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VCT 2027 Format Explained: Open Qualifiers, VCT Cups, and What Changes for Every Team

Pranav Nalawade
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VCT 2027 Format Explained: Open Qualifiers, VCT Cups, and What Changes for Every Team

The Valorant Champions Tour is getting its biggest structural change since it launched.

On April 8, 2026, Riot Games officially revealed the VCT 2027 format. The core message is simple: leagues are gone. Tournaments replace them. And for the first time in VCT history, any team, partnered or not, has a direct path to Masters and Champions.

Leo Faria, Global Head of VALORANT Esports, said: “VCT 2027 is about reimagining how teams compete and how fans experience VALORANT esports. By shifting to a tournament-driven system with open access to our biggest events, we’re creating a more dynamic, high-stakes ecosystem where every match matters and every team has a shot at the global stage.”

Here is everything confirmed so far.

What Is Actually Changing in VCT 2027

Open Qualification to Masters and Champions

The current system splits the season into Stage 1 and Stage 2 league formats. Those are gone in 2027.

The VCT is moving away from its current league-based format and shifting to a tournament-driven model. Starting in 2027, any team can qualify for Masters and Champions through open qualifiers. All teams will compete in a single tier of competition.

That last part is the biggest shift. There is no longer a hard wall between Tier 1 partner teams and Tier 2 challengers. Everyone competes in the same bracket ecosystem, starting from open qualifiers.

Every team in the ecosystem will compete within a single competitive tier from 2027, with open qualifiers acting as the starting point for each season.

The format is built on three principles Riot has laid out: every match should carry weight, the path to global events should be open, and live events should visit more locations.

VCT Cups: What Are They and How Do They Work

VCT Cups

VCT Cups are the biggest new structural addition.

Traditional regional leagues are replaced with VCT Cups, which are LAN tournaments that determine the top teams in each region, featuring open qualification and live finals in new cities.

Each of the four VCT regions, which are EMEA, Americas, Pacific, and China, will host two Cups per year. That is eight Cups in total across the global calendar. Each Cup is a LAN-based tournament that determines the top teams in a given territory, concludes with a finals weekend event, and directly qualifies teams to Masters and Champions.

These are not round-robin leagues. They are bracket-style events. Short, high-stakes, and open to anyone who qualifies through the open qualifier system.

The finals of each Cup will be held in a new city, different from existing league hubs. Riot has not confirmed those locations yet.

How the Full Season Structure Works

VCT 2027 Format

The 2027 VCT season runs in three cycles.

The season opens with regional Kickoff Open Qualifiers online, feeding into the international Kickoff on LAN, which leads to the global Masters 1. The second cycle runs regional Open Qualifiers online into the international Cup 1 on LAN, with the top teams advancing to global Masters 2. The third cycle feeds into Champions.

Kickoff remains part of the calendar as the season-opening event. Kickoff qualifiers will take place in Q4 of the prior year, after Champions concludes.

Open qualifiers for each stage run at the same time as Cups and Masters. That means if a team misses one qualification window, they have another shot in the next cycle. Multiple tries, multiple times per year.

The 2027 Champions location has not been confirmed. Riot Games had previously indicated in 2024 that the 2027 VCT season should conclude in the Americas.

For a broader look at how Valorant’s competitive seasons have been structured, see our Valorant Season 2026 Act 2 patch breakdown on TalkEsport for context on where the game currently stands before the overhaul kicks in.

What This Means for Non-Partner Teams

This is where things get genuinely different compared to the current system.

Under the current model, non-partner teams had to grind through an entire Ascension season just to earn one promotion slot into VCT. Even then, they were only in the league for one or two years. Reaching Masters or Champions was essentially impossible unless you were already a partner team.

For the first time in VCT history, any team in the world can qualify for Masters and Champions. Under the new model, teams will have multiple shots per year at reaching the biggest stages.

Non-partner teams also get more financial support in 2027. Non-partnered teams will receive greater support under the new model, including cash incentives tied to qualification, access to regional and global prize pools, travel support, and faster payout cycles intended to support operations during the season.

Top non-partner teams can earn Championship Points and prize money throughout the year and, “in extraordinary cases, even earn more than bottom of the pack partner teams.”

What Happens to Partner Teams

VCT 2027 rewards

Partnerships are not ending. They are changing.

Starting in 2027, Riot shifts to a two-year partnership model with revised selection criteria. Partner teams remain a core part of VCT, benefiting from financial stability and long-term support.

Applications for prospective partner teams opened today. Established non-partner teams are encouraged to reach out to their respective regional Riot Esports contacts. Partnership applications will be evaluated across five criteria: commitment to growing the VALORANT community, community resonance across fandom and content, business and operational strength, infrastructure, and competitive success.

Partner teams still get direct seeding into later rounds of qualifiers. They do not have to start from the very first open qualifier stage. That safety net remains. But it no longer guarantees a path to global events without performing.

Riot Games also recalled that it distributed nearly 86 million dollars to all partner teams in 2025 through digital goods revenue.

