New Format Revealed for BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025

New Format Revealed for BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025

The BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 is preparing for a revolution in the format of the tournament, which will increase from 24 to 32 teams. This change means that there is an increase in the number of talents across the globe, making the battleground more competitive and inclusive.

Breaking Down the Invitations

The 32 teams will compete across three distinct stages:

  • Stage 1: 16 teams will fight for their chance in the Major Regional Qualifiers (MRQ).
  • Stage 2: 8 teams will qualify through Valve Regional Standings (VRS) due to their regular regional performances.
  • Stage 3: Another 8 teams will receive direct invitations based on outstanding performances in the Winter Major 2024 playoffs.

The system is oriented to the regional level. For example, the teams that reached the finals of the Winter 2024 Major will be given extra spots for their regions.

Goodbye RMR, Hello MRQ

Valve has changed the format of the qualification. The known Regional Major Rankings (RMR) are no longer a thing, and now there are Major Regional Qualifiers (MRQ). While the trusty Swiss system remains for Europe and America, and Double-Elimination playoffs continue for Asia, a pivotal shift has been made:

All invitations will now be based on Valve’s ranking system.

This means that every match of the season has some importance, giving significance to regional derbies and stability.

Key Points About MRQ

Here’s a quick breakdown of the MRQ system:

  • There will be one qualification event in each region for the Major.
  • Tournaments can be played online in case of some logistical issues.
  • If a region is divided for lower ping, such as America with NA and SA, slots will be divided equally. Any remaining spots will be assigned to the subdivision with the best team.
  • MRQ invitations are determined by Valve’s regional standings. Any vacancies will be filled through the open qualifiers.

Regional Slot Distribution

The distribution of MRQ slots highlights the depth of talent in Europe, America, and Asia:

  • Europe: 16 MRQ invitations, 6 Stage 1 slots.
  • America: 16 MRQ invitations, 6 Stage 1 slots.
  • Asia: 8 MRQ invitations, 4 Stage 1 slots.

Summer 2025 Major Invitations

For the Austin Major itself, Europe dominates the invite pool across all stages:

  • Stage 1: 6 teams per region.
  • Stage 2: Europe 4, America 4, Asia 0.
  • Stage 3: Europe (6), America (1), Asia (1).

Event Details

Mark your calendars: The BLAST.tv Austin Major 2025 takes place from June 9 to June 22, and the teams will be fighting for $1,250,000 USD.

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