Looking Ahead
Hey everyone! I'm happy to announce some exciting updates and changes coming to the Game Changers ecosystem.
One of the many reasons we love gaming and esports at Riot is that, unlike traditional sports, gaming eliminates physical barriers, creating a truly level playing field for all. At its core, this is what Game Changers is all about. We aim to bridge the systemic gap that has persisted in gaming for far too long.
Our Vision for Game Changers
Game Changers aims to create a future where players of all backgrounds are inspired to pursue and compete in VALORANT, playing together and not segregated by gender.
Our goal is for the best Game Changers players to find success in other parts of the VCT ecosystem (i.e., Challengers & International Leagues). Players like meL, mimi, daiki, and florescent have been pivotal in inspiring a new generation of talent with their success. For 2024, we are implementing new policies to support the growth of a united and level playing field within our sport.
Upward Player Mobility
After speaking with numerous Game Changers participants, a consistent trend emerged: players want to take the next step and earn the right to compete in Challengers and International Leagues. While some players have already taken this step, we want to make it easier for more players to follow. To facilitate this path, we’re introducing new rules to encourage participation in Premier and make it easier for players to advance into Challengers and International Leagues:
Premier’s Path to Pro: With the introduction of Invite into Premier starting Episode 9 Act 1, every Act of Premier will promote teams up to Challengers. This means that going forward, Game Changers teams will have consistent chances to break into Challengers. We’re making changes so players are no longer forced to choose between competing in Game Changers and Premier/Challengers.
Premier Access: Game Changers-eligible teams can be admitted into the Invite Division if they meet certain ranked criteria. This rule is meant for teams that can't compete in both Game Changers and Premier simultaneously throughout the year. More details will be announced as the Invite Division rolls out.
Premier Byes: Game Changers players will earn byes for Premier matches (outside of playoffs) when there’s a scheduling conflict with a Game Changers match that can’t be avoided. This only applies to Game Changers-eligible rosters.
Challenger League Qualifiers: Game Changers teams that qualify for the Game Changers Championship will be automatically invited to their local Challengers League’s qualifier where they will have a chance to earn a spot in their local Challengers League.
Relaxed Residency Rules: Game Changers players will be considered universal slots for regional (Challengers League) and territory (International League) requirements and not count as an import. In the past, the distributed nature of Game Changers rosters created friction when attempting to participate in other tiers of competition.
Flexible Signings: Game Changers players can be signed anytime by Challengers or International League teams, bypassing all transfer windows and restrictions.
Concurrent Ownership Exception: Organizations operating at the International or Challengers League level will be allowed to field an additional roster within other tiers of the sport if the second roster is composed primarily of Game Changers players.
An organization already fielding a roster in the International Leagues will be allowed to field a Challengers League team, provided 3/5 of the roster are Game Changers eligible.
An organization already fielding a roster in the Challengers Leagues will be allowed to field a second team that competes in Premier or a Challengers League, provided 3/5 of the roster are Game Changers eligible.
Two-Way Players: Subject to eligibility, Game Changers players can compete as Two-Way players, allowing them to compete on both an IL team and its associated secondary team.
Single-Team Exception: Subject to eligibility, Game Changers players can compete for both a GC team and a CL team simultaneously.
Fostering Mixed-Gender Competition
We believe that mixed rosters are the future. Starting in the 2024 OFF//SEASON, Riot will be testing out some mixed-gender tournaments. This initiative will foster inclusivity and provide more opportunities for diverse talent to shine together.
Expanding the Game Changers Championship
We’re also excited to announce that the Game Changers Championship will return to the Riot Games Arena in Berlin, Germany! From November 8-17, the 10 best teams from around the world will compete for the title of Game Changers Champions!
With the expansion to a fourth International League and the success in APAC, the Game Changers Championship will grow from 8 to 10 teams, providing more opportunities for teams worldwide. We believe that increasing the opportunity at the biggest Game Changers moment is the best way to foster growth and support new teams.
We are deeply inspired by the remarkable progress we’ve witnessed and the trailblazers setting powerful examples for the next generation. Our vision for Game Changers is clear and unwavering, and we are committed to supporting GC players as they rise to compete on the biggest stages of VALORANT in the future.
Thank you to the entire Game Changers community! We’re excited to continue building the future together.
