Esports World Cup 2024: Dota 2 Titans Clash for $5 Million

Dota 2

3 Jun

Ahmed Alghanim

The Esports World Cup 2024 is on the horizon, from July 3rd to August 25th. This highly anticipated event comes with a staggering $60 million prize pool. Although the distribution across games is still being finalized, Dota 2 leads the pack with an impressive $5 million allocation.

In this article, we will explore the lineup of powerhouse teams that have already secured their spots, delve into the intense regional qualifiers still underway, break down the tournament format that promises non-stop action, and provide a breakdown of the prize pool.

A new Era for Esports is on the Horizon. (Credit: Esports World Cup)

Prize Pool Breakdown

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has unveiled the Esports World Cup, starting annually in Riyadh from summer 2024. Building on Gamers8's success, this event will be a monumental festival of esports, showcasing elite gaming talent and strategic prowess.

The Esports World Cup 2024 is set to break records with a jaw-dropping prize pool of over $60 million. This event has strategically divided the prize money to enhance the competition across various levels. Over $30 million is dedicated to Game Championships, with 19 different titles sharing this pot. Dota 2 shines brightly with a substantial $5 million allocation, ensuring some of the most intense matches in the tournament.

Unprecedented Prize Pool in Esports History. (Credit: Esports World Cup)

In addition, the Esports World Cup 2024 will reward the top 16 organizations with a $20 million prize pool in the Club Championships, promoting consistent excellence across multiple games. To keep the competition fierce from the beginning, $7.6 million is designated for the qualifiers. Additionally, $1.1 million will be awarded to MVPs, with $50,000 for the standout performer in each game.

Riyadh Masters

The Riyadh Masters has been a highlight in the Dota 2 competitive scene, debuting with a $4 million prize pool in 2022 and escalating to a staggering $15 million in 2023. Although this year's prize pool is $5 million, the Club Championship offers opportunities to increase it, adding a dynamic twist to the competition.

Qualified Teams

The qualification process has already seen eight teams secure their places through the EPT leaderboard, which considered performances from DreamLeague Seasons 22 and 23 as well as ESL One events.

The victorious teams are Team Falcons, BetBoom Team, Gaimin Gladiators, Xtreme Gaming, Tundra Esports, Team Liquid, OG, and Team Spirit. These squads have demonstrated exceptional skill and consistency, rightfully earning their spots.

Will Riyadh Masters 2024 Beat The International 2024 Prize Pool ?

Regional Qualifiers

The anticipation is escalating as regional qualifiers for the Esports World Cup 2024 proceed, with teams striving for a chance to reach the Riyadh Masters. Each region is vigorously competing for their designated slots:

Western Europe: 2 spots (Virtus.Pro, TBD)
Eastern Europe: 1 spot (TBD)
MENA (Middle East and North Africa): 1 spot (TBD)
China: 3 spots (G2 x iG, TBD, TBD)
Southeast Asia: 2 spots (Aurora, Blacklist International)
North America: 1 spot (Nouns)
South America: 2 spots (TBD, TBD)

These qualifiers are a true test of skill and determination, with each match bringing teams one step closer to the grand stage. The journey is intense as teams from around the globe aim to make their mark in esports history.

Is it time to become the back-to-back, two-time Riyadh Masters champions? (Credit: Valve)

Riyadh Masters Format

Riyadh Masters 2024 kicks off an engaging format that begins with the Play-In Stage (July 4 - July 7, 2024). Twelve teams from the regional qualifiers are split into two groups of six and play in a single round-robin format where all matches are Best of 2 (Bo2). Subsequently, the top three teams from each group advance to the Group Stage, while the 4th and 5th place teams face their counterparts from the opposite group for a chance to advance. Losers face elimination.

The Group Stage (July 10 - July 14, 2024) features two groups of eight teams in a single round-robin format with Bo2 matches. Consequently, The top four teams from each group advance to the upper bracket of the playoffs, while the 5th and 6th place teams move to the lower bracket. Teams placing below 6th face elimination from the tournament.

Finally, the Playoffs (July 16 - July 21, 2024) use a double-elimination bracket to determine the ultimate champion. All matches except for the Grand Final are Best of Three, with the Grand Final being Best of Five. This format ensures a thrilling finale, highlighting the most resilient and skilled teams as champions.

Where To Watch

As the countdown to July 3rd begins, anticipation and excitement continue to build. Whether you're a seasoned esports enthusiast or a newcomer, the Esports World Cup 2024 promises thrilling action and unforgettable moments.

Don't Miss One of the Most Anticipated Events. (Credits: Esports World Cup)

Catch all the excitement of the Esports World Cup 2024 on major streaming platforms like Twitch and YouTube. These platforms will offer comprehensive live coverage, ensuring viewers don't miss a single moment of the action. For Dota 2 fans, tune into the official Twitch channel, EWC_Dota2, which is already broadcasting some of the regional qualifier matches, providing a taste of the intense competition.

Featured Image Source: Esports World Cup