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ESL Unveils Full Lineup of Teams for IEM Katowice 2024

Sonu Banerjee
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ESL Unveils Full Lineup of Teams for IEM Katowice 2024

The BLAST Premier World Final 2023 Counter-Strike 2 tournament has just concluded, and fans of the competitive shooter are already looking forward to the next big CS2 event. Luckily, CS2 enthusiasts won’t have to wait long, as the highly anticipated IEM Katowice 2024 is just around the corner.

ESL has recently revealed the complete list of teams invited to IEM Katowice 2024 via an X thread, and the hype surrounding the event is stronger than ever.

Eight of the finest CS2 teams from throughout the globe have received direct invites to the group stage, while an additional sixteen teams are set to engage in the intense play-in stage, battling for the chance to advance to the prestigious group stage of IEM Katowice 2024. The invites are sent based on the teams’ ESL rankings and recent performance.

IEM Katowice 2024: All Participating Teams

Here’s a list of teams invited to IEM Katowice 2024:

Group Stage Direct Invites

  • G2
  • MOUZ
  • FaZe
  • Vitality
  • Complexity
  • NAVI
  • Monte
  • Team Falcons

Play-In Stage Invites

  • Paloma
  • Cloud9
  • Virtus.Pro
  • Heroic
  • FURIA
  • M80
  • Rooster
  • The Mongolz
  • BIG
  • Gamer Legion
  • APEKS
  • Astralis
  • Eternal Fire
  • BetBoom Team
  • ENCE
  • Team Spirit

The play-in stage is set to unfold a couple of days before the main event, featuring a dynamic double-elimination bracket. From this stage, the top eight teams will find themselves in the group stage of IEM Katowice 2024.

Commencing on February 3, 2024, the main event promises to be a nine-day spectacle, boasting a substantial prize pool of USD 1,000,000. A double-elimination group stage will lay the foundation for the ensuing single-elimination playoffs, culminating in a thrilling best-of-5 Grand Finals that will determine the ultimate victor.

Heroic Signs Nicoodoz

Aritra Patra
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Heroic Signs Nicoodoz

Heroic has bolstered its CS2 team by signing Nico “nicoodoz” Tamjidi, previously with Preasy. Nicoodoz, known for his impressive AWPing skills, steps in to fill the void left by Casper “cadiaN” Møller’s departure. This strategic move comes as Heroic aims to rebuild and strengthen its squad.

The addition of nicoodoz is part of Heroic’s broader strategy to revitalize its CS2 lineup. Before his arrival, Heroic had engaged a temporary lineup featuring Peter “dupreeh” Rasmussen, Jason “salazar” Salazar, and Rasmus “Zyphon” Nordfoss. The team also recently welcomed Guy “NertZ” Iluz and coach Eetu “sAw” Saha from ENCE, marking a significant reconfiguration of their team dynamics.

With the potential retention of Rasmus “sjuush” Beck and René “TeSeS” Madsen, Heroic is only a step away from finalizing its roster, notably seeking a new In-Game Leader (IGL).

Nicoodoz’s career has been a blend of highs and lows even before joining Heroic. He spent over a year with fnatic, where he delivered a commendable performance with an average 1.08 rating. However, team success was elusive, with their most notable achievement being a quarter-final appearance at the IEM Rio Major 2022.

Following his stint with fnatic, nicoodoz returned to the Danish esports scene, joining Preasy. Here, he regained his form, achieving an impressive 1.24 rating against lower-ranked opposition.

The Heroic CS2 team now looks like:

  • Denmark Nico “⁠nicoodoz⁠” Tamjidi
  • Denmark Rasmus “⁠sjuush⁠” Beck
  • René “⁠TeSeS⁠” Madsen
  • Israel Guy “⁠NertZ⁠” Iluz
  • Finland Eetu “⁠sAw⁠” Saha (coach)

Genshin Impact Releases New Characters Named “Xianyun” and “Gaming”

Aritra Patra
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Genshin Impact Releases New Characters Named “Xianyun” and “Gaming”

The world of Genshin Impact is set to expand once again with the introduction of two new characters in its upcoming version 4.4 update. Fans have been eagerly anticipating details about these new additions, and now, HoYoverse has finally lifted the veil, revealing Xianyun and Gaming as the latest characters to join the game’s ever-growing roster.

Xianyun: From Cloud Retainer to Playable Character

Xianyun, previously known in the game as Cloud Retainer, is stepping into the limelight as a new 5-star character. This transition from a supporting role in Liyue-based story quests to a fully playable character has created a buzz among the Genshin Impact community. Xianyun, with her Anemo vision, will be featured alongside the Lantern Rite patch and Chenyu Vale in version 4.4.

