’s account before the competition to ensure their identity matches the registered details.
3.3.2 Match Monitoring
The KOS Committee will utilize technical means to monitor the competition in real-time to detect and prevent any forms of cheating or play on behalf.
All players are required to have their webcams on throughout the match, with clear visibility of both their face and hand movements.
3.3.3 Player Equipment
The version of Honor of Kings used at KOS will be determined by the KOS Committee at its discretion. Restrictions may be added at any time before or during a Match, if there are known bugs with any items, heroes, skins, or other elements.
3.3.4 Network Environment
Players must ensure they have a stable and reliable network connection throughout the competition to avoid disruptions or latency issues.
The KOS Committee recommends players use wired internet connections and have a backup network solution available as a precaution.
3.3.5 Reporting Mechanism
The KOS Committee has established a reporting mechanism to allow players and spectators to report any suspected instances of cheating or play on behalf.
All reports will be thoroughly investigated by the KOS Committee, with necessary actions taken.
3.3.6 Data Recording
The KOS Committee will record all match data, including player actions and game logs, for post-match review and analysis.
Match data will be used to assess player performance and monitor the integrity of the competition.
3.3.7 Post-Match Review
Following each match, the KOS Committee will conduct a thorough review, which includes reviewing match recordings and analyzing data to ensure no violations occurred.
If any violations are detected during the post-match review, the KOS Committee reserves the right to impose penalties on the affected players or teams.
3.3.8 Pause
A pause is recognized as an official halt during a Game, initiated either by the referee's order or at a player's request. While the Game is paused, the Match is still considered active, requiring players and coaches to abide by the referee's directives. In the event of a pause, the referee may issue troubleshooting steps to address and swiftly rectify any issues causing the stoppage. Players are obligated to assist the referee in identifying and resolving reasons for the pause. The referee holds the authority to initiate a Game pause or to implement a pause command on any player's device, exercising complete discretion. Players must not request Game pauses in a trivial manner or without good cause. Only Team Members listed in the Active Roster are eligible to request a pause, with the frequency and conditions under which a pause can be requested determined by the referee based on specific circumstances. The referee retains the right to approve or deny pause requests, and the Game continues until the referee's authorization. Deliberate disconnections will not warrant pause approvals. Should a player intentionally disconnect the Game or audio without prior notification to the referee, for unjustifiable reasons, that player and the Team may be subject to disciplinary action.
3.3.9.1 Player Pause
Players may request a pause in the Game immediately following any of the events described below, but the player must signal the referee immediately by using the real-time audio (by saying “pause”) and type “PP”. The referee will then verify the situation and decide if it may become an authorized pause. Acceptable reasons include:
(A) An unintentional disconnection, which may include Game, voice chat, or audio disconnection caused by a hardware or Internet malfunction.
(B) Unstable Internet connection, with a ping of 100ms or higher.
(C) Player's sudden physical illness or injury
3.3.9.2 Medical Pause
During a Game, if a medical issue, including illness, injury, or other conditions, renders a player unable to continue and necessitates a pause, the Team is required to arrange for a Substitute player from their Active Roster within 5 minutes. The Substitute must play with the same hero, utilize identical equipment, and adhere to the same settings as the player being replaced, and will proceed with the Match without any adjustments. It is important to note that a player who is substituted due to a medical condition will be ineligible to participate in any of the remaining Games on that match day. Should a Team find itself with four or fewer available players, the S3 Committee will exercise its discretion to determine the outcome. Players may not unpause the game themselves. The Game will be resumed once the countdown concludes or resumed by the Game Observer with referee's permission.
3.3.9.3 Unauthorized Pause
If a Player pauses or unpauses a Game without permission from the referee, it will be considered unfair play, and sanctions will be applied at the discretion of the HoK Committee.
3.4 Advanced Rules
Advancers must comply with the rules of the respective qualifying league. If they do not meet the requirements, the qualification spot will be deferred. The specific deferral rules will be subject to the KOS Committee's notification. Teams advancing to Major East/West can replace up to 2 players. Roster Lock: March 18, 23:59 (UTC+8), 2025. SEA and BR must follow regional KOS Committee rules.
