Key Highlights of VCT 2025
1. Expanded Global Events
The 2025 season will feature global events in three new locations: Valorant Masters Bangkok (February 2025) – Kicking off the year in Southeast Asia. Valorant Masters Toronto (June 2025) – Bringing the action to the East Coast of North America. Valorant Champions Paris (End of Season) – Concluding the season in the City of Lights. These new venues will offer fans around the world the chance to experience high-level Valorant action live.
2. Changes to the Season Format
In response to feedback and the evolving nature of competitive play, Riot Games is making several significant changes to the VCT format: Extended Season: The season will now run from January to October, aligning better with the game’s competitive cycle and shortening the offseason. Championship Points System: Teams will earn points throughout the year that will help them qualify for the Champions tournament. The points system is being updated to give more credit to teams that perform well at Masters events. Expanded Playoffs: The playoffs will grow from 6 to 8 teams, keeping more teams in contention for longer and providing additional chances to qualify for global events.
3. New Kickoff Tournament Format
The season will start in January with a new Kickoff Tournament. It will have 12 teams competing in a double-elimination format, and the top two teams will qualify for Masters Bangkok. Stage 1: In the first stage, teams will compete to qualify for Masters Toronto. The top three teams from each league will advance. Stage 2: This stage will allow teams to start fresh, with no records carrying over from Stage 1. Teams will fight for a spot in the final playoffs. Playoffs: The playoffs will now include 8 teams instead of 6, giving more teams a chance to stay in the competition and qualify for global events. Valorant Champions Paris: The season ends with Champions Paris, where the top teams from Stage 2 playoffs and those with the most Championship Points will compete to become the best Valorant team in the world.
4. Game Changers Championship Expansion
In November, the Game Changers Championship will take place at the new Riot Games Arena in Berlin. The tournament is expanding from 8 to 10 teams, giving more players the opportunity to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level.
5. Continued Development and Integration
Riot Games is committed to bringing the VCT into the game itself. The introduction of Premiere and the Esports Hub continues to evolve, with new features like Pick’em and new team capsules to make the experience better for players and fans. As Valorant celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2025, the VCT season will be more exciting and competitive than ever. With a longer season, new formats, more global events, and better support for teams, VCT 2025 is set to deliver amazing moments and highlight the best Valorant players.