The official reveal describes Xianyun as a reliable and formidable ally, with Madame Ping stating, “Don’t be fooled by her usual manner. She’s someone you can truly rely on when the going gets tough.” This hint at her character and abilities has piqued the interest of players, who are eagerly awaiting more details about her skill animations and in-game roles.

Gaming: The New Addition in Genshin Impact

Gaming, a surprise announcement from HoYoverse, will join Xianyun in the version 4.4 update. As a 4-star character wielding the Pyro element, Gaming brings a fresh dynamic to the game. With little prior mention in the game’s storyline, Gaming remains an enigma, adding an element of mystery and excitement to the update.

HoYoverse’s official description of Gaming paints him as a vigilant and powerful character, capable of driving away adversaries with ease. This brief glimpse into his character suggests that players can expect a unique and intriguing addition to the Genshin Impact universe.

As the release of version 4.4 is still a little way off, players have ample time to prepare their Primogems and Ascension materials. The anticipation for the official release and more detailed information about Xianyun and Gaming continues to build, with the community eagerly waiting for next month’s livestream tied to the update.

How to Get Mix up Monday Fortnite Rewards?

Aritra Patra
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How to Get Mix up Monday Fortnite Rewards?

Every Monday, Fortnite Battle Royale players are treated to a unique challenge: the Mix Up Monday tournament. This casual event partners players randomly, tasking them with amassing points over two hours. It’s a perfect blend of skill and unpredictability, as you’re never quite sure what the game will throw your way next.

Each week, Mix Up Monday offers a fresh experience with different item availability and scoring rules in Fortnite. To participate in the tournament, players must have Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) enabled and an account level of 15 or higher. Age is also a factor, with a minimum requirement of 13 years.

How to Get Mix up Monday Fortnite Rewards?

While there’s no traditional prize pool, Fortnite Mix Up Monday doesn’t skimp on rewards. Players can earn in-game rewards which vary weekly, reflecting the changing format of the event.

These rewards include points for wins, pickaxe kills, placements, and eliminations. Additionally, players can gather Arcane Dust, a special currency used to purchase various in-game cosmetics.

Dive into the action with up to seven matches in each two-hour session. You can team up with a friend or let fate decide your duo partner. As with any Fortnite battle, collecting chests and wielding weapons to defeat enemies is part of the thrill. Your performance across these matches determines your ranking, which you can check on Fortnite Tracker.

Skyesports Announces 2024 Counter-Strike 2 Global Tournament Series with a $1 Million Cumulative Prize Pool

Pranav Nalawade
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Skyesports Announces 2024 Counter-Strike 2 Global Tournament Series with a $1 Million Cumulative Prize Pool

Skyesports, South Asia’s leading esports tournament organizer, has unveiled its highly anticipated 2024 roadmap for Counter-Strike 2, one of the most competitive games worldwide. Next year, the company has revealed six global IPs for the game with a cumulative prize pool of $1 million. These events will feature a mix of international and Indian teams, and will happen as LAN events in the country and internationally. 

Skyesports’ commitment to Counter-Strike 2 comes after it hosted India’s first-ever franchised esports league with a prize pool of more than $240,000, the Skyesports Masters, earlier this year with an on-ground final in Bangalore, India. After the positive reception and success of the league, Skyesports has announced a deeper roadmap for the year. 

Commenting on the newly-unveiled roadmap, Shiva Nandy, Founder and CEO, Skyesports, said, “Since the release of Counter-Strike 2 earlier this year, the game is getting more popular than ever, presenting us with exciting opportunities to invest in the space. Our 2024 roadmap has been planned with a focus on fostering talent, global expansion, and ensuring sustainability for participating teams. We have five global IPs planned, offering a total prize pool of $1 million, all happening in person. Notably, three of these tournaments will take place in India, showcasing global esports talent and introducing the electrifying world of Counter-Strike esports to a broader audience.”

To kick off the roadmap, the Skyesports Grand Slam will happen from March 14 to 18 with a $50,000 prize pool.  Next up, the franchised esports league, the Skyesports Masters is set to make a return with a huge $350,000 prize pool in May 2024. Following the high-stakes action in the franchised league, Skyesports will bring back the longest-running homegrown esports IP in India, the Skyesports Championship, for an electrifying sixth edition in July 2024 with $150,000 on the line. 

Besides Indian teams, these tournaments will feature international organizations as well and will happen as on-ground live event in India, bringing global talent to the country. Skyesports will be unveiling the exact venues at a later date. 