4. Team Names and Logos, and Player Names
4.1 Team Names and Logos
Each Team must have a unique name that does not include all or any part of the name of another team or esports organization. Team names must have an abbreviation that is at least 2 characters long and that does not exceed 4 characters. The full name of a Team and any abbreviations of that name must only contain English characters and Arabic numerals. Unless otherwise specified by the Team in writing, the S3 Committee and its licensees are entitled to use the full Team name and/or the abbreviations of that name for any purpose during the Tournament.
Each Team must have a unique logo which differs in design from the logos used by other teams and esports organizations. The Team logo must be a single, cohesive design and cannot be a combination of two or more separate images or logos. Unless otherwise specified by the Team in writing, the S3 Committee and its licensees are entitled to use the Team’s logos for any purpose during the Tournament.
4.2 Player Names
A player’s gamer tag or in-game nickname (“Gamer Tag”) may only include English characters and Arabic numerals and may not exceed 12 characters. Players may not use Gamer Tags that are identical or similar to the names used by heroes in Honor of Kings. A Gamer Tag may not include all or part of a sponsor’s name or any other corporate name or make use of the trademarks or other intellectual property of any third party. Gamer Tags may not include any word or phrase in any language that is offensive, toxic, or hurtful. Gamer Tags will be selected at the time of registration and may not be changed during the Tournament. All Gamer Tags must be reviewed and approved by the S3 Committee before they can be used at a Tournament.
4.3 Team Sponsors and Partners
A Team and/nor any Players can enter into any sponsorship, endorsement, advertising or related agreement with any person or entity (“Sponsorship”) solely upon the KOS Committee’s prior approval. The KOS Committee has its sole discretion at any time to prohibit any Sponsorship that contains: (A) Any product or service prohibited by applicable law, drugs and drug paraphernalia, to***co products, addictive substance, alcohols (except for low-alcohols), gambling and casinos, po*******hy, adult products, cryptocurrency, any business that promotes the use of in-game hacks, cheats, exploit, power levelling, or in-game currency farming, peer-to-peer credit. (B) Any competitor of Tencent or its affiliates, any video games that are not published by Tencent or its affiliates, and any esports leagues, Tournaments, or events, other than Official Competitions.
5.Bug
5.1 Definition of Terms
Any explanations and Game actions that are not mentioned in the explanations of the Game's skills and mechanics are referred to as BUGs.
5.2 Bug Report
If a player encounters any bug that is not officially confirmed, the Team he/she belongs to shall report the bug to the KOS Committee.
5.3 Game Elements Restriction
If any equipment, Hero, skin, Arcana, or Common Skill encounters a BUG, or due to any other reason that is confirmed by the KOS Committee, the referee may impose restrictions at any time before or during a Game
5.4 Illegitimate Benefiting
If a player encounters a bug that would severely affect the Game, then he/she shall immediately report the bug to the referee; if the player fails to do so, he/she may be considered as deliberately concealing the bug or postponing reporting to find a point in time in his/her favour, which is subject to penalties.
5.5 Re-Pick/Ban
If a Game restarts due to any bug related to a Hero, then the referee reserves the right to decide whether to ban this Hero in the following Games or not. If the Hero is banned by the referee, then all the previous picks and bans related to this Hero will no longer be retained.
5.6 Restart Protocol
During a Game, in the case of a critical bug that would significantly change the Game mechanism and data, thus affecting players' competition capability, or in the case of external factors that render the Game unable to continue, the Game shall be allowed to be restarted. The KOS Committee shall confirm that the bug is critical and can be proven and reserve the right to decide whether this bug has affected players' competition capability.
5.7 Punishment for Bug Exploiting
Exploiting bugs that have been announced in the Pre-Match Notification or unknown bugs that obviously affect the fairness of a Game will be subject to the following escalated penalties: (A) The player will be suspended for a minimum of 6 months. (B) The coaches and Teams have joint responsibility of management, and thus will be subjected to escalated penalties including but not limited to suspensions, hefty fines, or deprivation of participation in future Matches. (C) Penalty points to the Team involved in related Games/Matches.
6. Code of Conduct
6.1 Competition Conduct Code
6.1.1 Collusion
Collusion is strictly prohibited in all aspects of the Tournament and is defined as any agreement, arrangement, or coordination between players, teams, or other parties to influence the outcome of a match or Tournament in a manner contrary to fair competition. Prohibited examples of collusion include intentionally losing a match or conspiring to manipulate match results, sharing information or strategies with opponents during active competition to gain an unfair advantage, agreeing to split prize money or other rewards as part of a pre-arranged outcome, or any behavior that undermines the integrity of the competition.