Prize Pool and Financial Structure

VCT 2027 will feature over 20 tournaments per year across more than 16 cities worldwide, with total prize pools exceeding $6 million USD annually.

Travel to global events is fully funded by Riot. Cash incentives are attached to each stage of competition and scale with the stakes involved. The payout approximately doubles from Cups to Masters, and doubles again from Masters to Champions.

For non-partner teams specifically, funds for Cup attendance will be distributed early to help cover travel and visa logistics.

Game Changers will also receive a portion of the total annual funds, though Riot has not confirmed the exact amount yet.

What Is Still Unknown

A lot of the finer details are not confirmed yet. Riot has said the following will be announced closer to Champions 2026, which takes place in Shanghai later this year:

  • Specific regional calendars and slot allocations
  • Exact event locations for Kickoff and Cups
  • Game Changers program distribution breakdown
  • Regional qualification path details by territory

Qualification paths may vary by region and could include community tournaments, partner events, collegiate events, Valorant Premier, and other formats. None of that is locked in yet for each territory.

If you want to understand more about how the current agent meta is shaping up heading into this transitional period, the Valorant 12.06 patch notes on TalkEsport cover the latest balance changes in the live game.

Context: Why Riot Is Making This Change

This overhaul did not come out of nowhere.

Riot’s leadership had been signaling this direction throughout 2025. Leo Faria posted on Reddit in May 2025: “We’re cooking something for 2027+.” The 2026 season was already a partial step in this direction, with Path to Champions giving non-partner teams more access to international events and Stage 2 playoffs moving to destination cities.

The original VCT partnership model launched in 2023. This marks the end of the first VCT partnership cycle, which began in 2023. Riot Games had originally planned that cycle to run through 2027, but decided to end it in 2026 to prepare for the restructured system.

The four international leagues, VCT EMEA, VCT Americas, VCT Pacific, and VCT China, will remain as the regional structures. But the nature of how teams compete within them changes completely.

For the full picture of what Valorant esports looks like right now, Riot’s official Valorant esports website has the current VCT 2026 standings and schedule.

FAQ

What is the VCT 2027 format? VCT 2027 replaces league play with a tournament-driven system. Teams enter through open qualifiers, compete in regional VCT Cups, and the top performers qualify for Masters and Champions. All teams compete in a single tier.

Can any team qualify for Masters and Champions in 2027? Yes. For the first time in VCT history, any team can reach Masters and Champions through open qualifiers. Non-partner teams no longer need to go through Ascension to access Tier 1.

What are VCT Cups? VCT Cups are LAN regional tournaments that replace Stage 1 and Stage 2 league formats. Each of the four VCT regions hosts two Cups per year, for a total of eight globally. The Cup finals are held live in new cities and directly qualify teams to global events.

Are VCT partnerships ending in 2027? No. A new two-year partnership cycle runs from 2027 to 2028. Applications are now open. Partner teams still receive base payments, Team Capsule in-game revenue, and direct seeding into later qualifier stages.

How much prize money is in VCT 2027? Total prize pools across the circuit exceed $6 million USD per year. Travel to global events is fully funded. Cash payouts scale up from Cups to Masters to Champions.

When does VCT 2027 start? An exact start date has not been announced. Further details are expected before Valorant Champions 2026, which takes place in Shanghai.

Where will VCT Champions 2027 be held? The location has not been confirmed. Riot previously indicated in 2024 that the 2027 season would conclude in the Americas.

IShowSpeed Is Getting His Own Anime, Written by the One Piece Live-Action Showrunner

Satyam Kumar
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IShowSpeed Is Getting His Own Anime, Written by the One Piece Live-Action Showrunner

An animated series based on the YouTube streamer is in the works at Big Shot Pictures, with the One Piece live-action writer and a Sony distribution deal already attached

Key Facts at a Glance

  • IShowSpeed is getting an anime-style series produced by Big Shot Pictures
  • The show will be written by Matt Owens, who co-showran Netflix’s One Piece live-action for two seasons
  • Filmmaker Harmony Korine is attached as a producer
  • Big Shot Pictures was founded by former Paramount co-CEO Brian Robbins
  • The company has a first-look theatrical deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment
  • IShowSpeed has over 52 million YouTube subscribers and won Streamer of the Year in both 2024 and 2025

IShowSpeed Is Getting an Anime

YouTube creator IShowSpeed is getting his own anime-style series.

The project is in development at Big Shot Pictures, a production company founded by Brian Robbins. The show will feature an animated version of IShowSpeed as a character. It is described as one of his first narrative-driven projects. Plot details are not being disclosed at this stage, and Big Shot is preparing to take the package out to buyers soon.

IShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Jason Watkins Jr., is 21 years old and has more than 52 million subscribers on YouTube. His content spans gaming, sports, music videos, travel, and viral IRL streams. He won Streamer of the Year at both the 2024 and 2025 Streamer Awards. For those who want a full picture of his journey on the platform, the IShowSpeed unbanned from Twitch story on TalkEsport covers an earlier chapter of his career.