Following these tournaments, Skyesports will host the $150,000 Skyesports Souvenir in Colombo, Sri Lanka with teams from India, Europe, and North America. 

In October 2024, Skyesports is set to introduce a new and ambitious global esports IP, the Skyesports Global Tour. For its inaugural edition, the tournament will take place in Bangkok, Thailand with a $250,000 prize pool. Embodying a truly global esports IP, the tournament will feature qualifiers taking place in India, Europe, North America, and Southeast Asia.

To close off the year, the Skyesports India vs Pakistan Series is set to take place in December 2024 in Abu Dhabi, UAE. This epic showdown will pit the best teams from each country in an epic showdown for the bragging rights and a share of the $50,000 prize pool. 

Additionally, the roadmap will happen in continuation with top teams from the previous IP getting invited to the next tournament. This has been done to ensure that top teams have more stability to focus on elevating talent instead of playing through the qualifiers each time. 

Besides these five global esports IPs, Skyesports will also be supporting grassroots-level collegiate and cafe events for Counter-Strike 2 in India with monetary and infrastructural support. 

The summary of the Skyesports Counter-Strike 2 Roadmap in 2024 is as follows: 

  • Skyesports Grand Slam: March 14 to 18 ($50,000) – India 
  • Skyesports Masters 2024: May 13 to 19 ($350,000) – India
  • Skyesports Championship 6.0: July 4 to 7 ($150,000) – India
  • Skyesports Souvenir: Sept. 13 to 15 ($150,000) – Colombo, Sri Lanka
  • Skyesports Global Tour: Oct. 25 to 27 ($250,000) – Bangkok, Thailand
  • India vs Pakistan Series: Dec. 20 to 22 ($50,000) – Abu Dhabi, UAE

Genshin Impact Version 4.4 Leaks Cloud Retainer Details

Aritra Patra
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Genshin Impact Version 4.4 Leaks Cloud Retainer Details

The latest Genshin Impact updates pull back the curtain on two new characters, Xianyun and Gaming, in its recent drip marketing campaign. Gamers are eagerly awaiting version 4.4, and these new characters are stirring up excitement.

Xianyun, the human form of Cloud Retainer, emerges as a five-star Anemo character and a Catalyst user. Her story takes an intriguing turn with her recent move to Liyue, a detail that adds depth to her character and links back to the story’s previous Archon quest.

Meanwhile, Gaming, previously known as Lion Dance Boy, steps into the spotlight as a four-star Pyro character, wielding a sword with prowess. This character’s arrival is not just about new gameplay possibilities but also about the creative naming that HoYoverse is known for.

Cloud Retainer in Genshin Impact 4.4

As the countdown to the release of Genshin Impact 4.4 begins, with an expected arrival on January 31, players are keen to dive into the new content. The previous version, Genshin Impact 4.3, introduced Navia and Chevreuse, adding more layers to the game’s already rich narrative and character roster.

Interestingly, earlier leaks hinted at the possibility of Madame Ping becoming a playable character. However, the focus has now shifted to Cloud Retainer, proving that Genshin Impact always has surprises up its sleeve.

Genshin Impact 4.4 isn’t just about new characters. It’s also set to enhance the gaming experience with the Lantern Rite and new outfits for fan-favorite characters Ganyu and Shenhe. These outfits, inspired by Xianyun’s design, reflect the intricate connections between the characters, as both Ganyu and Shenhe are disciples of Cloud Retainer.

Genshin Impact continues to captivate its audience with each update, weaving intricate narratives and introducing compelling characters. The arrival of Xianyun and Gaming in version 4.4 is a testament to HoYoverse’s commitment to keeping the game fresh, exciting, and engaging for its global community of players.

As we edge closer to the release, the anticipation is tangible, with players eagerly discussing and theorizing about the upcoming changes and additions​​​​.

How to Get Akuoumaru in Genshin Impact?

Aritra Patra
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How to Get Akuoumaru in Genshin Impact?

Genshin Impact, the enthralling action role-playing game, constantly intrigues players with its diverse array of weapons. One such weapon that stands out is the Akuoumaru, a 4-star Claymore, which has garnered considerable attention among the community.

This guide will dig into the details of Akuoumaru, exploring its unique characteristics and acquisition methods in the game.

What is Akuoumaru in Genshin Impact?

Akuoumaru is not just a weapon of power but also of beauty. It undergoes a visual transformation upon ascension, featuring a striking mix of silver, blue, and turquoise colors, with the blue along its edge turning a deeper shade, reminiscent of the ocean’s waves​​.

