As the Asian Esports Games (AEG) approaches, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB) is set to elevate regional competition and inclusivity by being the exclusive esports title for the women's competition. This year's AEG, organized by the Thailand Esports Federation (TESF) and sanctioned by the Asian Electronic Sports Federation (AESF), will take place from 25 to 27 November 2024, in Bangkok, Thailand.
The AEG 2024 MLBB women's competition will see representation from an unprecedented 20 regional teams, spanning Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia, and the Middle East. This lineup sets a new standard for diversity in women's esports and demonstrates MLBB's leadership in driving regional recognition and opportunities for female players. With representatives from regions including Thailand, Indonesia, China, and the Philippines, including first-time participants from countries like Mongolia, Tajikistan, and Nepal, the MLBB women's tournament reflects the unifying spirit of esports and the growing popularity of the game among female esports athletes across Asia.
"This year's Asian Esports Games marks another huge milestone for women's esports," said Ray Ng, Head of Esports Ecosystem at MOONTON Games. "The representation of 20 regions in the MLBB women’s tournament exemplifies our commitment to diversity and the dedication of AESF and TESF in creating a competitive platform that encourages inclusivity globally. We are thrilled to witness the strengthening of the esports ecosystem with more countries embracing womens' esports, allowing the MLBB community to continue breaking boundaries."
Santi Lothong, President of TESF said: "We are proud to organize the Asian Esports Games and support the growth of women's esports through the exclusive MLBB competition. This event showcases not only the talent of female players, but also Thailand's dedication to fostering a vibrant esports ecosystem. We believe that by providing a platform for women to compete at an international level, we can inspire the next generation of esports athletes across the region."
The spotlight will be on the Indonesia national team, who will be looking to rebuild their once-reputation as undefeatable. The Indonesians comprise primarily of players from Team Vitality, who lost their 24-match winning streak – which dates to 2021 – at the MLBB Women's Invitational (MWI) 2024 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in July. They were swept 3-0 in the Grand Finals by Smart Omega Empress, who wrote history as the first Filipino team to win a tournament at the Esports World Cup, and who will themselves be expected to compete at the AEG.
Smart Omega Empress celebrates their maiden MWI victory at the Esports World Cup.
Regional inclusivity shines bright at AEG 2024
As the exclusive women's esports title at AEG, MLBB showcases how the region's esports landscape has continued to evolve and support female talent and inclusivity. The participation of China's women's team marks a key moment, as it represents their first global competition in Southeast Asia. This event highlights China's growing engagement in esports and underscores the expansion of the competitive gaming landscape on a global scale, with new regions stepping into the scene for the first time.
The hosting of AEG in Bangkok is also a pivotal moment for Thailand's esports ecosystem, as the country prepares to host the 33rd Southeast Asian Games in 2025. Supported by the Sports Authority of Thailand, the AEG not only shines a spotlight on Thailand's growing esports potential, but also positions the nation as a central hub for regional sporting events. This event represents Thailand's commitment to fostering esports talent and enhancing the esports infrastructure within Asia.
As excitement builds for the Asian Esports Games, fans and supporters worldwide can tune in to watch the action live and witness the next chapter in MLBB women's esports. With record-breaking participation and unprecedented geographic diversity, AEG 2024 will set the stage for a new era in Asian women's esports.
