Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising Pro Banned After Reaching Max Rank With Anila

The fighting game community is rallying behind top-tier player Ryazo after his unprecedented achievement in Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising resulted in an unexpected ban. Ryazo, renowned for elite tournament performances including 3rd place at the 2024 ARC World Tour Finals, recently accomplished what many deemed impossible: reaching Grand Master rank (10,000 crystals) using Anila—a character universally regarded as one of the game’s weakest fighters.

Why Was Ryazo Banned in Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising?

Ryazo’s ban appears linked to his record-speed climb using Anila, a character plagued by design flaws. Her slow projectiles, predictable aerial moves, and high-risk/low-reward specials make her exceptionally difficult to master. Community analysts speculate the game’s anti-cheat system flagged Ryazo’s rapid ascent as suspicious activity, potentially mistaking his skill for match-fixing. This theory gained traction after Ryazo confirmed his account suspension occurred shortly after streaming his entire Grand Master grind.

Tournament organizers like Paragon have hosted “Free Ryazo” memorial events, while Anila’s English voice actor, Leona Renee, publicly expressed sympathy. Despite Ryazo’s competitive pedigree—including top-8 finishes at Evo and other majors—developer Cygames has yet to address the ban. This silence raises concerns about automated moderation systems disproportionately impacting high-skill players in niche fighting games.

The Anila Paradox: Skill Versus System Limitations

Anila’s weaknesses are well-documented in the GBVSR meta:

• Predictable Pressure: Her attacks often end combos prematurely or leave her vulnerable.
• Limited Neutral Game: Opponents easily counter her zoning tools and anti-air options.
• Low Tournament Representation: Pro players consistently avoid her in competitive settings.

Ryazo’s achievement defied these limitations, demonstrating how elite fundamentals can overcome character deficits. His Twitch-streamed run provided transparent evidence against cheating allegations. Nevertheless, the automated ban highlights a critical vulnerability: systems designed to curb fraud may inadvertently punish legitimate mastery, especially in games with smaller player bases like GBVSR.

Community Impact and Competitive Repercussions

The incident exposes broader tensions in fighting game ecosystems. Ryazo competes across multiple Arc System Works titles, and an unresolved ban could jeopardize his career. As GBVSR gains momentum post-Rising update—even appearing at mainstream events like the Kentucky Derby—fair moderation becomes vital for esports credibility.

Players globally now question whether similar anti-cheat mechanisms could deter innovators who push characters beyond perceived viability. Community-driven campaigns continue urging Cygames to implement manual review protocols for high-ranked players.

Ryazo’s Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising ban underscores a fragile balance between anti-fraud systems and competitive integrity. As automated tools evolve, developers must prioritize nuanced oversight to protect skilled players who redefine a game’s meta. Follow official GBVSR channels for updates on this developing story.

Must Know

Q: Who is Ryazo in Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising?
A: Ryazo is a top-ranked GBVSR competitor who placed 3rd at the 2024 ARC World Tour Finals, earning $10,000. He’s known for mastering technically challenging characters.

Q: Why is Anila considered weak in GBVSR?
A: Anila suffers from slow projectiles, easily punished aerial approaches, and limited combo potential. Most tier lists rank her among the game’s least viable fighters.

Q: Could Ryazo’s ban be reversed?
A: Community advocacy efforts continue, but Cygames hasn’t commented. Manual review of his stream archives could prove his legitimacy.

Q: How does this affect Granblue Fantasy Versus Rising’s esports scene?
A: Unresolved bans risk deterring top talent. The game’s recent visibility—including appearances at events like EVO and Kentucky Derby—makes fair moderation essential.

Q: What’s the Grand Master rank in GBVSR?
A: It’s the highest competitive tier, requiring 10,000 “crystals” (ranked points). Ryazo is the first to achieve this with Anila.