Immersed in the rich lore of Genshin Impact, Akuoumaru’s history is tied to a mighty general of Watatsumi, known for his formidable prowess in battle and his self-taught swordsmanship skills. The weapon embodies the spirit of the general, symbolizing both his valor and the dreams of his people​​.

  • Rarity: 4-Star
  • Weapon Type: Claymore
  • Secondary Stat: ATK%
  • Refinement Passive: Watatsumi Wavewalker
  • Region: Inazuma
  • Series: Watatsumi Series

Akuoumaru’s distinctive trait lies in its passive ability to boost Elemental Burst damage. This enhancement is directly proportional to the energy cost of the user’s entire party. Thus, it is especially beneficial for characters with high burst costs​​.

Refinement Levels and Effects:
  • Level 1: Increases Elemental Burst DMG by 0.12% per energy point, up to 40%.
  • Level 2: Boosts to 0.15% per energy point, capping at 50%.
  • Level 3: Enhances to 0.18%, with a maximum of 60%.
  • Level 4: Increases to 0.21% per point, up to 70%.
  • Level 5: Augments to 0.24% per energy point, achieving a maximum of 80% increase​​.

How to Get Akuoumaru in Genshin Impact?

Obtaining this weapon is exclusively possible through the Epitome Invocation event. Unlike 5-star event exclusives, there’s no guaranteed way to obtain it, making it a matter of luck and resources​​​​.

The ascension process of Akuoumaru involves various materials and significant improvements in stats. Players will need items like Coral Branch of a Distant Sea, Concealed Claw, and more, amounting to a total of 150,000 Mora​​​​.

While powerful in its niche, Akuoumaru requires thoughtful team composition. It’s most effective with characters having high burst damage output and teams with a high average burst cost. Sayu, with her 80 energy cost burst, emerges as an ideal candidate for wielding Akuoumaru​​​​.

Vitality crush FaZe to win the Blast Premier World Finals

Sarjyo Mukherjee
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Vitality crush FaZe to win the Blast Premier World Finals

Vitality having already bested FaZe at several points this year has managed to take the last trophy of the 2023 season from right under their nose by beating them 2-0 in the Grand Finals stage.

apEX has bested Karrigan for the second time at a stage like this, previously ending their remarkable winning streak and now beating them to win the last premier trophy of the year. Both teams having shown exception form in the tournament made this a spicy and one of the most highly anticipated matches of the CS2 era. Read through to find out how it unfolded.

  • Vitality removed Ancient
  • FaZe removed Vertigo
  • Vitality picked Inferno
  • FaZe picked Nuke
  • Vitality removed Mirage
  • FaZe removed Anubis
  • Overpass was left over

Map 1: Inferno (Pick: Vitality, Win: Vitality, Final Score: 13-5 )

Vitality had a tough start to their map pick of Inferno as FaZe managed to find a bomb plant in every round before winning a round on the fourth try. FaZe managed to put together 4 rounds in a row but that’s all they managed in the first half. ZyWoo dropped an MVP performance that was too much to handle for FaZe even with broky going toe to toe. Vitality got back on winning ways shutting down an execute to the A site shutdown that saw them close the half with a dominant 8-4 scoreline.

Vitality had flameZ start their second half of Inferno with a 1v3 clutch that sent FaZe packing. ZyWoo managed to replicate his form from the CT side as FaZe failed to find any answers to Vitality’s offence. Off the back of the pistol round, they steamrolled towards the matchpoint before FaZe were able to hold them back for a single round. apEX and co. managed to shut down any attempts of FaZe making a comeback to win their pick with a dominant 13-5 scoreline.

Map 2: Nuke (Pick: FaZe, Win: Vitality, Final Score: 13-7)

Nuke started with a pistol round win for Viatlity and starting round 3, FaZe picked up some form as they managed to win 5 rounds in a row only to be stopped by a 1v2 clutch from ZyWoo that kept FaZe from winning any more rounds on their offence. Vitality despite shedding a few rounds, had FaZe’s number every step of the way as they managed to win the half with a more competitive, 7-5 scoreline.

Coming into the second half, FaZe cut the lead in half but fell on the face of a Vitality force buy that followed. As the new signing frozen failed to deliver on the big stage, ZyWoo and co were hitting every shot that came their way. Slowly and methodically, Vitaltiy managed to break down FaZe’s defence yet again to win the map and the tournament with a 13-7 scoreline. ZyWoo was named the MVP with a rating of 1.69, having dropped 38 frags across both maps, thus ending the year on a high note, proving his critics wrong.

