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Valorant Esports Calendar 2025 – All Information About Tournaments

Satyam Kumar
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Valorant Esports Calendar 2025 – All Information About Tournaments

With 2024 now behind us, Valorant fans around the globe are eagerly looking forward to the launch of the 2025 Valorant Champions Tour (VCT). 

Riot’s revamped format for the VCT 2025 season promises an action-packed esports calendar, offering fans an exciting year of competition featuring the world’s top Valorant teams.

Whether you’re an avid Valorant esports enthusiast or simply eager to support your favorite teams, you’ll want to know what exciting tournaments Riot Games has lined up for the upcoming season.

In this article, we’ll take a look at the list of upcoming Valorant tournaments in 2025 that you just can’t miss.

Valorant Tournament Calendar 2025

Without further ado, let’s dive into the lineup of Valorant events scheduled for 2025:

TournamentDatePrize Pool (USD)No. of TeamsLocatioon
VCT 2025: China KickoffJan 11 – 2512Shanghai
VCT 2025: Americas KickoffJan 16 – Feb 0812Los Angeles
VCT 2025: EMEA KickoffJan 15 – Feb 0912Berlin
VCT 2025: Pacific KickoffJan 18 – Feb 0912Seoul
VALORANT Masters Bangkok 2025Feb 20 – Mar 02$500,0008Bangkok
VCT 2025: China Stage 1Mar 13 – May 0412Shanghai
VALORANT Masters Toronto 2025Jun 07 – 22$1,000,00012Toronto
VCT 2025: China Stage 2Jul 01 – Aug 0112Shanghai
VALORANT Champions 2025Sep 12 – Oct 05$2,250,00012Paris

This wraps up the list of all the Valorant events in the VCT 2025 season.

Is Counter Strike 2 and CS:GO Different?

Sarjyo Mukherjee
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Is Counter Strike 2 and CS:GO Different?

Counter-Strike 2(CS2) and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive(CS: GO) can be easily confused by new players for being the same game but the truth is far from it. If you are one of them then this article is for you.

Counter-Strike franchise is one of the longest-standing esports franchises in the world which has seen several versions before becoming what it is today. What originally started as MOD for Half-Life, became the most popular FPS esports title in the world.

In the year 2000, Valve dropped Counter-Strike as an independent title separated from Half-Life. Three years later, we witnessed the launch of CS 1.6 which eventually established a global competitive scene for the game. CS 1.6 was succeeded by CS Source in 2004 followed by CS: GO was released in 2012 and finally CS2 in 2023.

CS: GO ran for over a decade and was responsible for the biggest boom in player count the game had ever seen. It set the standard for global penetration for an esports title given no other game at the time could replicate its global presence.

CS: GO dominated the esports industry for years before Valve launched CS2 in 2012. While the transition was far from smooth given the optimization issues that plagued CS2 in its early days as time passed, Valve completely ported its entire player base and esports scene to the new game.

CS2 is the latest iteration in the Counter-Strike franchise which succeeded CS: GO. The transition to the new game made sure that the fundamentals of the game are retained and anyone who enjoyed CS: GO is expected to come across a similar experience when playing CS2.

Breaking Down the Biggest Prize Pools in Esports History

Alex77
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Breaking Down the Biggest Prize Pools in Esports History

Esports have become a huge industry. These days, gaming tournaments have prize pools in the millions. From MOBA titles like Dota 2 to first-person shooters like CS:GO, players now fight for life-altering rewards.

Let’s take a look at the largest prize pools in esports history. And we’ll look at how these tournaments became so popular.

How Esports Prize Pools Grew

Previously, esports prize pools were tiny. Competitive gaming was a hobby, not a profession. But gaming’s popularity changed things.

They grew their prize pools by sponsorships, partnership, and crowdfunding. These days, fans purchase in-game items or passes as a way to support tournaments. Just like Twitch and YouTube, platforms depend on ad revenues and subscriptions.

1. The International: Dota 2’s Record-Breaker

TI is a Dota 2 tournament, or more accurately a tournament for the game Dota 2. It is renowned for its enormous prize pools. The game’s developer, Valve, uses crowdfunding to enhance the rewards.

In 2021, TI10 had the biggest prize pool in esports history—$40 million. The winning team, Team Spirit, took home $18 million. That’s more than what many athletes earn in a year.

And there’s no better way to highlight just how passionate the Dota 2 community truly is than at this tournament. Fans are also an integral part of making it a success.

