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Vertigo Absent as Dust2 Dominates BLAST Premier Fall Final 2024

Satyam Kumar
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Vertigo Absent as Dust2 Dominates BLAST Premier Fall Final 2024

During the BLAST Premier Fall Final 2024, held at the Forum Copenhagen, a notable trend emerged: Vertigo, one of the maps in the Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) rotation, was conspicuously absent from the selection. Throughout the group stage and playoffs, spanning 13 series, not a single team opted to play on Vertigo. This avoidance highlights the map’s ongoing struggle to gain favor among top-tier teams.

Dust2, on the other hand, dominated the tournament. It was played nine times, making it the most popular map of the event. Every team in attendance played on Dust2 at least once, with G2 Esports featuring it in all five of their series. G2’s performance on Dust2 was impressive, losing only once to Natus Vincere (NAVI) in the final match of Group A, but they avenged this loss by defeating NAVI in the grand final.

The reluctance to pick Vertigo is not a new phenomenon. The map has consistently been one of the least favored in the professional circuit. During ESL Pro League Season 20, Vertigo was the least played map, a trend that continued into the BLAST Fall Showdown. Complexity, known for their preference for Vertigo, did not make it to the Fall Final, which might have contributed to the map’s absence.

Vertigo’s design, which features multiple vertical levels and a unique layout, presents a distinct set of challenges. These elements can lead to unpredictable gameplay, which might be why teams are hesitant to choose it in high-stakes matches. The map’s complexity requires precise coordination and strategy, and any misstep can be costly.

In contrast, Dust2’s straightforward layout and long-standing presence in the CS2 map pool make it a reliable choice for teams. Its familiarity allows for more predictable and controlled gameplay, which is crucial in a competitive setting. The map’s popularity at the BLAST Premier Fall Final underscores its enduring appeal and strategic importance.

The BLAST Premier Fall Final 2024 saw G2 Esports emerge victorious, claiming the trophy and a $200,000 prize. Their journey through the tournament was marked by strong performances, particularly on Dust2. The grand final against NAVI was a thrilling encounter, with G2 ultimately securing the win and solidifying their status as one of the top teams in the CS2 scene.

As the CS2 community looks ahead to future tournaments, the question remains whether Vertigo will ever gain the same level of acceptance as maps like Dust2. For now, its absence at the BLAST Premier Fall Final serves as a reminder of the map’s ongoing struggle to find its place in the competitive landscape.

FMPONE Teases Exciting Updates to CS:GO Map Cache

Satyam Kumar
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Renowned map creator Shawn “FMPONE” Snelling has teased further updates to the T-side of the popular map Cache. This news comes as a breath of fresh air for fans eagerly awaiting the map’s return to the competitive pool.

Cache, a staple in the Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) map rotation, was officially removed from the map pool in early 2019 to make way for Vertigo. The reworked version of Cache was showcased at ESL One New York later that year, featuring overgrown vegetation that, while visually appealing, caused performance issues for players due to its high demand on graphics cards. This, coupled with the visual clash with several agent models, led to the map taking a backseat while others like Anubis and Ancient were promoted into the map pool.

FMPONE, who has been instrumental in creating several iconic maps, has been diligently working on the Cache remake. His recent tweet, which included images of the updated T-side, has reignited excitement among the community. The images showcase various angles, including views towards Van from T-spawn, the approach to Squeaky, and a perspective looking back from Squeaky. These updates hint at a more refined and balanced gameplay experience, addressing previous concerns while maintaining the map’s competitive integrity.

The anticipation for Cache’s return is palpable. The map’s removal in 2019 was met with mixed reactions, as it had been a favorite among players and fans alike. Its unique layout and strategic depth made it a beloved choice in both casual and professional play. The reworked version, despite its initial setbacks, holds promise for a triumphant return, especially with FMPONE’s continued dedication to refining the map.

In addition to his work on Cache, FMPONE has also been busy with other projects. His map Thera, a reimagined version of the CS:GO map Santorini, modeled on the picturesque Greek city, was recently added to the community map pool. Alongside Thera, Mills, set in a quaint yet claustrophobic Dutch village, has also made its way into the pool. These additions highlight FMPONE’s versatility and commitment to enhancing the CS:GO map landscape.

The Counter-Strike community has been vocal about their desire to see Cache back in the competitive rotation. The map’s unique challenges and opportunities for strategic play have left a lasting impression, and many believe its return could shake up the current meta. With FMPONE’s latest updates, the possibility of Cache making a comeback seems more likely than ever.