Stay updated with the latest news in gaming and esports by signing up for early access to TalkEsport’s Mobile App. Follow us on Twitter and Google News to ensure you never miss the exciting updates.

Blind Esports Emerges as the Winner of BMPS 2023

Hoax
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Blind Esports Emerges as the Winner of BMPS 2023

Blind Esports has emerged as the undisputed champions of the Battlegrounds Mobile India Pro Series (BMPS) 2023. The Grand Finals witnessed intense battles among the top 16 Indian teams, culminating in Blind Esports claiming the top spot and a lion’s share from the impressive INR 1 Crore prize pool.

Blind Esports’ Journey to Victory in BMPS 2023

Blind Esports showcased their dominance throughout the Grand Finals. After the first day of the tournament, Blind Esports was in second position on the overall leaderboard. On the second day, Blind Esports stepped up their game, which propelled it to the top position. The anticipation heightened on the final day, where it all mattered. But Blind Esports did not fall short. The team continued its dominance and won the tournament.

Gladiator Esports Secures Runner-up Position, Team iNSANE Emerges as Second Runner-up

Over the 16 matches played over three days, Blind Esports accumulated an impressive 249 points with 82 finishes. This commendable performance earned them the prestigious title and a massive cash prize of INR 40 Lakh, cementing their reputation as one of the best teams in India.

Securing the second position in the BMPS 2023 Grand Finals was Gladiator Esports. The team demonstrated remarkable skill, amassing a total of 224 points with 78 finishes. Their outstanding performance earned them a well-deserved cash prize of INR 20 Lakh.

Team iNSANE claimed the third position in the tournament. Accumulating a total of 796 points with 63 finishes, they proved their mettle and were rewarded with a cash prize of INR 10 Lakh.

BMPS 2023: MVP and Best IGL

Blind Esports’ Spower earned the coveted title of Most Valuable Player (MVP) of BMPS 2023. Spower’s outstanding contributions to the team earned him a well-deserved cash prize of INR 3 Lakh.

Additionally, Team iNSANE’s Aadi was honored as the Best In-Game Leader (IGL) of the tournament. His strategic acumen and leadership skills played a key part in guiding his team to success, earning them a notable cash prize of INR 2 Lakh.

As the curtains fall on BMPS 2023, Blind Esports has proved itself as the best Indian BGMI team. Until the next official tournament, Blind Esports will be the reigning champions of the BGMI esports scene.

Stay updated with the latest news in gaming and esports by signing up for early access to TalkEsport’s Mobile App. Follow us on Twitter and Google News to ensure you never miss the exciting updates.

Vinicius Jr joins Brazilian esports organization LOUD as co-owner

Sarjyo Mukherjee
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Vinicius Jr joins Brazilian esports organization LOUD as co-owner

Football sensation Vinicius Jr, a winger for Brazil and Real Madrid has joined Brazilian esports organisation LOUD as the co-owner.

LOUD has established itself as one of the biggest esports brands in the Latin American circuit that boasts teams across several games most notably Valorant and Free Fire. The team has consistently delivered impressive results in recent times in their region and with the investment coming in from Vini, the organization looks to reach the apex of esports.

Vini has been an avid gamer who has time and time again shown his proclivity toward playing video games in his time away from football. He is looked upon as an icon by youth of Brazil and the world holistically which will help LOUD grow their brand outside the realms of LATAM and esports.

According to the announcement, Vini joins as a co-owner and will appear in the organization’s content across YouTube and other social media.

“As a long-time gamer, I’ve seen the positive impact video games have on the lives and identity of Brazilian youth,” said Vini Jr. “Partnering with LOUD was a perfect fit. Together, we’ll produce great content, encourage young gamers to prioritize their studies, and support the next generation of athletes, either on the pitch or on the screen.”

LOUD co-founder Bruno Bittencourt added: “Vini Jr represents how gaming culture is evolving beyond the screen and into fashion, sports, and even social causes. Together, we’ll exercise that new identity by developing original content, supporting youth education, and finding new ways to improve communities throughout Brazil and Latin America. We’re very excited to welcome Vini Jr to LOUD’s ownership group as we work to inspire the next generation gamer.”

Vini has been very vocal about the challenges he faced growing up as a footballer, inside and outside the pitch. Being in a position of power, Vini looks to expand his influence to make the world a better place for everyone. No better place than an esports organization that will attract the up-and-coming youth towards his efforts.

Stay updated with the latest news in gaming and esports by signing up for early access to TalkEsport’s Mobile App. Follow us on Twitter and Google News to ensure you never miss the exciting updates.

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