VCT OFF/SEASON Spotlight Series format explained

VALORANT fans in EMEA have some updates to look forward to this fall as Riot Games is introducing its first VCT OFF//SEASON Spotlight Series. This new mixed-gender tournament promises to be the next step towards a more inclusive competitive scene and will see over 50 players compete for a hefty prize pool.

The VCT OFF//SEASON Spotlight Series kicks off online from Oct. 10 to 16, with the grand finale set to take place in LAN at the Paris Games Week on Oct. 24. Paris Games Week, one of Europe’s largest gaming events, will host the finals on its Main Stage, which can accommodate up to 2.000 spectators, making this one of the biggest stages where Game Changers players will compete on. The tournament will feature 14 invited teams from the VCT and Challengers circuits, competing for a share of a €30.000 ($33.366) prize pool.

VCT Spotlight Series format

The Spotlight Series will follow a double elimination bracket format, seeding teams based on their previous performances across other competitions. The top two teams will receive a first-round bye, allowing them to advance directly to the second round of the Upper Bracket and thus skip the initial elimination rounds.

The Lower Bracket features six rounds and acts as a redemption path for teams eliminated from the Upper Bracket. And though details on the matches’ format have yet to be revealed, most of the tournament will likely be played on best-of-one games, with the last few rounds turning into best-of-threes and a possible best-of-five for the LAN final. 

Who can participate in VCT Spotlight Series?

Participation in the Spotlight Series is by invitation only. Each team must include at least two Game Changers players in their roster, likely following the rulesets of the marginalized genders circuit. 

Launched to support women and non-binary players, the GC circuit provides a safe and supportive space for marginalized genders to compete and grow. Introducing mixed-gender tournaments is considered a natural extension of this program, reflecting Riot’s broader vision of a more inclusive and diverse esports ecosystem.

The VCT Spotlight Series is set to be an exciting addition to the VALORANT competitive OFF//SEASON calendar. Alongside the VCT EMEA Game Changers Stage Three Finals, it will cap off the VALORANT competitive season with a bang, offering fans and players unforgettable experiences—both in person and via live stream.