2. League of Legends World Championship

Worlds is one of the biggest events in esports: the League of Legends World Championship. Its prize pools may not match TI or Fortnite, but Worlds is a cultural event.

(The prize pool was $2.2 million in 2022.) The real value of the event comes down to its production. Riot Games uses music, lights and even holograms to put on a show.

Worlds also has a worldwide footprint. It features teams from Asia, Europe and North America.

3. Fortnite World Cup: A Game-Changer

The Fortnite World Cup was big news in 2019. Fortnite’s developer, Epic Games, had established a $30 million prize pool for the event.

The event featured numerous contests, from solos to duos. Kyle “Bugha” Giersdorf, a 16-year-old, took home the solo title. He made $3 million, overnight becoming a celebrity in the world of gaming.

Epic Games used this tournament to demonstrate that Fortnite is a lot more than a game. It’s also a global appeal competitive platform.

4. CS:GO Majors: A Classic Esports Scene

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) is one of the oldest esports titles. Its tournaments are called “Majors.”

The PGL Stockholm Major in 2021 had a prize pool of 2 million dollars. This is the highest in CS:GO history.

CS:GO is over a decade old, after all. It can rely on its dedicated community of fans and the competitive aspect that keeps it an esports giant.

5. PUBG Global Championship

The esports world has been swept up in battle royale games. Player Unknown’s Battlegrounds, abbreviated as PUBG, is one of the front runners in this genre.

The prize pool for the PUBG Global Championship (PGC) 2021 was $2,000,000 USD. Players fought on large maps to be the last team remaining.

This was a great example of how fun a competitive battle royale can be.

What These Tournaments Represent

Big prize pools go beyond just money. They demonstrate how much esports has evolved. Events like these are made possible by the joint efforts and hard work of developers, sponsors, and fans alike!

These tournaments are about stories, too. Teams have challenges, breakthroughs and victories. They motivate players and fans like.

How Fans Drive Prize Pools

Prize pools are heavily dependent on fans. They acquire Battle Passes or in-game items in games, like Dota 2. A portion of the money goes in the prize pool.

This allows for a community feeling. Fans consider themselves a part of the tournament’s success. It’s a win-win for everyone.

The Next Steps for Esports Prize Money

Esports is still growing. Bigger prize pools will probably follow as games and technologies evolve.

New VR and AR Experiences For competitive gaming more regions are also embracing esports and are bringing in new talent and sponsors.

Things are looking positive for players and fans going forward.

Responsible Esports Engagement

Esports is exciting to watch. And the level of strategy, teamwork and skill, of course, makes it thrilling for fans across the globe.

And if you really want to feel the thrill, you can also bet on live e-sport matches to add another level of engagement. Nonetheless, always bet on esports responsibly and only for entertainment purposes, as it’s a game of chance, and winning isn’t guaranteed.

The Largest esports prize pools showcase the industry’s success and growth. These events are more than competitions from The International to Fortnite World Cup. They are celebrations of games and community.

With the growth of esports, we can only expect bigger prize pools and more memorable moments. Esports is just getting started and will be a great ride!

Iker Casillas TOTY Icon Coming Soon in EA FC 25: Report

Aritra Patra
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0
Iker Casillas TOTY Icon Coming Soon in EA FC 25: Report

Whispers are circulating amongst the EA FC fans, with reputable leaker FUT Sheriff hinting at a highly anticipated addition to the upcoming Team of the Year (TOTY) promo in EA FC 25. The legendary Spanish goalkeeper, Iker Casillas, is rumored to receive a significantly boosted Icon version, potentially becoming one of the most coveted goalkeepers in Ultimate Team.

Casillas is undoubtedly one of the best goalkeepers in the game. His dominance during his Real Madrid era cemented his status as one of the greatest goalkeepers in football history. This pedigree makes him a prime candidate for a TOTY Icon card, a distinction reserved for the most exceptional players.  

TOTY Icons are renowned for their exceptional in-game performance, boasting not only superior stats but also invaluable chemistry boosts that enhance the entire squad. This makes the prospect of an Iker Casillas TOTY Icon particularly enticing for players looking to build competitive Ultimate Teams.

While the exact stats and overall rating remain under wraps, FUT Sheriff predicts a formidable 93-rated card with exceptional attributes. Key areas like diving, reflexes, and positioning are expected to receive significant boosts, further solidifying his status as a defensive stalwart. Additionally, the inclusion of PlayStyle+ traits like Far Reach+ and Footwork+ is rumored, to enhance his shot-stopping prowess even further.