6.1.2 Competitive Integrity
Teams are expected to play at their best at all times within any Game and to avoid any behavior inconsistent with the principles of good sportsmanship, honesty, or fair play.
6.1.3 Buying, Selling, Renting, Transferring
Teams and players are not allowed to buy, sell, rent, or transfer game materials, game accounts or in-game items that belong to King Pro League (KPL) or Honor of Kings..
6.1.4 Cheating
Cheating in any form is prohibited. Examples of cheating include: (1) unauthorized modifications of the Honor of Kings game client by any players, teams, or any individuals or organizations acting on behalf of a player or a team, (2) any use of equipment or accessories not permitted by the KOS Committee, such as signaling devices, or (3) any other cheating actions such as gesturing, the use of unauthorized grip powder or match phone cases and films.
6.1.5 Exploiting
Intentionally using any in-game bug to seek an advantage is exploiting and is prohibited. Exploiting includes glitches in any game function that, in the sole determination of the KOS Committee, is not functioning as intended.
6.1.6 Spectator Monitors
Looking at or attempting to look at the spectator's monitors is prohibited.
6.1.7 Ringing
Playing under another player's account or soliciting, inducing, encouraging, or directing someone else to play under another player's account is ringing and is prohibited.
6.1.8 Profanity and Hate Speech
A Team Member may not, in any Game, Match, media interview or in any communication relating to the Tournament or Honor of Kings, use any language that is profane, offensive, insulting, libelous, slanderous, defamatory, obscene, discriminatory, threatening, foul or vulgar. A Team Member may not post, repost, transmit, or otherwise disseminate any such prohibited communications on social media or during any public-facing events, including in any streams of Honor of Kings. This rule applies to speech in all languages. In addition, Team Members may not encourage members of the public to engage in any activities that are prohibited by this rule.
6.1.9 Unauthorised Communications
All communication devices must be removed from the Match Area before the game. Players are not allowed to text/email or use social media while in the Match Area. During the match, communication by a Starter shall be limited to the players of the Starter's team.
6.1.10 Doping
Doping is prohibited in the Tournament. For the purposes of these Rules, “doping” is defined as the use of substances or methods to artificially enhance cognitive, attention, or physical performance in a manner that provides an unfair advantage or is detrimental to the spirit of fair competition.
6.1.11 Identity
A player is not allowed to cover his/her face or attempt to conceal his/her identity from the referee. For this reason, hats and sun glasses are not allowed on the stage.
6.1.12 Appearance
All Team Members are required to maintain proper hygiene standards throughout the Tournament to ensure health and safety for all participants and to uphold the professional image of the Tournament. Proper hygiene includes, wearing clean clothing and practicing good personal grooming. Players must also ensure their hygiene practices do not pose health risks or cause discomfort to others. Before a match, a player shall follow the instructions of S3 Committee officials in terms of stage makeup.
6.2 Unprofessional Behaviour
6.2.1 Harassment
Harassment is forbidden. Harassment is defined as systematic, hostile, and repeated acts taking place over a period of time, or a singular egregious instance, which is/are intended to isolate or ostracize a person and/or affect the dignity of the person.
6.2.2 Sexual Harassment
Sexual harassment is defined as unwelcome sexual advances and is strictly prohibited. The assessment is based on whether the object of a potential sexual harassment action would regard the conduct as undesirable or offensive. There is zero tolerance for any sexual threats/coercion or the promise of advantages in exchange for sexual favors.
6.2.3 Discrimination Denigration
Team Members are not allowed to offend the dignity or integrity of a country, private person, or group of people through contemptuous, discriminatory, or denigrating words or actions on account of race, skin, color, ethnic, national, or social origin, gender, language, religion, political opinion or any other opinion, financial status, birth or any other status, sexual orientation or any other reason.
6.2.4 Confidentiality
A Team Member may not disclose any confidential information provided or made available by the KOS Committee or its representatives to the Team Member in relation to the Tournament. Confidential information includes the configuration of the stage used at the Tournament and other similar information that is withheld from fans in order to preserve the “reveal”.
6.2.5 Criminal Activity
Team Members must comply with applicable law in all matters relating to the Tournament.