As the community eagerly awaits further news, one thing is clear: FMPONE’s dedication to his craft continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in map design. Whether it’s through the intricate details of Cache or the fresh perspectives offered by Thera and Mills, his contributions are shaping the future of Counter-Strike.

Could the finished version of Cache be on its way soon? Only time will tell, but for now, the community remains hopeful and excited for what lies ahead.

Fortnite Spider-Woman Skin Release Date and What to Expect | Esports News

Satyam Kumar
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In an exciting development for Fortnite enthusiasts, the popular battle royale game is set to introduce another iconic Marvel character to its roster. Spider-Woman, a beloved figure from the Spider-Man comic series, is poised to make her debut in the game, adding to the ever-expanding universe of superheroes within Fortnite.

A Marvelous Addition

The announcement, confirmed by renowned leaker ShiinaBR, has sent waves of excitement through the Fortnite community. Spider-Woman’s arrival is perfectly timed with the onset of Fortnitemares 2024, the game’s annual Halloween event, promising a thrilling October for players. While the exact release date remains under wraps, speculation suggests that the Spider-Woman skin will be available in the Fortnite Item Shop between October 11 and 15.

Which Spider-Woman?

One of the intriguing aspects of this new addition is the mystery surrounding which version of Spider-Woman will be featured. The character has appeared in various forms across comics and films, including the recent “Across the Spider-Verse” series. While ShiinaBR’s source did not specify whether this skin is based on the comic series or the Spider-Verse films, the anticipation is palpable. Given the game’s history of incorporating characters like Miles Morales, Spider-Man 2099, and Spider-Gwen, fans are eager to see how Spider-Woman will be portrayed.

Fortnitemares 2024: A Spooky Season

Spider-Woman’s introduction is just one highlight of Fortnitemares 2024. This year’s Halloween event promises a host of new skins and collaborations. Among the anticipated additions are Leatherface from the Texas Chainsaw Massacre series and Billy the Puppet from the Saw series. Additionally, a new Marshmello Icon Series variant and updates to the Fortnite x The Nightmare Before Christmas collaboration are expected to enhance the spooky season.

The Evolution of Fortnite’s Marvel Universe

Fortnite’s collaboration with Marvel has been a significant aspect of the game’s evolution. From the inclusion of Iron Man and Thor to the recent addition of Spider-Gwen, the game has continually expanded its superhero roster, offering players a diverse range of characters to choose from. Spider-Woman’s arrival is a testament to this ongoing partnership and the game’s commitment to providing fresh and exciting content for its players.

What to Expect

While details about the Spider-Woman skin’s appearance and associated cosmetics remain scarce, the excitement is undeniable. Players are eagerly awaiting the chance to don the new skin and explore the game’s Halloween-themed updates. As the release date approaches, more information is expected to surface, providing a clearer picture of what players can look forward to.

Spider-Woman’s addition to Fortnite is a thrilling development for fans of the game and Marvel enthusiasts alike. As Fortnitemares 2024 kicks off, players can expect a season filled with new skins, exciting collaborations, and plenty of Halloween-themed fun. Stay tuned for more updates as the release date draws near, and get ready to swing into action with Spider-Woman in Fortnite.

The Controversy Behind Bleed Esports’ Ban from VCT 2025

Pranav Nalawade
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Riot Games has announced that Bleed Esports will not be participating in the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) 2025. This decision has sent ripples through the esports community, leaving fans and analysts alike scrambling for answers. The Singaporean organization, which has been a staple in the competitive Valorant scene, was removed due to a failure to meet “critical reporting requirements” and other key obligations under the Team Participation Agreement (TPA).

The Announcement and Immediate Reactions

The news broke through an official post on X (formerly Twitter) by Riot Games, detailing the reasons behind the drastic measure. According to the statement, Bleed Esports failed to comply with essential reporting requirements, which are crucial for the smooth operation of the tournaments. This non-compliance, coupled with persistent operational failures, led to their removal from the upcoming VCT 2025 and VCT Pacific tournaments.

Fans were quick to express their disappointment and confusion. Bleed Esports, known for its competitive spirit and talented roster, including the renowned player yay, had become a fan favorite. The sudden announcement left many questioning the transparency and fairness of Riot’s decision-making process.

The Underlying Issues

While Riot Games cited “critical reporting requirements” as the primary reason, the specifics remain somewhat vague. The TPA, which governs the participation of teams in the VCT, includes various obligations that teams must fulfill to ensure the integrity and smooth functioning of the league. These can range from financial disclosures to maintaining certain operational standards.

