Why We Need Slot Expansion in CS:GO Majors
There is a need for slot expansion in CS:GO Majors. Let’s explore the arguments from both sides.
Region and Slot Limitation
The current system for CS:GO Majors is outdated. It involves 16 teams, with 8 teams being invited based on their performance in the previous Major and the other 8 teams qualifying through tournaments.
This system gives too much advantage to the teams that pass the group stage in the previous Major. Even if they lose in the quarterfinals, they are guaranteed a spot in the next Major and all the benefits that come with it.
On the other hand, teams that didn’t make it past the group stage have to fight for a spot in the next Major through numerous qualifiers, both online and offline. This creates an unfair situation and limits the opportunity for other teams to showcase their talent.
It’s important to pay attention to the 8-32 ranked teams, as too much focus on the top 8 hinders growth and makes the teams outside the top 8 irrelevant. Many deserving teams have missed out on the Major due to region saturation and the difficulty of playing in best-of-one series qualifiers.
Teams like Tempo Storm, Dignitas, HellRaisers, SK Gaming, Vexed Gaming, and Renegades have missed out on the Major due to different reasons. We should provide opportunities to these teams by expanding the slots in the Major.
Money and Power
This part focuses on online leagues and how increasing the number of offline slots can decrease their value.
A new organization called the World Esports Association (WESA) is using the top 8 teams in Europe as a bargaining chip in negotiations with streaming platforms, tournament organizers, and sponsors. This further separates the top 8 teams from the rest and creates an unfair system.
By increasing the number of teams competing in a Major, we can decrease the influence and power of WESA. More leagues like ELEAGUE and FACEIT’s league with substantial prize pools have the potential to create successful leagues without relying on the 8 WESA founding members.
This will open doors for successful teams and brands to enter CS:GO, bringing in more money and sponsors. It’s essential to understand the importance of every team and slot in order to maximize the potential of the esports industry.
Article by: @TRBA8L