6.2.6 Moral Turpitude
Team Member may not commit any act or become involved in any situation or occurrence tending to bring the Tournament, Proxima or its affiliates, sponsors, or Honor of Kings into public scandal, ridicule or which will reflect unfavorably on the reputation of any of the foregoing.
6.2.7 Public Order Disturbance
Team Members are prohibited from disrupting the peace or engaging in any form of public disturbance during the Tournament. Public disturbances include disorderly conduct, loud or disruptive behavior, physical altercations, or any actions that interfere with the Tournament operations or the enjoyment of the event by others.
6.2.8 Abusive Behaviour to Referees
All referees and Tournament officials must be treated with courtesy and respect at all times. Any form of abuse, harassment, intimidation, or disrespectful behavior directed toward referees or KOS Committee officials is strictly prohibited and constitutes a violation of these Rules. Such behavior includes verbal abuse, physical intimidation, or any actions intended to undermine the authority or professionalism of referees or officials.
6.2.9 Bribery
No Team Member may offer any gift or cash or other reward to a player, coach, manager, referee, Tournament official, or any other person connected with or employed by another Team in order to influence the outcome of a Game or Match.
6.2.10 Gifts
No Team Member may accept any gift, reward, or compensation from another Team or player (or anyone acting on behalf of another team or player) in connection with the Tournament.
6.2.11 No-Compliance
No Team Member is allowed to refuse or fail to follow the reasonable instructions or decisions of the KOS Committee made in connection with the Tournament.
6.2.12 Match-Fixing
No Team Member may offer, agree, or conspire to fix a match or take any other action to intentionally and unfairly alter, or attempt to alter, the results of any Game (or any play or component thereof). If a Team Member is asked to “fix” the outcome of a Game or to otherwise take part in any actions prohibited by these Rules, that Team Member must immediately report this request to the KOS Committee.
6.2.13 Document Requests
Documentation or other reasonable items may be required at various times throughout the KOS as requested by the KOS Committee. If the documentation is not completed to the standards set by the KOS, then a team may be subject to sanctions.
6.2.14 Gambling
No Team Member is allowed to take part, either directly or indirectly, in betting or gambling on any results of any Game, Match or other element of the Tournament.
7. Disciplinary Action
7.1 Purpose
Honor of Kings esports competitions are built on the principles of fairness, professionalism, and respect. Rule violations undermine these principles and can disrupt the trust of players, teams, fans, and other stakeholders. Sanctions are therefore necessary not only to deter misconduct but also to uphold the credibility of the Tournament and ensure that all participants adhere to the same standards. These measures are critical for fostering a safe, respectful, and equitable environment where teams and players can compete to their fullest potential.
7.2 Monitoring Compliance, Investigation of Violations
The KOS Committee reserves the right to monitor compliance with these Rules and may investigate potential violations (either directly or using a third-party investigator). All Team Members are required to cooperate with the KOS Committee in any investigation involving a possible violation of these Rules. Team Members have a duty to tell the truth in connection with any investigation conducted by or for the KOS Committee and have a further duty not to obstruct any such investigation, mislead investigators or withhold evidence. A Team Member's failure to cooperate with an investigation is a violation of these Rules.
7.3 Team Responsibility
Teams are responsible for the actions of their players, coaches, managers, and other Team Members and affiliated personnel. If a Team Member violates these Rules, the Team itself may be held accountable, and disciplinary action may be imposed on the Team in addition to, or instead of, the individual. Teams are expected to ensure that all Team Members understand and comply with these Rules at all times during the Tournament.
7.4 Range of Possible Sanctions
If the KOS Committee determines that a Team Member or a Team has committed a violation of these Rules, the KOS Committee may, in its discretion, issue any the following disciplinary actions (either alone or in combination):
(A) Verbal Warning(s)
(B) Written Warning(s)
(C) Loss of Side Selection for Current or Future Game(s)
(D) Loss of all four bans for the first Game of the Match.
(E) Loss of all four bans for all Games of the Match.
(F) Cash Fines (10%/30%/50%/70% deduction of the team prize pool).
(G) Game Forfeiture(s)
(H) Match Forfeiture(s)
(I) Player or Team Suspension(s)
(I) Prize Forfeiture(s)
(J) Player or Team Disqualification(s)
(K) Ban for future Honor of Kings Tournament events
A Team or Team Member may be subject to the foregoing sanctions and disciplinary actions if he/she/it directs, encourages, knowingly assists, or knowingly permits another person or entity to violate these Rules.