In a statement, IShowSpeed said: “I’ve always loved anime, so being able to create something like this is a dream come true for me. The team behind this project is incredibly talented, and I can’t wait for my fans around the world to see what we’re building together.” Variety

Who Is Writing It

The series will be written by Matt Owens, who served as co-showrunner on the first two seasons of Netflix’s One Piece live-action series before announcing last year that he would be stepping away from that show to focus on his mental health. Variety

Owens co-developed the live-action One Piece adaptation from the start. He was executive producer and co-showrunner across both seasons and helped shape the show’s creative direction. After leaving One Piece in March 2025, Joe Tracz took over as showrunner for the series.

Owens is also set to produce on the IShowSpeed project alongside Brian Robbins for Big Shot. Variety Filmmaker and actor Harmony Korine is also attached as a producer.

Who Is Behind Big Shot Pictures

Brian Robbins is the founder of Big Shot Pictures. He is the former co-CEO of Paramount Global, who exited the company in August 2025 when the merger forming Paramount Skydance was completed. As head of Paramount Pictures, he oversaw major family franchises including Sonic the Hedgehog, SpongeBob, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and Paw Patrol. He launched Big Shot Pictures earlier this year. Variety

The company has a first-look theatrical distribution deal with Sony Pictures Entertainment, covering both animated and hybrid live-action films. Variety

Big Shot has also acquired the rights to the children’s book series “Eloise at the Plaza,” created by Kay Thompson and illustrated by Hilary Knight, for adaptation across film, TV, and consumer products. Variety

In a statement about the IShowSpeed project, Robbins said Speed is “a one-of-a-kind creative force whose ability to connect with audiences transcends borders and platforms.” Variety

Matt Owens After One Piece

Owens stepped down from Netflix’s One Piece in March 2025 after working on the show for six years. In an Instagram post, he wrote that he was leaving to “focus on myself and my mental health,” adding that “the last six years of working on the live action One Piece have been a life changing journey. A dream come true.” IMDb

Netflix’s live-action One Piece Season 2 released on March 10, 2026. The series is now being led by Joe Tracz as sole showrunner, with filming for Season 3 beginning in November 2025.

The IShowSpeed anime marks Owens’ first announced project since leaving One Piece.

What This Means for IShowSpeed

The anime series is a shift for IShowSpeed as a creator. His content has been primarily live and unscripted. A scripted animated show built around a version of himself is a different format entirely.

He is represented by CAA. Matt Owens is repped by CAA, Circle Management + Production, and Johnson Shapiro Slewett & Kole. Big Shot is preparing to take the full package to potential buyers shortly, according to Variety’s report on the project.

IShowSpeed’s global reach has grown steadily over the past two years. In January 2025, he received a symbolic Ambassador of Peru award in front of 20,000 fans during his South American tour. His fanbase spans multiple continents, which makes the international appeal of an anime format a logical fit for this kind of project. You can follow more of his recent activity and major moments in the IShowSpeed news coverage on TalkEsport.

FAQ

What is IShowSpeed’s anime about? Plot details have not been revealed. The show will feature an animated character based on IShowSpeed. It is in development at Big Shot Pictures and is described as one of his first narrative-driven projects.

Who is writing IShowSpeed’s anime? Matt Owens is the writer. He previously served as co-showrunner and executive producer on Netflix’s live-action One Piece for its first two seasons.

Who is producing IShowSpeed’s anime? Brian Robbins and Matt Owens are producing through Big Shot Pictures. Filmmaker Harmony Korine is also attached as a producer.

Is IShowSpeed’s anime confirmed for release? Not yet. Big Shot Pictures is preparing to take the project to buyers. No release date, platform, or episode count has been announced.

How many subscribers does IShowSpeed have? As of this report, IShowSpeed has over 52 million subscribers on YouTube.

Someone Built a Dating Website for Valorant Players, and It’s Crazy

Yash More
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Someone Built a Dating Website for Valorant Players, and It’s Crazy

A fan-made community e-dating site lets Valorant players find an “edate” or duo partner. It is live, real, and adults-only.

What Is RRedating?

A fan has built a dating website just for Valorant players, and it is not a concept or a meme page. It is a working platform.

The site is called RRedating. Its homepage describes it as a “totally not serious” community e-dating site where players can find an edate or a duo partner. Users filter by role, rank, and region. Once matched, they can message each other in real time.

It leans into Valorant culture. References to throwing games in Swiftplay, lurking at 3 a.m., and watching your Elo disappear are sprinkled across the homepage. The tone is self-aware, but the functionality underneath is real.

Not an Official Riot Product

RRedating is not affiliated with Riot Games in any way. The site states this clearly on both its homepage and its disclaimer page.

The disclaimer describes RRedating as an independent, fan-made community project created by Valorant players for Valorant players. It does not use the Riot Games API. All player information, including rank, Riot ID, and gameplay details, is self-reported. There is no verification system. If a user claims they are Radiant with perfect vibes, the platform takes their word for it.