Bleed Esports’ failure to meet these requirements suggests deeper issues within the organization. Operational inefficiencies and possible mismanagement could have contributed to their inability to comply with Riot’s stringent standards. This isn’t the first time a team has faced such consequences, but it is rare for Riot to take such a severe step, indicating the gravity of the situation.

Impact on the Players and the Community

The removal of Bleed Esports from VCT 2025 has significant implications for the players and the broader Valorant community. Players who were part of the Bleed roster now find themselves in a precarious position, needing to seek new opportunities in a highly competitive environment. Riot Games has assured that affected players were notified in advance to help them transition smoothly, but the sudden nature of the announcement has undoubtedly created uncertainty.

For the fans, this decision is a major blow. Bleed Esports had built a loyal following, and their absence from the VCT 2025 will be felt deeply. The community has been vocal about their support for the team, and many are calling for more transparency from Riot Games regarding the specifics of the violations.

Boom Esports Steps In

In the wake of Bleed Esports’ removal, Riot Games has promoted Boom Esports, the runner-up of VCT Ascension Pacific 2024, to fill the vacated spot. Boom Esports, an Indonesian team, narrowly missed out on the top spot in the Ascension Pacific event, losing to Sin Prisa Gaming in a nail-biting final. Their promotion to the VCT Pacific 2025 is a significant opportunity for the team to prove their mettle on a larger stage.

Boom Esports’ inclusion ensures that the VCT Pacific will proceed with the planned 12-team format. The team has expressed their excitement and readiness to compete at the highest level, although they, too, were caught off guard by the sudden turn of events.

The Road Ahead

As the dust settles, the focus now shifts to the future. Bleed Esports will need to address the internal issues that led to their removal if they hope to return to the competitive scene. For Riot Games, this incident underscores the importance of maintaining strict compliance standards to uphold the integrity of the VCT.

The Valorant community will be watching closely as the VCT 2025 unfolds, eager to see how Boom Esports performs and whether Bleed Esports can make a comeback in the future. This episode serves as a reminder of the high stakes and rigorous demands of professional esports, where operational excellence is just as crucial as in-game performance.

Five Teams Secure Spots for ESL Impact League Season 6 Finals

Satyam Kumar
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Five teams have secured their spots for the ESL Impact League Season 6 Finals. The competition, which has been fierce and unrelenting, saw Imperial fe, NIP Impact, FURIA fe, Fluxo Demons, and FlyQuest RED rise to the top, each demonstrating exceptional skill and strategy.

Imperial fe: The reigning champions, Imperial fe, showcased their dominance once again by dropping just one map to BIG EQUIPA in Europe’s Group A. Despite this minor setback, they managed to scrape through victories against HSG fe and dream catchers fe, securing their place in the finals. Their journey has been nothing short of spectacular, and they are poised to defend their title with vigor.

NIP Impact: For the first time since entering the women’s Counter-Strike scene in Season 3, NIP Impact has qualified for the LAN final. Their performance in Group B was commendable, with a 4-0 record that included a crucial win over NAVI Javelins. The addition of Ksenia “vilga” Kluenkova in July has evidently paid off, bolstering their lineup and strategy.

FURIA fe and Fluxo Demons: The South American teams, FURIA fe and Fluxo Demons, have also made their mark. Both teams went undefeated through the round-robin group stage, with FURIA fe not dropping a single map over six series. Their recent victory in the Gamers Club Women Super Cup 2024 over MIBR fe further cements their status as formidable contenders.

FlyQuest RED: Representing North America, FlyQuest RED secured their spot with an impressive 6-0 run through their group stage. With only an inconsequential series against Aware fe left to play, they have proven themselves to be a dominant force in the region.

The ESL Impact League Season 6 Finals, set to take place from November 22-24 in Stockholm, Sweden, promises to be an electrifying event. The competition will feature a prize pool of $150,000, with eight teams battling it out for the top spot. The format includes a group stage with GSL-style matches, followed by single-elimination playoffs, ensuring that only the best of the best will emerge victorious.

As the finals approach, all eyes will be on these five teams to see how they perform on the grand stage. The stakes are high, and the competition is fierce, but one thing is certain: the ESL Impact League Season 6 Finals will be a spectacle to remember.

Riot Removes Bleed Esports from VCT: Boom Esports Takes Last Pacific Spot

Satyam Kumar
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Riot Games has announced the removal of Bleed Esports from the Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) Pacific League. This decision, effective immediately, follows the Singaporean organization’s failure to meet several critical reporting requirements and other key obligations under the Team Participation Agreement (TPA). The vacant spot will now be occupied by Boom Esports, the runners-up of the Ascension Pacific 2024 tournament.

