Esports is a fast changing world and with the launch of Counter-Strike 2, the competitive landscape is about to see major changes. The format of major tournament finals is one of the most debated topics among fans and professionals. At the moment, many finals are best of three (Bo3), but there is more and more talk about best of five (Bo5) finals. In this article I will explain why Bo5 finals should be used in Counter-Strike 2 Majors, discussing the positives and negatives.
BO5 Finals are a better alternative to current three game formats.
The Case for Best-of-Five Finals
- Competitive Integrity Enhanced
The Bo5 format means the team that is better on the day actually wins. In a Bo3 a couple mistakes, or even a single map loss can completely decide the outcome. Bo5 allows teams to bounce back from early blips and show their depth and adaptability across multiple maps. This format minimises the impact of flukes and focuses on consistent performance, which is what we need to see in order to identify the best team.
- Greater Viewer Engagement
Esports fans are passionate and they are dedicated. They offer a richer viewing experience because they are longer, and more intense. Bo5s can be great for creating epic narratives with comebacks and momentum shifts. The extended format of this version also gives a more detailed analysis and commentary to the overall spectator experience.
- New revenue opportunities
From the business point of view, longer finals translates into more slots for advertising and sponsorship. It gives event organisers the opportunity to bring more value to sponsors and provides broadcasters with more airtime to capitalise on. This additional revenue can go back into the scene to increase the production value of the scene, as well as prize pools, all of which are good for the ecosystem as a whole.
Addressing Potential Concerns
- Player Fatigue
The most common argument against Bo5 finals is the players get tired. But, with the right schedule or breaks, this can be avoided. These are professional athletes and if they’re prepared properly they can deal with a Bo5 series. Also, the thrill and the prestige of a major final can give you the adrenaline rush needed to overlook exhaustion.
- Scheduling Conflicts
Matches that are longer may create scheduling conflicts in tournaments where there is a tight timeline. To resolve this, the organisers can schedule some days to be for finals while giving enough days for a Bo5 series without affecting other matches. It also means starting finals earlier in the day so that finals don’t finish late at night and inconvenience both players and viewers.
- Viewer Fatigue
Though matches lasting longer might be exhausting to some viewers, the vast majority of esports fans love it. Broadcasters can provide highlights and condensed versions of the matches to meet the preferences of different individuals. By doing this, casual viewers can still watch the highlights without having to watch the whole thing.
Bo5 finals in Counter-Strike 2 Majors are a step towards a more competitive and engaging scene for both viewers and upping the financial viability of the scene. There are challenges to overcome, but the benefits greatly outweigh the negatives. Given the continued growth of the esports industry, it is important to continue to embrace formats that increase the quality and excitement of competitions. Counter-Strike 2 Majors need to make the jump to the next level of excellence in esports.