Predicting the cost of such a highly sought-after card is challenging. Considering his base 90-rated Icon currently commands a price of around 250,000 coins in the transfer market, a price range of around 500,000 coins for the boosted TOTY Icon seems plausible.

Would you like to have the Iker Casillas TOTY card in the game? Keep following us and we will bring an in-depth guide on how to get the card in the game.

PUBG Mobile Sacred Quartet Abilities Explained

Moin Khot
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PUBG Mobile Sacred Quartet Abilities Explained

In its latest 3.6 update, PUBG Mobile has introduced a range of powerful new abilities that are changing the way players fight for the Winner Winner Chicken Dinner — PUBG Mobile Sacred Quartet Abilities. This update includes special power-ups that give you greater control over your battlefield strategies and enhance the thrill of combat. Below is a detailed look at everything you need to know about these new abilities and how they fit into PUBG Mobile’s fast-paced gameplay.

PUBG Mobile Sacred Quartet Abilities Overview

The PUBG Mobile 3.6 update brings a fresh layer of excitement to the game by introducing several new abilities. These PUBG Mobile Sacred Quartet Abilities are designed to encourage creative, team-based strategies and help players dominate the battlefield. Unlike minor patches, Version 3.6 places a strong emphasis on reimagining core gameplay.

Supply Scan

This ability helps locate high-tier loot on the map. This gives you and your squad a better chance of landing game-changing weapons and gear before the competition does.

Lucky Backpack

The Lucky Backpack can store extra items or upgrade specific items during a match. This boosts your chances of survival and provides on-the-go flexibility for ammo and med kits.

Gliding Doll

Perfect for players who love aerial maneuvers, the Gliding Doll allows you to traverse high terrain easily, glide across the map, or make swift escapes from intense firefights.

Vehicle Air Drop

Calling in a vehicle from the sky is now possible with the Vehicle Air Drop ability. This not only saves time when rotating across the map but also ensures your team has a reliable mode of transport during high-pressure situations.

The PUBG Mobile Sacred Quartet adds a fun new element to the game with abilities that give you the flexibility. Whether you’re a seasoned player or just getting started, these abilities can heighten both excitement and strategy in every match.

Stay ahead in the world of esports with the TalkEsport app! Download now to get instant access to the latest news, live points tables, comprehensive esports calendars, and live streams of your favorite tournaments. Don’t miss out—get the app today

Counter Strike 2 System Requirements: Can I Run It?

Sarjyo Mukherjee
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Counter Strike 2 System Requirements: Can I Run It?

Counter-Strike 2 is here and if you are wondering if your PC surpasses the minimum requirements to run the game then this article is for you.

Arguably the best competitive shooter in the world, Counter-Strike 2 is one of the most popular FPS games millions of concurrent players enjoy. If you believe that the jump from CS:GO to CS2 will require the latest and greatest PC parts, then you are in luck. Despite a decade’s worth of the gap between the two games, there is only a marginal increase in the minimum system requirements.

While it never hurts to have top-of-the-line hardware for gaming, especially competitive ones like CS2, the developers made sure to keep the specifications reasonable to retain a big part of the player base who can have a similar experience with improved visuals while taking subtle hits in performance.

CS2 minimum requirements

  • Memory: 8 GB
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce 610M
  • CPU: Intel Core i5-750
  • File Size: 85 GB
  • OS: Windows 10

CS2 recommended specs

  • Memory: 16 GB
  • Graphics Card: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2070
  • CPU: Intel Core i7-9700K
  • File Size: 85 GB
  • OS: up to Windows 11

While the minimum specifications required to run the game are affordable, we strongly advise you to get an upgrade if you have anything resembling the aforementioned specifications. The game being a competitive shooter, your PC not only needs to run it flawlessly but it needs to do so while pushing enough frames for you to keep up with the rest of the players.

Goes without saying that professional players use settings that trade visual experience for performance despite having the best of the best computers. It is completely up to you how you want to play it but a good computer is a fundamental requirement unless you want to lose your competitive edge in the game,

Genshin Impact 5.3 Phase 2 Banners: Event Schedule and Characters

Sonu Banerjee
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Genshin Impact 5.3 Phase 2 Banners: Event Schedule and Characters

With the second phase of Genshin Impact version 5.3 just around the corner, HoYoverse has officially shed light on the details of the upcoming character and weapon banners that the Phase 2 update will bring to the game.

