Counter-Strike Comes to Budapest: StarSeries CS2 Tournament 2025

StarSeries CS2 Tournament 2025: Esports Extravaganza in Budapest

If you’re a fan of Counter-Strike and esports, you won’t want to miss the StarSeries CS2 Tournament taking place September 13-21, 2025 in Budapest, Hungary. This premier tournament will bring together the world’s best Counter-Strike: Global Offensive players and teams battling it out for a prize pool of at least $500,000.

The StarSeries CS2

Hosted by the renowned StarLadder tournament organizers, StarSeries CS2 is shaping up to be one of the biggest CS:GO events of the year. A total of 20 teams will compete, with the top squads receiving direct invitations based on their global rankings. The remaining spots will be filled through online qualifiers in the NA/SA and European regions.

The tournament kicks off with a group stage from September 13-17 featuring 16 teams. The top finishers will then advance to the double-elimination main event from September 18-21 to crown the StarSeries champion.

Why Attend?

  • World-Class Teams: The tournament will feature 20 of the best Counter-Strike 2 teams globally. Twelve teams will receive direct invitations based on the Valve Ranking System (VRS), while four teams will qualify through regional online tournaments in North America, South America, and Europe.
  • Exciting Format: The event kicks off with a Group Stage (September 13–17) using a GSL format. The top teams will advance to the Main Event (September 18–21), which follows a double-elimination bracket. All matches are played in a Best-of-3 format, ensuring high-stakes and strategic gameplay.
  • Massive Prize Pool: With a minimum prize pool of $500,000, this tournament offers intense competition and significant rewards for the participating teams.
  • Vibrant Location: Hosted in Budapest, a city renowned for its rich culture and esports-friendly atmosphere.

Key Updates for StarSeries Fall (September 13–21, 2025)

Online Qualifiers

Before the main event in Budapest, online qualifiers will determine which teams earn a spot in the tournament. The qualifier details are as follows:

  • North America:
    • Format: Double Elimination
    • Teams: 8
    • Dates: July 15–21, 2025
    • Advancement: Top-1 team qualifies for StarSeries
  • South America:
    • Format: Double Elimination
    • Teams: 8
    • Dates: July 15–21, 2025
    • Advancement: Top-1 team qualifies for StarSeries
  • Europe:
    • Format: Double Elimination
    • Teams: 16
    • Dates: August 12–17, 2025
    • Advancement: Top-2 teams qualify for StarSeries

All qualifier invitations will be distributed based on the Valve Ranking System (VRS). Matches will follow a Best-of-3 (Bo3) format to ensure competitive integrity.

Invite Date

The official invite list for both the qualifiers and the main event will be announced on July 4, 2025, following the conclusion of the June Major tournament.

Cancellation of StarSeries Spring (May 26 – June 1, 2025)

Unfortunately, the planned Spring Season of StarSeries has been canceled due to scheduling conflicts caused by the extended timeline of the June Major tournament. Organizers have confirmed that rescheduling is not feasible due to a lack of available weekends in the first half of the year. This cancellation shifts all focus to making StarSeries Fall an exceptional event.

What Makes StarSeries Fall Unmissable?

The cancellation of StarSeries Spring only heightens anticipation for StarSeries Fall. Here’s why you should attend:

  • Witness elite players and teams battle it out live on stage.
  • Experience an electrifying atmosphere at one of the most prestigious Counter-Strike tournaments.
  • Enjoy Budapest’s vibrant culture and history between matches.

Tickets

Tickets for StarSeries CS2 are expected to go on sale in early 2025. Mark your calendars and make plans to be in Budapest this September for one of the most prestigious events in professional Counter-Strike. Between the matches, you can also explore this beautiful European city’s rich history, culture, cuisine and more. It’s sure to be a can’t-miss event for esports enthusiasts.

Conclusion

The StarSeries CS2 Tournament Fall is shaping up to be one of the highlights of the esports calendar in 2025. Whether you’re a hardcore Counter-Strike fan or simply curious about competitive gaming, this tournament offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in professional esports while exploring the beautiful city of Budapest. Mark your calendar for September and prepare for an unforgettable experience!

Image source: StarLadder

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StarSeries CS2 Tournament 2025: Esports Extravaganza in Budapest