Cloud gaming is here: 'Honor of Kings' gets major upgrade with 5G tech in Singapore

Singtel and Tencent Games are taking mobile esports to the next level with the launch of Honor of Kings ∙ Cloud (HoK ∙ Cloud), the first-ever global deployment of 5G network slicing for gaming. This move promises ultra-low latency, smoother gameplay and freedom from heavy downloads or high-end devices, with all processing and rendering handled seamlessly in the cloud.

Already one of the world’s biggest mobile titles, Honor of Kings has built a staggering fanbase, boasting over 110 million monthly active players worldwide and more than 10 million daily players logging in to battle. The game, first released in China in 2015, continues to dominate the mobile gaming scene as one of the highest-grossing titles of all time. Now, with HoK powered by Singtel’s 5G+, players in Singapore will experience near-instant responsiveness and competitive play even on mid-tier smartphones, paving the way for truly mobile-first esports. The result is gameplay that feels instantaneous, competitive, and lag-free — even on mid-tier devices.

The rollout begins with a testing phase in October, before a full release on Singtel’s TxStore in November. Gamers across all networks will be able to access the service, while Singtel subscribers get added perks including discounts of up to 55% on in-game purchases for titles like Honor of Kings and PUBG MOBILE, bonus credits to unlock skins and heroes, and a $6 welcome credit for new TxStore accounts. The TxStore will debut with 30 popular games, with plans to expand to Google Play and beyond, alongside other entertainment apps.

This landmark launch is part of a bigger trend in gaming and connectivity. Analysts project that the global cloud gaming market will grow from USD 5.32 billion in 2025 to nearly USD 40 billion by 2030, with Asia-Pacific leading the charge thanks to rapid 5G adoption and the ubiquity of smartphones. By deploying the world’s first nationwide 5G slice for cloud gaming, Singapore is cementing its role at the forefront of digital innovation and immersive entertainment.

For players of a game as massive as Honor of Kings, where even milliseconds can decide a match, HoK could redefine competitive play. With smoother, faster and more accessible gaming on any device, Singtel and Tencent are setting a new global standard for how the next generation of cloud gaming will be experienced.