7.5 Sanctions Matrix
The KOS Committee has developed the sanctions matrix below to guide its decision-making when determining the appropriate disciplinary action for Rule violations. The sanctions matrix considers factors such as the nature and severity of the violation, the intent behind the action, the potential or actual harm caused, and whether the violation is a repeat offense. While the sanctions matrix provides a framework for consistency, the KOS Committee retains the sole discretion to determine the level and severity of the sanction in each case. This allows the KOS Committee to address unique circumstances and ensure that the sanction aligns with the nature of the violation and its impact on the Tournament.
Severity Level
Violation Details
Sanction Imposed
1
Failure to arrive at the venue on time (not more than 5 minutes late).
Verbal Warning. OR
Written warning.
Removal the headset before the Game is over.
Failure to report to the referee when a Team Member needs to leave the lobby or stage.
Any other violation that does not cause financial harm or result in adverse media coverage or comment.
2
Failure to arrive at the venue on time (between 5 and 15 minutes late).
Cash Fines: 100 USD per instance.
Using “Help Pick” during the draft.
Failure to return to the stage on time after the break between Games (not more than 2 minutes late).
Talking to other players in the first five minutes during the pause.
Damage to equipment by accident (not severe).
Cash Fines: Based on the replacement value of the equipment.
Any other violation that has only a minor impact on a Tournament procedure or process.
Cash Fines: 100 USD per instance.
3
Failure to use the players or coach registered on the Active Roster or a permitted Substitute.
Loss of all four bans for the first Game of the Match
Failure to arrive at the venue on time (between 15 and 30 minutes late).
Loss of all four bans for the first Game of the Match. PLUS
Loss of Side Selection for the first game of the Match. PLUS
Cash Fines: 100 USD
Failure to return to the stage on time after the break between Games (between 2 and 10 minutes late).
Loss of all four bans for the next Game of the Match PLUS
Cash Fines: 100 USD
Any other violation that has a major impact on a Tournament procedure or process (including streaming of the Tournament).
4
Failure to return to the stage on time before the first Game of the Match and no show for the team walk-in and introduction.
Game Forfeiture(s): The next Game will be automatically considered as loss. PLUS
Prize Forfeiture(s): 10% deduction of the team prize pool.
Failure to arrive at the venue on time (more than 30 minutes late).
Intentional or reckless damage to equipment.
Player or Team Suspension(s): The Player or Team Member will be suspended for the next Match. PLUS
Prize Forfeiture(s): 30% deduction of the team prize pool.
Refusal to corporate with a referee or a member of the Tournament staff.
Player or Team Suspension(s): The Player or Team Member will be suspended for all remaining matches of S3. PLUS
Cash Fines: 500 USD.
Failure to return to the stage on time after the break between Games (more than 10 minutes late).
Game Forfeiture(s): The next game will be automatically considered as loss. PLUS
Prize Forfeiture(s): 10% deduction of the team prize pool.
Any other violation that has a severe impact on a Tournament procedure or process but does not violate applicable law.
Game Forfeiture(s) or
Match Forfeiture(s) PLUS
Prize Forfeiture(s): 10% - 30% deduction of the team prize pool.
5
Collusion.
Player or Team Disqualification(s): The player and Team will be disqualified from the S3 Tournament. PLUS
Player or Team Suspension(s): The player or Team will have a two-year suspension for all Honor of Kings Tournaments and events. PLUS
Prize Forfeiture(s): 100% deduction of the team prize pool.
Match-mixing.
Cheating.
Use of drugs that in violation of the Rules.
Betting for the Honor of Kings Tournaments.
Verbal or violent attacks on referees or Tournament staff.
Player or Team Suspension(s): The player will have a two-year suspension from all Honor of Kings Tournaments and events. PLUS
Prize Forfeiture(s): 50% deduction of the team prize pool.
Any other behaviors that violates applicable law or causes adverse media coverage or comment.
Player or Team Disqualification(s) from the S3 Tournament. PLUS
Player or Team Suspension(s): The player or Team will have a two-year suspension from all Honor of Kings Tournaments and events. PLUS
Prize Forfeiture(s): 30-100% deduction of the team prize pool.
