Learning how to play Honor of Kings on iOS is quick once you know the three things that matter: getting the app from the App Store, setting up your account, and getting comfortable with the on-screen touch controls. Honor of Kings is a free 5v5 MOBA from Level Infinite and TiMi Studio Group, and it runs smoothly on modern iPhones and iPads. This guide walks you through everything from download to your first match.
Below you'll find each step in order, with an illustration for every stage. If you've played any MOBA before, the structure will feel familiar; if you're brand new, don't worry — the in-game tutorial and the tips here will get you battle-ready fast.
What you'll need
- An iPhone or iPad running a reasonably recent version of iOS.
- Around 4–6 GB of free storage for the app and its game data.
- A stable Wi-Fi connection for the first download and lag-free matches.
- An Apple ID (and optionally an account you can link to save progress).
How to play Honor of Kings on iOS, step by step
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Step 1: Install Honor of Kings from the App Store
Open the App Store on your iPhone or iPad and search for "Honor of Kings." Confirm the publisher reads Level Infinite so you don't download a copycat, then tap GET and authorise the download with Face ID, Touch ID, or your Apple ID password. The game is free, so there's no upfront charge.
Search for Honor of Kings in the App Store and tap GET to install it. -
Step 2: Open the app, sign in, and download game data
Launch the game and choose how to log in. Sign in with Apple is the fastest secure option on iOS, but you can also use email, link a social account, or continue as a guest. After signing in, the game downloads additional resource packs before your first match — stay on Wi-Fi so this one-time setup finishes quickly. Linking a real account (rather than playing as a guest) keeps your progress safe.
Sign in, then let the game finish its first-launch data download. -
Step 3: Learn the on-screen touch controls
Honor of Kings uses a familiar twin-thumb layout. Your left thumb works a virtual movement joystick — drag it to walk your hero in any direction. Your right thumb controls combat: the large button is your basic attack, and the smaller numbered buttons (1, 2, 3) cast your hero's skills. Drag a skill button to aim it, then release to fire it at a target.
Move with the left joystick; attack and cast skills with the right-hand buttons. -
Step 4: Read the battle map, lanes, and HUD
Every standard match is played on a symmetrical map with three lanes — top, mid, and bottom — separated by a jungle and river full of neutral monsters and buffs. Keep an eye on the minimap in the corner to track allies, enemies, and objectives. Your goal is to push a lane, destroy the enemy towers, and finally break their base (core) to win.
Three lanes, a jungle river, and towers to destroy on the way to the enemy base. -
Step 5: Pick a mode and start your first match
From the main menu, choose a game mode. New players should start with Training to learn a hero against bots, then move to Casual 5v5 for the full three-lane experience with real teammates. Ranked mode unlocks once your account reaches a set level and you've practised a few heroes. Pick a beginner-friendly hero, focus on last-hitting minions for gold, and stick with your team.
Begin with Training or Casual 5v5, then climb into Ranked later.
Tips for new iOS players
- Play on Wi-Fi. A MOBA punishes lag, so a stable connection beats mobile data for ranked play.
- Enable Do Not Disturb. A call or notification mid-fight can cost you the match — silence interruptions during games.
- Customise the controls. In Settings you can resize buttons and switch between targeting styles until the layout fits your thumbs.
- Use a recommended build. The game suggests items and skill orders for each hero — follow them while you're learning.
- Last-hit for gold. Landing the killing blow on minions and monsters is how you fund your items and power up.
Troubleshooting
I can't find Honor of Kings in my App Store
Availability can vary by country and storefront. Make sure you're searching the exact title and the Level Infinite publisher, and check the official Honor of Kings site for the correct store link or release status in your region.
The first download is stuck or very slow
The initial resource download is large. Keep the app in the foreground, stay on Wi-Fi, and confirm you have several gigabytes of free space. Restarting the app usually resumes a stalled download.
The controls feel awkward
Open the in-game Settings and adjust button size, position, and targeting options. Most players also find it easier to use both thumbs in landscape with the device held firmly in both hands.
Frequently asked questions
Is Honor of Kings free on iOS?
Yes. Honor of Kings is free to download and play on iPhone and iPad, with optional in-app purchases for cosmetics and convenience items.
Can I play Honor of Kings on an iPad?
Yes. The game runs on iPad as well as iPhone, and the larger screen makes the touch controls more comfortable for many players.
Do I need an account, or can I play as a guest?
You can start as a guest, but linking an account (Sign in with Apple, email, or a social login) is strongly recommended so your progress is saved and recoverable.
How much storage does Honor of Kings need on iOS?
Plan for roughly 4–6 GB once the app and its game data are installed, though the exact size changes with updates.
Can I use a controller to play on iOS?
Honor of Kings is designed around touch controls, so the on-screen joystick and buttons are the standard way to play on iPhone and iPad.
Final thoughts
That's all it takes to start playing Honor of Kings on iOS: install it from the App Store, sign in and download the data, learn the twin-thumb controls, understand the three-lane map, and jump into a beginner-friendly mode. Spend a few matches in Training and Casual 5v5 to find a hero you enjoy, and you'll be ready for ranked play before long. For the latest official details, visit the official Honor of Kings website.