The announcement, made on October 4, 2024, has reverberated through the esports community. Riot Games stated, “After careful consideration, Riot Games has made the decision to remove Bleed Esports from the Valorant Champions Tour and VCT Pacific. Bleed Esports was terminated due to failure to comply with critical reporting requirements and other key obligations under the Team Participation Agreement. Due to persistent operational failures of the team, Bleed Esports will no longer participate in VCT Pacific to protect the best interest of the players in the league.”

Bleed Esports, which had been home to notable players like former Valorant superstar yay, has been a prominent fixture in the VCT. The team’s removal marks a significant shift in the competitive landscape of the Pacific region. Riot Games emphasized that all players affected by this decision were notified as early as possible to allow them to explore other opportunities.

The decision to promote Boom Esports to the VCT Pacific League has been met with mixed reactions. Boom Esports, who finished second in the Ascension Pacific 2024 tournament, will now have the opportunity to compete at the highest level of Valorant competition in the region. This move ensures that the VCT Pacific will proceed with the full complement of 12 teams as originally planned.

The removal of Bleed Esports underscores the stringent compliance standards set by Riot Games for its partnered teams. The organization has been clear about its expectations, and this decision highlights the importance of adhering to these standards. The esports community will be watching closely to see how Boom Esports performs in their new role and how the former Bleed Esports players adapt to their new circumstances.

This development serves as a reminder of the dynamic and often unpredictable nature of the esports industry. Teams and organizations must remain vigilant and compliant with all regulations to maintain their positions in prestigious leagues like the VCT. As Boom Esports steps into the spotlight, the Pacific region’s Valorant scene is set for an exciting new chapter.

Twitch Cracks Down on Impersonation: PewDiePie, Shroud, and Lirik Channels Briefly Banned

Satyam Kumar
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Twitch Cracks Down on Impersonation: PewDiePie, Shroud, and Lirik Channels Briefly Banned

Twitch channels associated with popular content creators PewDiePie, Shroud, and Lirik were briefly banned on October 3, 2024. This move comes amid a significant rule change by the Amazon-owned platform aimed at combating impersonation.

The channels in question were streaming VOD content and YouTube videos from their respective creators, which appears to have triggered the bans. Both the Lirik and Shroud channels have been streaming 24/7 since August and September 2024, amassing thousands of followers and hundreds of viewers. PewDiePie’s Twitch channel, on the other hand, has been active since March 2023, when he sold the rights to CoPilotMedia. This channel has since gained over a million followers and a loyal daily viewership.

The bans were lifted just under 15 minutes after they were imposed, allowing fans to resume their viewing. Twitch’s updated Community Guidelines, revealed in early September, emphasize the platform’s stance against unoriginal content and impersonation. The guidelines state, “Impersonation is a malicious practice that compromises trust in our service and can harm the target of impersonation. Content or activity meant to impersonate an individual or organization is prohibited, including impersonation of Twitch staff, celebrities, companies, or friends.”

PewDiePie

Twitch uses the example of “waiting room” streams, which are unauthorized channels rebroadcasting content from popular streamers, as a violation of these rules. This is precisely what the PewDiePie, Shroud, and Lirik channels were doing, leading to their temporary suspension.

PewDiePie’s Twitch channel has faced bans before. Shortly after its revival in March 2023, the channel was hit with two mysterious bans in May and July, prompting PewDiePie to address the situation. The Shroud and Lirik channels, which describe themselves as places for fans to “hang out,” were also scrutinized under the new guidelines.

The swift reinstatement of these channels suggests that Twitch is still fine-tuning its approach to enforcing these new rules. The platform’s efforts to maintain trust and authenticity among its community are evident, but the balance between content moderation and creator freedom remains a delicate one.

As Twitch continues to evolve its policies, content creators and viewers alike will need to stay informed and adapt to the changing landscape. The brief bans of PewDiePie, Shroud, and Lirik’s channels serve as a reminder of the platform’s commitment to combating impersonation and maintaining a trustworthy environment for its users.

IEM Rio 2024 Talent Announced

Satyam Kumar
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The talent lineup for IEM Rio 2024 has been revealed, promising an electrifying blend of seasoned commentators, insightful analysts, and charismatic hosts. This year’s roster is set to elevate the viewing experience for fans worldwide, bringing unparalleled expertise and entertainment to one of the most prestigious events in the esports calendar.

Leading the charge is the ever-popular Alex “Machine” Richardson, whose dynamic presence and deep understanding of the game have made him a staple in the esports community. Joining him is the insightful and articulate Chad “SPUNJ” Burchill, whose analytical prowess will provide viewers with in-depth breakdowns of the matches.