This is worth keeping in mind if you plan to use the site. There is no way to confirm whether someone’s claimed rank or identity is accurate.

Adults Only

One of the biggest details about RRedating is its age restriction.

The site is strictly for users who are 18 or older. That restriction appears on the homepage, disclaimer page, terms of service, and privacy policy. Users must confirm they are at least 18 years old to register. The site says it reserves the right to terminate accounts that misrepresent age.

The creators added this restriction deliberately, since Valorant has a large younger player base, and the site is clearly trying to draw a line around who it is meant for.

What Data It Collects

RRedating’s privacy policy says it collects email addresses through Clerk authentication, along with self-reported Riot IDs, rank, gameplay info, uploaded profile pictures, messages sent on the platform, and region and role preferences.

That data is used for three purposes: displaying profiles, matching compatible players, and enabling messaging.

On the infrastructure side, user data is stored through Supabase, hosting is handled by Vercel, and authentication is handled by Clerk.

Regarding visibility, profiles are accessible to logged-in users on the browse page. Messages stay private between the two matched users. Email addresses are not shown publicly. Users can delete their accounts through settings, but the site notes that messages in existing conversations may still be visible to the other person after deletion.

How Matching Works

The matching system is based on Valorant-specific filters. Users select their role, rank, and region. The platform then surfaces profiles that fit those parameters. When two users match, they can exchange messages within the platform.

There is no external ranking data pulling from Riot’s servers. Everything is filled in manually by the user at the time of registration. This keeps the site independent from Riot’s systems, but it also means the filters rely entirely on honest self-reporting.

This is something to be aware of if you are looking for a ranked duo partner specifically. The listed rank is not verified. For actual in-game rank tracking, tools like Valorant’s official tracker or third-party stat sites are more reliable. Players interested in the current competitive meta can also check the latest Valorant 12.06 patch notes on TalkEsport to see what has changed in the ranked environment.

Valorant’s Community and the Edating Trend

Valorant has always had a very online kind of community. The game sits in that overlap between hardcore ranked shooter, social hangout space, meme machine, and matchmaking lobby. The edating culture is not new to the game. It has existed in lobbies, Discord servers, and Reddit threads for years.

RRedating is simply the first platform to formalize it into a dedicated website. It is not the only attempt to connect Valorant players outside the game. An iOS app called ValMatcher uses a swipe-based system similar to dating apps, allowing players to share gameplay clips, photos, and location details. Discord servers tagged with Valorant edating have thousands of members as well. RRedating, though, is the first standalone browser-based site built entirely around this concept.

New agent releases like Miks in Valorant Season 2026 Act 2 tend to bring in fresh players and reignite interest in the game’s community spaces, including platforms like this one.

FAQ

What is RRedating? RRedating is a fan-made dating website for Valorant players. It lets users create profiles and find an edate or duo partner based on role, rank, and region. The site is not affiliated with Riot Games.

Is RRedating free to use? The site does not publicly list any paid tiers. It is presented as a community project. Registration requires email authentication through Clerk.

Is RRedating safe? The site collects email addresses, profile data, and messages. All player information is self-reported and not verified. Users should treat it with the same caution they would apply to any third-party community platform.

Does RRedating use Riot’s API? No. RRedating explicitly states it does not use the Riot Games API. It is an independent, fan-built site.

What age do you need to be to use RRedating? Users must be 18 or older. The age requirement appears across the homepage, disclaimer, terms, and privacy policy.

PARIVISION Qualifies for PGL Bucharest 2026 Playoffs

Sarjyo Mukherjee
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PARIVISION Qualifies for PGL Bucharest 2026 Playoffs

PARIVISION is qualified for the playoffs of PGL Bucharest after winning back-to-back maps, where one of them was arguably the longest played this year in professional CS2. A close 2-0 that pushed PARIVISION to the next round of play, saw Wildcards head home having put up a valiant effort.

VETO

  • Wildcard removed Ancient
  • PARIVISION removed Nuke
  • Wildcard picked Mirage
  • PARIVISION picked Dust2
  • PARIVISION removed Overpass
  • Wildcard removed Anubis
  • Inferno was left over

Map 1: Mirage; Pick: Wildcard; Winner: PARIVISION

While on defence of Mirage, PARIVISION remained undefeated for the first 5 rounds before Wildcard managed its first. Following a dominant start to the map, Wildcard slowly built into the game as they traded rounds by the end of the first half with an 8-4 scoreline. As PARIVISION got going in the second half, Wildcards managed to edge out and secure a levelled scoreline to take the game to OT. Over time, we saw both games push arguably the longest overtimes in the history of professional Counter Strike 2, where it took 5 OTs for PARIVISION to edge out Wildcard with a 28-26 scoreline. A 50 kills masterclass from Reck got washed against a stunning display of resilience and grit from the PARIVISION side.