If you’re a fan of Genshin Impact, there’s plenty of new content to look forward to in the version 5.3 Phase 2 update of the open-world action RPG. These include the highly anticipated Lantern Rite event, log-in rewards, alongside new banners with some of the most sought-after characters.

Without further ado, let’s check out the details of the Genshin Impact version 5.3 Phase 2 banners, as revealed by HoYoverse.

Genshin Impact Version 5.3 Phase 2 Banners

Event Wishes

The Phase 2 banners for Genshin Impact version 5.3 will officially hit the live servers on January 21, 2025, at 6 pm server time. Fans will have until February 11th to grab the banners before they are gone.

Take a look at all the characters and weapons included in the banner below:

Characters

  • Arlecchino (5-star Pyro)
  • Clorinde (5-star Electro)
  • Lan Yan (4-star Anemo)
  • Chevreuse (4-star Pyro)
  • Rosaria (4-star Cryo)

Weapons

  • Crimson Moon’s Semblance (5-star Polearm)
  • Absolution (5-star Sword)
  • Lithic Spear (4-star Polearm)
  • Lion’s Roar (4-star Sword)
  • Rainslasher (4-star Claymore)
  • The Widsith (4-star Catalyst)
  • Sacrificial Bow (4-star Bow)

Chronicled Wish

Genshin Impact version 5.3 Chronicled Wish event banner will be available starting January 21 at 6:00 PM server time and will run until February 11 at 2:59 PM server time. Here’s a breakdown of its confirmed contents, as revealed by the devs:

Characters

  • Baizhu (5-star Dendro – Catalyst)
  • Shenhe (5-star Cryo – Polearm)
  • Keqing (5-star Electro – Sword)
  • Ganyu (5-star Cryo – Bow)
  • Xiao (5-star Anemo – Polearm)
  • Tartaglia (5-star Hydro – Bow)
  • Qiqi (5-star Cryo – Sword)
  • Gaming (4-star Pyro – Claymore)
  • Yaoyao (4-star Dendro – Polearm)
  • Yun Jin (4-star Geo – Polearm)
  • Yanfei (4-star Pyro – Catalyst)
  • Xinyan (4-star Pyro – Claymore)
  • Chongyun (4-star Cryo – Claymore)
  • Ningguang (4-star Geo – Catalyst)
  • Xingqiu (4-star Hydro – Sword)
  • Beidou (4-star Electro – Claymore)
  • Xiangling (4-star Pyro – Polearm)

Weapons

  • Primordial Jade Cutter (5-star Sword)
  • Summit Shaper (5-star Sword)
  • The Unforged (5-star Claymore)
  • Calamity Queller (5-star Polearm)
  • Primordial Jade-Winged Spear (5-star Polearm)
  • Jadefall’s Splendor (5-star Catalyst)
  • Memory of Dust (5-star Catalyst)
  • Polar Star (5-star Bow)
  • Amos’ Bow (5-star Bow)
  • Lion’s Roar (4-star Sword)
  • Sacrificial Sword (4-star Sword)
  • The Flute (4-star Sword)
  • Favonius Sword (4-star Sword)
  • Lithic Blade (4-star Sword)
  • Rainslasher (4-star Claymore)
  • Sacrificial Greatsword (4-star Claymore)
  • The Bell (4-star Claymore)
  • Favonius Greatsword (4-star Claymore)
  • Favonius Lance (4-star Polearm)
  • Lithic Spear (4-star Polearm)
  • Dragon’s Bane (4-star Polearm)
  • Eye of Perception (4-star Catalyst)
  • Sacrificial Fragments (4-star Catalyst)
  • The Widsith (4-star Catalyst)
  • Favonius Codex (4-star Catalyst)
  • Rust (4-star Bow)
  • Sacrificial Bow (4-star Bow)
  • The Stringless (4-star Bow)
  • Favonius Warbow (4-star Bow)

Nintendo Officially Reveals Switch 2

Aritra Patra
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0
Nintendo Officially Reveals Switch 2

The long-awaited successor to the Nintendo Switch has finally been revealed. In a surprise announcement, Nintendo showcased the “Nintendo Switch 2” in a brief trailer, confirming the long-rumored hardware upgrade.  

The new console, while retaining the hybrid form factor, boasts a larger screen and redesigned Joy-Con controllers. Notable design changes include an additional USB-C port and a more versatile kickstand with enhanced viewing angles. While the trailer provided a glimpse of the console’s physical appearance, technical specifications remain under wraps for now.  

A key highlight of the Switch 2 is its exclusive game library. Nintendo confirmed that the new console will feature titles unavailable on the original Switch, signaling a significant leap in hardware capabilities.