The commentary team is further bolstered by the inclusion of Henry “HenryG” Greer and Jason “moses” O’Toole, both of whom bring a wealth of experience and a unique perspective to the broadcast. Their chemistry and banter are sure to keep audiences engaged throughout the tournament.

Analysts and Experts

IEM Rio 2024 Talent

On the analyst desk, we have the return of Janko “YNk” Paunović, whose strategic insights and no-nonsense approach have earned him a reputation as one of the best in the business. He will be joined by Jacob “Pimp” Winneche, whose detailed knowledge of the game and ability to break down complex plays will be invaluable to viewers looking to deepen their understanding of the matches.

Rounding out the analyst team is Mathieu “Maniac” Quiquerez, whose calm demeanor and thoughtful analysis provide a perfect balance to the desk. His ability to articulate the finer points of the game makes him a favorite among both new and seasoned fans.

Hosts and Interviewers

The hosting duties will be handled by the ever-charismatic Tres “stunna” Saranthus, whose ability to keep the energy high and the conversation flowing is unmatched. He will be supported by Frankie Ward, whose engaging interview style and rapport with players bring a personal touch to the broadcast.

IEM Rio 2024 is set to be a truly global event, with talent from around the world coming together to celebrate the pinnacle of competitive Counter-Strike. The diverse lineup reflects the international nature of the tournament, ensuring that fans from all corners of the globe feel represented and connected to the action.

As the countdown to IEM Rio 2024 continues, the announcement of this stellar talent lineup has only heightened the excitement and anticipation. With such a formidable team in place, viewers can look forward to a tournament that not only showcases the best in competitive Counter-Strike but also delivers an unforgettable viewing experience.

Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO Pre-Order Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Divyesh Moghe
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As the release date for “Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO” approaches, fans of the iconic franchise are buzzing with excitement. This latest installment in the Budokai Tenkaichi series promises to be the most expansive and thrilling yet, with a plethora of features and characters that will delight both longtime followers and newcomers alike. Here’s a comprehensive guide to pre-ordering the game, including details on the various editions, bonuses, and how to secure your copy.

Editions and Pricing

“Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO” is available in three distinct editions, each offering unique content and bonuses:

  1. Standard Edition ($69.99)
    • Base game
    • Pre-order Bonus: Exclusive new playable character, Goku (Mini), and early unlocks for six characters: Gogeta, Gogeta (Super Saiyan), Gogeta (Super Saiyan God Super Saiyan), Broly, Broly (Super Saiyan), and Broly (Super Saiyan Full Power).
  2. Deluxe Edition ($99.99)
    • Base game
    • Season Pass: Includes three packs featuring content from “DRAGON BALL SUPER: SUPER HERO” and “DRAGON BALL DAIMA,” with over 20 playable characters.
    • Season Pass Bonus: Summon Shenron and three days early access to the three DLC packs.
    • Pre-order Bonus: Same as Standard Edition.
  3. Ultimate Edition ($109.99)
    • Base game
    • Season Pass: Same as Deluxe Edition.
    • Ultimate Upgrade Pack: Additional in-game items and bonuses.
    • Ultimate Edition Bonus: Summon Super Shenron and three days early access to the full game.
    • Pre-order Bonus: Same as Standard Edition.

Pre-Order Bonuses

Dragon Ball Sparking ZERO

Pre-ordering any edition of “Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO” before its launch date will grant you several exciting bonuses. These include the exclusive new playable character, Goku (Mini), and early unlocks for six powerful characters from the Dragon Ball universe. If you miss the pre-order window, these characters will be available as separate DLCs at a later date.

Release Date and Platforms

Mark your calendars for October 11, 2024, as “Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO” will be launching worldwide on this date. The game will be available on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X|S, ensuring that fans across different platforms can join in on the action.

How to Pre-Order

Pre-ordering “Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO” is straightforward. Here’s how you can secure your copy on your preferred platform:

  • PC: Visit the Steam store page, search for “Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO,” select your desired edition, and add it to your cart.
  • PlayStation 5: Head to the PlayStation Store, find the game, choose your edition, and proceed with the purchase.
  • Xbox Series X|S: Go to the Microsoft Store, locate the game, pick your edition, and complete the transaction.

Why Pre-Order?

Pre-ordering “Dragon Ball: Sparking! ZERO” not only guarantees you access to the game on launch day but also provides you with exclusive content that enhances your gaming experience. The pre-order bonuses, including the exclusive character and early unlocks, give you a head start in the game, allowing you to dive straight into the action with some of the most powerful characters in the Dragon Ball universe.

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