Map 2: Dust2; Pick: PARIVISION; Winner: PARIVISION

7-0 start from Wildcard saw PARIVISION get on the back foot right from the get-go, which almost threatened to take the series to the final map. As PARIVISION secured some rounds by the end of the first half, the game became competitive before switching sides. PARIVISION managed to recover the scoreline with a string of rounds on their defence in the second half as Wildcards gave away their massive lead. After breaking the Wildcard economy, a successful retake in the A site put them on a series point, and a stark close in the following map closed the doors that booked their spot in the playoffs of the PGL Bucharest.

PARIVISION’s form has dropped significantly coming into the game, and now that teams have got their number, they must improve and come up with better strategies, unless they want to have their success early this year get labelled as a fluke.

VCT 2027: Riot Games Replaces Leagues With Open Tournaments, Adds $6M Prize Pool

Satyam Kumar
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VCT 2027: Riot Games Replaces Leagues With Open Tournaments, Adds $6M Prize Pool

Riot Games has officially revealed the structure of the Valorant Champions Tour for 2027. The VCT is moving away from its current league-based format and shifting to a tournament-driven model. Starting in 2027, any team can qualify for the Masters and Champions through open qualifiers. The announcement was made on April 8, 2026.

The overhaul eliminates the tiered barrier between partnered and non-partnered teams. All teams will compete in a single tier of competition. VCT 2027 will feature over 20 tournaments per year across more than 16 cities worldwide, with total prize pools exceeding $6 million USD annually.

This marks the end of the first VCT partnership cycle, which began in 2023. Riot Games had originally planned that cycle to run through 2027, but decided to end it in 2026 to prepare for the restructured system.

How Does the VCT 2027 Format Work?

VCT 2027 Format

The new VCT runs on a straightforward path: open qualifiers feed into regional tournaments, which then qualify teams for Masters and Champions.

Open qualifiers are the entry point. Every team starts here, regardless of partnership status. Multiple qualification windows run throughout the year, giving teams several chances to advance.

From open qualifiers, teams progress into regional events. These include Kickoff and the newly introduced VCT Cups. Cups are LAN tournaments that replace the traditional round-robin league play seen in the current system. Each Cup concludes with a live final in a new city and directly qualifies top teams for the Masters and Champions.

The season structure follows a familiar flow: Kickoff leads into Masters 1, then VCT Cups feed into Masters 2, and finally Champions closes the year. Open qualifiers for each stage run concurrently with Cups and Masters, creating overlapping opportunities for teams that miss one window to try again in the next.

What Are VCT Cups?

VCT Cups are the biggest structural change in the 2027 format. They replace the regional league stages that have been a core part of VCT since the partnership model launched.

Cups are bracket-style LAN events, not round-robin leagues. They feature open qualification pathways, meaning non-partnered teams can enter. Each Cup determines the top teams in its region and feeds directly into global events.

The finals of each VCT Cup will be held live in different cities. Riot Games has stated that this is part of a broader plan to bring live Valorant esports to more locations.

For fans who followed the VCT EMEA Stage 2 finals moving to Barcelona this year, the 2027 model expands on that idea significantly.

Open Qualification to Masters and Champions

Open Qualification to Masters and Champions

For the first time in VCT history, any aspiring team can qualify for Masters and Champions through open qualifiers. This was not possible under the current system, where only partnered teams and a limited number of Challengers teams could reach global events.

In the new model, winning teams from open qualifiers can advance through regional tournaments and earn a direct path to the biggest stages. This applies to both partnered and non-partnered teams competing in the same brackets.

Non-partnered teams will also receive expanded financial support. This includes cash incentives tied to qualification at each stage, access to the $6M+ annual prize pool, fully funded travel for global events, and faster payout cycles throughout the season.

According to Riot, top-performing non-partner teams can outperform lower-ranked partner teams in earnings under this system.

What Happens to Partner Teams in VCT 2027?

Partnerships are not going away. Riot Games is introducing a new two-year partnership cycle starting in 2027. This replaces the current longer-term model.

Partner teams receive several benefits: a guaranteed base payment each year, performance bonuses, in-game Team Capsule revenue, and direct seeding into later rounds of qualifiers. The direct seeding gives partner teams a built-in advantage by skipping early qualification stages.

Applications for the new partnership cycle will be evaluated on five criteria: commitment to growing the Valorant community, community resonance across fandom and content, business sustainability, operational excellence, and competitive success.

The VCT 2026 Team Capsules already demonstrated the financial value of in-game items for teams. In 2025, Riot Games shared over $86 million from digital goods with VCT teams.

VCT 2027 Expands to 20+ Tournaments Across 16+ Cities

VCT 2027

Riot Games is planning a significant geographic expansion. VCT 2027 will host more than 20 tournaments each year and visit over 16 different cities around the world.

These events include regional Cups, international competitions, and global events. Each territory will host multiple LAN events throughout the season. The format includes international league hubs and roadshow finals across different regions.

Specific locations and dates have not been announced yet. Riot said more details on regional formats, qualification paths, and event locations will come before Champions 2026.

This expansion builds on what VCT 2026 already started. The current season brought global events to Santiago, London, and Shanghai, while VCT China adopted a roadshow format spanning five cities.

