Valve Faces Backlash Over Mid-Tournament Rule Amendments for Shanghai Major
The announcement from Valve regarding changes to qualification rules mid-way through the European RMR for the Shanghai Major has incited significant unrest among Counter-Strike professional teams and the broader gaming community.
Previous Qualification Structure
Initially, teams that secured a top 4 finish in the European RMRs were guaranteed entry to the “Elimination Stage”of the Major, allowing them to bypass the Opening Stage and ensuring at least a top 16 placement.
Recent Developments
Leading teams such as FaZe, NAVI, Vitality, and Mouz successfully earned their Elimination Stage spots through European RMR A. Meanwhile, the underdogs BIG and 3DMAX surprised many by finishing 3-0 in RMR B, which also appeared to secure them a top 16 slot.
Unexpected Rule Change by Valve
On November 22, after both BIG and 3DMAX celebrated their anticipated qualification, Valve abruptly altered the rules. The new directive indicated that Elimination Stage slots would now be determined solely by Valve’s own Regional Standings (VRS).
Impact on Teams
This unexpected change left BIG and 3DMAX—ranked 19th and 13th respectively on the VRS—uncertain about their chances. Instead of their guaranteed spots, they may now find themselves competing in the Opening Stage.
Reactions from Players
BIG’s captain, tabseN, expressed his disappointment and resilience, stating, “Crazy to change rules mid-tournament… life is unfair sometimes, but it’s just another challenge to accept and overcome. We are proud of our performance so far.”
“It’s insane, that has to be the worst thing a tournament organizer has done in a long time… didn’t you already plan your next days/could have booked flights home?”
Teammate syrsoN labeled the situation as “fraud in competition,” highlighting the emotional toll it has taken on the team. Fellow player JDC described the change as “heartbreak,” emphasizing their prior celebrations and the subsequent shock at the sudden revision to rules.
The official BIG Clan Twitter account succinctly summed up the sentiment: “That’s honestly crazy.”
3DMAX Approaches the Situation with Humor
In a lighter take on the unfolding drama, 3DMAX humorously claimed they were going “straight to the grand final” after their victory against G2, the top-ranked team.
“VALVE UPDATE: We have been told we go straight to the Grand final since we just beat the #1 team in the Valve ranking.”
Community Reaction and Criticism
The CS2 community responded overwhelmingly to the mid-tournament rule change, expressing their outrage on various platforms. One participant commented, “This is bullsh*t. Regardless of what the elimination stage slots should be based on, rules should NEVER change mid-RMR.”
Concerns about the integrity of the competition emerged, with many asserting that such alterations undermine the principles of fair play. “The timing is outrageous; it feels as if this was planned to specifically disadvantage BIG and 3DMAX,” noted another user.
Conclusion
As it stands, both teams are left with uncertainty regarding their placement in the Major, which is set to commence on November 30. The situation has highlighted the need for clearer communication and strict adherence to established rules in esports events.
For the latest updates on the Shanghai Major, stay tuned here.
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