8. Obligation
8.1 Cooperation
The KOS Committee reserves the right to ask players, without affecting their gameplay and preparations, to cooperate with the officials in game-related activity participation, such as Open Series related activities, news conferences, interviews of all kinds, and activities organised by sponsors. Tardiness due to personal reasons in those activities mentioned above may be subject to penalties.
9. Supplement
9.1 Appeal and Role of KOS Committee
All decisions regarding the interpretation of these Rules, player eligibility, scheduling and staging of the Open Series, and penalties for misconduct, lie solely with the KOS Committee. KOS Committee’s decisions with respect to these Rules can be appealed. The appeal will be arbitrated by the KOS Committee within three working days, the result of which is final. The decisions shall not give rise to any claim for monetary damages or any other legal or equitable remedy. During the Open Series, the officials reserve the right to final decisions.
9.2 Rule Changes
These Rules may be amended, modified, or supplemented by the Open Series, from time to time, in order to ensure fair play and the integrity of the Open Series.
9.3 Professional Match Regulations
Players and other members in a team shall abide by Professional Match Regulations issued by the Open Series.
Appendix：
Open Series Tournament regions, countries & Tournament server location :
Open Series Tournament
Region
Country or Region
Server
HoK Open Series Split 3 - Japan
Japan
Japan
Singapore
HoK Open Series Split 3 - South Korea
South Korea
South Korea
Singapore
HoK Open Series Split 3 - South Asia
South Asia
Pakistan
Singapore
Bangladesh
Nepal
Sri Lanka
Maldives
Bhutan
HoK Open Series Split 3 - SEA Indonesia
SEA-ID
Indonesia
Singapore
HoK Open Series Split 3 - SEA Malaysia
SEA-MY
Malaysia
Singapore
HoK Open Series Split 3 - SEA Philippines
SEA-PH
Philippines
Singapore
HoK Open Series Split 3 - SEA Wildcard
SEA-WC
Myanmar, Cambodia, Loas, Singapore, Timor-Leste,Brunei，Hong Kong, China，Macau, China
Singapore
HoK Open Series Split 3 - North America & North Latam
North America
United States of America
Dallas
Canada
North LATAM
Mexico
Colombia
Ecuador
Costa Rica
Guatemala
Dominican Republic
Panama
Puerto Rico
Venezuela (Bolivarian Republic of)
El Salvador
Honduras
Jamaica
Nicaragua
Trinidad and Tobago
Haiti
Guyana
Bahamas
Belize
French Guiana
Barbados
Saint Lucia
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Grenada
Antigua and Barbuda
Virgin Islands (U.S.)
Virgin Islands (British)
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Turks and Caicos Islands
Aruba
Cayman Islands
Bermuda
Martinique
Guadeloupe
Anguilla
Curaçao
Sint Maarten (Dutch part)
Saint Martin (French part)
Bonaire, sint eustatius and saba
Commonwealth of Dominica
HoK Open Series Split 3 - South Latam
South LATAM
Argentina
St. Paul
Peru
Chile
Bolivia (Plurinational State of)
Uruguay
Paraguay
Suriname
HoK Open Series Split 3 - Brazil
Brazil
Brazil
St. Paul
HoK Open Series Split 3 - MENA
MENA
Saudi Arabia
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates
Egypt
Iraq
Morocco
Algeria
Tunisia
Qatar
Libya
Oman
Jordan
Lebanon
Kuwait
Bahrain
HoK Open Series Split 3 - Eastern Europe and Central Asia
EEU
Uzbekistan
Finland
Kazakhstan
Kyrgyzstan
Turkmenistan
Tajikistan
Mongolia
Georgia
Armenia
Moldova
Latvia
Republic of Lithuania
Estonia
Albania
Montenegro
North Macedonia
Kosovo
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Croatia
Slovenia
Hungary
Slovak
Serbia
Romania
Czech Republic
Greece
Poland
Bulgaria
TR
Turkey
Azerbaijan
HoK Open Series Split 3 - Western Europe
WEU
Andorra
Milan
Austria
Belgium
Denmark
Faroe Islands
Finland
France
Germany
Gibraltar
Guernsey
Iceland
Ireland
Isle of Man
Italy
Jersey
Liechtenstein
Luxembourg
Malta
Monaco
Netherlands
Norway
Portugal
San Marino
Spain
Svalbard and Jan Mayen
Sweden
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Vatican City
Åland Islands