What Leo Faria Said About VCT 2027

Leo Faria, the Global Head of Valorant Esports at Riot Games, framed the changes as a complete reimagining of how teams compete.

He stated that VCT 2027 shifts to a tournament-driven system with open access to the biggest events. The goal is to create a system where every match carries meaningful stakes, and every team has a shot at the global stage.

Faria had been signaling these changes throughout 2025 and into 2026. He previously indicated that Riot wanted to reduce the gap between Tier 1 and Tier 2 and reignite the competitive dream for aspiring teams.

VCT 2027 Timeline: What Comes Next

The full VCT 2027 details are expected before Champions 2026, which takes place in Shanghai later this year. Riot will share specifics on regional formats, qualification brackets, event locations, and the new partnership application process.

The 2026 season is already serving as a transition year. Changes like the Path to Champions system, which allows Challengers teams to qualify for Champions 2026, were introduced as a bridge toward the open format coming in 2027.

Frequently Asked Questions

When does VCT 2027 start? Riot Games has not announced an exact start date. The new format begins in early 2027, with full details expected before Champions 2026.

Can any team qualify for Valorant Champions in 2027? Yes. For the first time, any team can reach Masters and Champions through open qualifiers under the new VCT 2027 system.

What are VCT Cups? VCT Cups are LAN-based regional tournaments that replace traditional league play. They feature open qualification and conclude with live finals in new cities.

How much prize money is in VCT 2027? Riot Games confirmed total prize pools exceeding $6 million USD per year, plus fully funded travel for global events.

Are VCT partnerships ending? No. Riot is introducing a new two-year partnership cycle in 2027 with updated selection criteria. Partner teams retain benefits like base payments, Team Capsule revenue, and direct seeding.

Valve Might Be Working on a “SteamGPT” AI Support System With Possible CS2 Anti-Cheat Links

Sonu Banerjee
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Valve Might Be Working on a “SteamGPT” AI Support System With Possible CS2 Anti-Cheat Links

Valve might be working on a new “SteamGPT” AI feature to deal with certain issues involving Steam Support, as per a recent leak from prominent dataminer Gabe Follower.

According to an X post made by the leaker, this new feature might also be connected to Trust Scores (a system used in CS2 matchmaking), and potentially even CS2’s anti-cheat systems.

If the leaks are accurate, Valve may be experimenting with an AI assistant that is capable of handling common support queries before escalating more complex cases to human staff. Given Steam’s relatively small team, this kind of AI-powered support system could significantly speed up how quickly most players get their issues resolved.

The leak also hints at potential AI integration in the Counter-Strike 2 anti-cheat system. For the longest time, cheating has remained one of the biggest concerns in the CS2 community. An AI-driven system that identifies suspicious behavior patterns in real time might just be what the game needs to give Valve the upper hand against cheat devs. At the same time, this could lead to a surge in false positives, with the AI possibly banning players who are genuinely highly skilled or play unconventionally.

While not much is known about this “SteamGPT” feature as of yet, and its very existence still remains unconfirmed, community reactions to this leak have been rather mixed.

Gamers have raised concerns about users potentially tricking the AI support system into granting refunds or reversing moderation actions by exploiting loopholes in automated responses. Others worry that relying on AI support could easily result in incorrect decisions, especially in more complex cases involving bans, marketplace transactions, or account security.

Note that Valve hasn’t made any official statement on the “SteamGPT” leaks at the time of writing.

Pokemon Champions Mystery Gift Codes April 2026

Aritra Patra
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Pokemon Champions Mystery Gift Codes April 2026

Pokemon Champions launched on Nintendo Switch on April 8, 2026, and the developers have already released the first Mystery Gift code. If you want a free Machamp without grinding for it, here is everything you need.

Active Pokemon Champions Mystery Gift Codes (April 2026)

Only one code is currently active, which gives you a free Machamp. There are no expired codes yet, since the game just launched. Redeem this one before it disappears.

CodeRewardStatus
CHAMP10NFree MachampActive

What are Pokémon Champions Mystery Gift Codes?

Mystery Gift codes are special codes released by the game’s developers. They give players in-game resources such as free Pokemon, items, and accessories. Each code can only be used once per Nintendo account.

The game has a box limit of 30 Pokemon in Champions, so the developers have been deliberate about which Pokemon they give away through these codes.

How to Redeem Pokemon Champions Mystery Gift Codes

You need to complete the game’s tutorial first to unlock the Mystery Gift menu. After that, follow these steps:

  • Launch Pokemon Champions on Nintendo Switch.
  • Open the SubMenu option.
  • Select Mystery Gifts.
  • Type or paste the code into the text box.
  • Hit Confirm to claim your reward.
  • Go to your Mailbox from the main menu and open the Special Gift mail. Select Claim to receive the item.

Mystery Gift codes are not the only way to get free stuff. Between April 8 and August 31, 2026, players who download and play the game will receive a free Dragonite and 100 Quick Coupons through the in-game mailbox.

