Counter-Strike 2025: A transformative year for esports, full of excitement
 

The Counter-Strike esports scene is set for a transformative year in 2025. Valve’s revamped Major format introduces 32 teams across four stages, with the Swiss system debuting in regional qualifiers for Europe, America, and Asia-Pacific. This change replaces the RMR system, standardizing invitations through Valve’s ranking system while banning franchise leagues. 

The legendary Train map is back, taking Vertigo's spot in major tournaments, and the gaming community has plenty to say about it! Meanwhile, organizers like ESL still have the freedom to hand out invites based on players' performance. 

In 2025, big tournaments will dominate the Counter-Strike calendar. Prize pools exceeding $1,000,000 have doubled compared to 2024, with 11 major events already announced. Notably, the FISSURE Playground series debuts in Belgrade, while StarLadder returns with StarSeries Season 20 in Budapest. 

Regional esports growth is evident, with Skyesports Masters upgraded to Tier-S status and MENA tournaments like YaLLa Compass expanding. The Esports World Cup prize pool also climbs to $1.25M, reflecting global enthusiasm. 

The action kicks off with PGL’s expanded 2025 lineup, including stops in Cluj-Napoca, Bucharest, and Astana. With events nearly every weekend, 2025 promises an exhilarating year for Counter-Strike fans worldwide.