Apex Legends Esports Drama: Respawn Releases Official Statement

The recent North American finals for the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) championship are postponed due to a hacking incident that took place in the esports game. Developers are concerned that hackers have compromised the 'competitive integrity' of the game, as two professionals from popular Apex Legends teams were targeted, while livestreaming on March 17, 2024. During the attack, the professionals were forcibly given cheats while playing their final matches of the tournament. 

The incident shook the entire Apex Legends fanbase, as no one could recognize at first if Genburten from the DarkZero team and ImperialHal from TSM were hacking or not. Fast forward to March 20, and Respawn has officially released a statement addressing the issue. 

Also read: Apex Legends #1 Ranked Player Live Banned Amidst Hacking Accusations

Apex Legends Developers Confirm the Hacking Incident in ALGS and Respond 

Right after the incident happened in the recent ALGS tournament, Apex Legends Esports' official X account posted a tweet, stating that the competitive integrity of the series is being compromised. Following the incident, they have decided to postpone the NA finals for the time being. In the post, they also stated that they would share more on this matter soon. 

On March 20, developers shared another tweet addressing the issue. In the note, Respawn mentioned the incident that happened earlier this week, where Genburten DZ and ImperialHal TSM's accounts were hacked during the ALGS event. Respawn added that game and player security are their top priorities, and following the incident, they have decided to pause the competition to address the issue.

Respawn is currently working on the issue, as they have deployed the first of a layered series of updates to protect the Apex Legends player community and create a secure experience for everyone.  While the post does not specifically mention what the 'layered series of updates' will incorporate, gamers are expecting a better anti-cheat update and security against cheaters. 

Apex Legends Esports' official X handle also retweeted this post and stated that they are actively working with the parents at EA and Respawn to remain committed to ensuring the 'security and competitive integrity' of the Apex Legends tournament. The post also mentions that the developers do not anticipate any changes to the Split 1 Playoffs. New information will be relayed to fans on the Challenger Circuit and the NA regional Finals soon.

Hackers in Apex Legends have been an issue since the title's inception. However, this is the first time two professionals have faced a predicament such as this. For now, ALGS viewers must wait before Respawn deploys their security update.