Quick Coupons speed up Pokemon recruitment. Players recruit creatures from a rotating pool at Roster Ranch rather than catching them in the wild, and Quick Coupons let you do that faster. They can also be earned by completing in-game missions.

Players who keep playing through the first season’s Battle Pass can obtain a Dragonite Stone, which lets Dragonite Mega Evolve into Mega Dragonite.

Arc Raiders Update 1.23.0 Patch Notes Released

Aritra Patra
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Arc Raiders Update 1.23.0 Patch Notes Released

Arc Raiders update 1.23.0 is now live on PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S. The patch was originally scheduled for Tuesday, but Embark Studios pushed it back 24 hours, with a community manager announcing the delay on the game’s official Discord. It rolled out on Wednesday, April 8, at the usual patch time.

The update focused on fixing exploits and bugs, including a combat issue that was causing guns to fire by accident. The Vanguard cosmetic set also became available in the shop alongside the fixes.

Gameplay Fixes

The bulk of 1.23.0 covers combat and item use issues. Embark fixed a bug where two Trigger ‘Nades would deal triple damage when detonated close together. A separate fix addressed items not being used immediately when holding fire and swapping to them.

The update also resolved a shoulder swap issue where the camera would stay locked to one side, and closed an exploit that let players use the Anvil Splitter without the dispersion penalty. Barricades can no longer be placed on Ziplines.

The Close Scrutiny mode, introduced with the Flashpoint update, got several corrections. Let’s take a look at the full patch notes.

Arc Raiders 1.23.0 Patch Notes

ARC:

  • Fixed an issue that caused Rocketeers to use an incorrect combat alert sound.

Gameplay:

  • Fixed an issue where two Trigger ’Nades would sometimes deal three times the damage when detonated next to each other.
  • Fixed an issue that would cause items to not be used as soon as possible when holding fire and swapping to them.
  • Fixed an issue where weapons and items would fire automatically.
  • Fixed a shoulder swap issue where the camera would stay only on one side.
  • Fixed an exploit where an anvil splitter could be used without the penalty for dispersion.
  • Barricades can no longer be placed on Ziplines.

Maps:

  • Fixed an issue where players could get set on fire outside of the locked room in Medical Research on Stella Montis.
  • Fixed a spot on Stella Montis where players could be shot through the floor.
  • Fixed an issue where some staircases were missing in Buried City.
  • Fixed some instances where the code printer could not be interacted with during Locked Gate.

Close Scrutiny:

  • Changed the movement speed for Rocketeers and Vaporizers so they don’t behave strangely while idling.
  • Fixed an issue where reconnected players would not see Assessor platforms correctly.
  • Fixed an issue where Vaporizers would get stuck when getting close to an Assessor.
  • Fixed an issue that would prevent an Assessor from flying back into orbit. Fixed an issue where breach platforms could break on an Assessor when spamming the Breach & Search prompts preventing it from returning to orbit.
  • All ARC summoned by the Assessor will now correctly leave the area and despawn if they remain idle for a long time.
  • Pinging an Assessor in the map screen now correctly reflects the actual location.
  • Fixed an issue where players could get stuck when jumping from one platform to another on an Assessor.
  • Fixed a spot in Buried city where an Assessor and a Probe could land in the same spot.

Other:

  • Fixed an issue where the weapon upgrade UI would show incorrect upgrade tiers.
  • Fixed an issue that caused fully transparent helmet visors.
  • Fixed some instances where certain visual effects could cause crashes. We are continuing to investigate all cases that cause crashes.

Sentinels of Light 2.0 Bundle Coming to Valorant Mobile Soon, Leaks Suggest

Sonu Banerjee
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0
Sentinels of Light 2.0 Bundle Coming to Valorant Mobile Soon, Leaks Suggest

The fan-favorite Sentinels of Light 2.0 skin bundle might be coming to Valorant Mobile in the near future, as per the latest leaks on social media forums.

According to prominent dataminer “VALMobileLeaks” on X, the mobile version of Valorant could soon welcome the Sentinels of Light 2.0 bundle to its in-game store.

While Riot Games has yet to officially announce this upcoming bundle, the leak suggests that the bundle may already have appeared in the game’s internal files, hinting that its release on Valorant Mobile might just be on the horizon.

If you’re eager to know more about the Valorant Mobile Sentinels of Light 2.0 bundle ahead of its official reveal, we’ve got you covered.

Valorant Mobile Sentinels of Light 2.0 Bundle Skins

The Valorant Mobile Sentinels of Light 2.0 bundle is set to include the same skins as the PC version.

Fans can expect to see the following weapon skins in the SoL 2.0 skin bundle in Valorant Mobile:

  • Sentinels of Light Odin
  • Sentinels of Light Phantom
  • Sentinels of Light Spectre
  • Sentinels of Light Shorty
  • Melee (Relic Stone Daggers)

Valorant Mobile Sentinels of Light 2.0 Release Date

The release date of the Sentinels of Light 2.0 bundle in Valorant Mobile has not been revealed at the time of writing. However, fans will likely be able to see this new collection in the game store within the next few weeks.