Backward compatibility with the existing Switch library was also emphasized, ensuring that players can enjoy a vast majority of their existing games on the upgraded system. However, Nintendo acknowledged that some titles may exhibit limited compatibility or require adjustments.

The trailer offered a tantalizing glimpse into the future with the showcase of what appears to be a new Mario Kart game running seamlessly on the Switch 2 in both handheld and docked modes. The game featured character redesigns, hinting at a significant visual overhaul. This strategic reveal echoes Nintendo’s approach with Super Mario Odyssey, where an early glimpse of the game preceded a full-fledged Nintendo Direct presentation.

In the coming months, Nintendo will provide further details on the Switch 2. A dedicated Nintendo Direct scheduled for April 2nd will delve deeper into the console’s features and software. Furthermore, a “Switch 2 Experience” will commence in April and continue through June, offering hands-on opportunities for players to interact with the console firsthand at select locations worldwide.

How to Pre-Order Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves?

Aritra Patra
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0
How to Pre-Order Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves?

After a quarter-century of absence, SNK’s beloved Fatal Fury franchise returns with “City of the Wolves,” reviving the spirit of classic 2D fighters for a new generation. This revival promises a revamped take on the series’ signature combat, offering a unique experience.

Whether you’re a casual or a competitive player eyeing Evo 2025 glory, understanding the available editions is crucial. Without wasting time, let’s check out all the editions and rewards of Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves.

Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves Editions

City of the Wolves
  • Standard Edition
    • Includes the base game.
    • Offers a modest set of launch bonuses.
  • Special Edition
    • Includes the base game.
    • Features the Season Pass 1 DLC, granting access to all five planned post-launch characters.
  • Deluxe Edition (Physical Only)
    • Includes the base game and Season Pass 1 DLC.
    • Bundled with a Steelbook case, two original soundtracks, a 100+ page artbook, a collector’s box, and Fatal Fury stickers.  

Season Pass 1 Content

The Season Pass 1 will introduce five guest characters, including iconic fighters like Chun-Li and Ken from the Street Fighter series. While specific release dates are yet to be announced, Ken is slated for Summer 2025 and Chun-Li for Winter 2025, as per the Steam listing.  

Pre-Order Bonus

All pre-orders, regardless of edition, will grant early access to the game three days before the official launch (April 21st instead of April 23rd). Additionally, a special launch bonus awaits which is an exclusive Fatal Fury 2 costume for Terry Bogard. While this costume will be initially exclusive to pre-orders, SNK has indicated a potential future release as a separate purchase.

Rockstar Stops GTA 5 Liberty City Mod

Satyam Kumar
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Rockstar Stops GTA 5 Liberty City Mod

Rockstar Games has shut down the popular GTA 5 Liberty City Preservation Project mod. This mod, created by the World Travel team, aimed to recreate Liberty City from GTA 4 within GTA 5. The decision to shut down the project came after discussions with Rockstar Games.

What Was the Liberty City Preservation Project?

The Liberty City Preservation Project was a mod that brought the iconic Liberty City from GTA 4 into GTA 5. The mod included many features from the original game, such as NPCs, vehicles, sound effects, and even a fully functioning subway system. It was praised for its accuracy and attention to detail.

Why Was It Shut Down?

Rockstar Games requested the shutdown of the mod due to the unexpected attention it received. The modding team, World Travel, announced the decision on their Discord server. They stated that they appreciated the support the project received but decided to take it down after speaking with Rockstar Games.

Community Reaction

The gaming community has had mixed reactions to the shutdown. Many fans were disappointed and frustrated with Rockstar Games for shutting down the mod. Some speculated that Rockstar might be planning an official remaster of GTA 4, but there has been no official announcement on this.

Impact on Modding Community

The shutdown of the Liberty City Preservation Project is not an isolated incident. Rockstar Games has a history of requesting the removal of mods for their games. This has led to frustration within the modding community, as many feel that their creative efforts are being stifled.

Future of the Modding Team

Despite the shutdown, the World Travel team has expressed their passion for modding and their intention to continue working on mods for the Grand Theft Auto series. They have not provided specific details on their next project but remain committed to the modding community.

The shutdown of the Liberty City Preservation Project has sparked a lot of discussion within the gaming community. While some fans are disappointed, others are hopeful that the modding team will continue to create amazing mods for the Grand Theft Auto series. The future remains uncertain, but the passion for modding continues to thrive.

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