Valorant Mobile India: Release Date, Ban Concerns & What to Expect in 2026

Hoax
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Valorant Mobile India: Release Date, Ban Concerns & What to Expect in 2026

Valorant Mobile is one of the most anticipated mobile games in India right now. Its road to an Indian launch is anything but straightforward. The game already launched in China on August 19, 2025. A global rollout is expected sometime in 2026. But for Indian players, a critical question looms: will the game actually make it to India, or will history repeat itself?

What Is Valorant Mobile?

Valorant Mobile is the mobile adaptation of Riot Games’ hit 5v5 tactical FPS, Valorant, which launched on PC back in 2020. Riot officially announced the mobile version in June 2021. However, the project went through years of development, testing phases, and a controversial partnership before the China launch. The mobile version is known as “Fearless Covenant” in China. It is co-developed by LightSpeed Studios, a Tencent-owned game developer best known for building PUBG Mobile.

China Launch and Global Hype

Valorant Mobile made its debut in China on August 19, 2025, after years of closed beta tests. The reception was massive. The game surpassed 50 million monthly active users in China. This made it the country’s biggest mobile game launch of 2025. The first official tournament took place in Shanghai in July 2025. This further cemented the game’s foothold in the competitive mobile esports scene.

Despite this success, the global version is facing delays. A late 2025 global beta was widely expected but never materialized. As of early 2026, community leakers and industry insiders point to a mid-2026 global release window. However, Riot has yet to confirm an official worldwide launch date.

The Tencent Problem for India

India’s complex regulatory history with Chinese-linked apps is the single biggest obstacle for Valorant Mobile’s launch in the country. In 2020, the Indian government banned PUBG Mobile, along with over 100 other apps. They cited data privacy and national security concerns over Chinese data practices. LightSpeed Studios, the co-developer of Valorant Mobile, is the same studio that built PUBG Mobile. It is a direct subsidiary of Tencent Games.

This connection raises serious red flags for Indian regulators. Riot Games itself is majority-owned by Tencent, which only adds to the concern. League of Legends: Wild Rift, another Riot title, was never officially release in India. Many analysts point to the same Tencent link as the reason. Reports from late 2025 even suggested that Riot had halted the Valorant Mobile India launch. Furthermore, Riot was actively looking for a new global publishing partner to sidestep regulatory issues.

You can read more about Valorant’s PC presence in India and its growing esports scene on TalkEsport.

The BGMI Model: India’s Best Hope

The most realistic path for Valorant Mobile in India follows the BGMI (Battlegrounds Mobile India) playbook. Krafton, the Korean developer of PUBG, launched a separate India-exclusive version of the game with localized servers and strict data localization policies. They also created a new publishing structure that bypassed Tencent entirely. This allowed it to pass Indian government scrutiny. As a result, the game returned to the country’s massive mobile gaming market.

If Riot Games follows the same approach by launching a separate “Valorant Mobile India” version with an Indian or non-Chinese publishing partner, local servers, and full compliance with Indian data privacy laws, the launch becomes very plausible. Given India’s rapidly growing mobile gaming audience and its established Valorant PC playerbase, India is too large a market for Riot to ignore.

Check out TalkEsport’s coverage on the Indian mobile gaming ecosystem for deeper context on how the BGMI model worked.

Will Valorant Mobile Be Banned in India?

There are three realistic scenarios for the Indian market. The first is a preemptive government ban, similar to what happened with PUBG Mobile and Wild Rift. It would be driven purely by Tencent’s involvement. The second is a conditional approval where Riot meets strict data handling and server localization requirements set by Indian authorities. The third, and currently most discussed, is a delayed India-specific launch. In this case, Riot restructures the publishing model before releasing the game.

Given that Riot has reportedly acknowledged these concerns and is exploring alternative publishing arrangements, a complete ban seems less likely than a delayed or restructured launch. India’s Online Gaming Bill 2025, which focuses primarily on gambling-related games, does not directly restrict skill-based FPS games like Valorant Mobile. So the regulatory landscape, while tricky, is not an absolute dead end.

Expected India Release: When to Actually Expect It

Valorant Mobile India does not have an official release date as of April 2026. If Riot follows the BGMI model, the process of setting up Indian servers, finding a local publishing partner, and getting regulatory clearance could push the India launch several months behind the global release. A realistic estimate, based on current momentum and development timelines, would place a potential Valorant Mobile India launch somewhere in late 2026 or early 2027. This assumes the global version rolls out by mid-2026.

Indian players interested in staying updated on the game’s progress can keep track of coverage on TalkEsport’s gaming news section for the latest developments.

How to Play Valorant Mobile Right Now in India

While you wait for the official launch, it is technically possible to access the Chinese version of the game using third-party tools. Players have been using VPN-based services and apps like LagoFast to download and run the China-exclusive Valorant Mobile beta. You need a WeChat or QQ account for registration, and the game’s interface is in Chinese. Though some tools offer auto-translation features, be aware that this method comes with latency issues. Therefore, proceed at your own risk.

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