The Perfect World Shanghai Major is heating up the Counter-Strike 2 competitive scene, bringing together the best teams from around the globe for an epic showdown. With an exciting new format, top-tier teams, and plenty of action-packed matches ahead, this tournament is shaping up to be one of the most exciting events in CS2 history. Whether you’re a hardcore fan or just diving into the competitive scene, there’s a lot to look forward to—and we’ve got all the details right here!

Shanghai Major Format: What’s New?

The Shanghai CS2 Major is organized by Perfect World, Valve’s partner responsible for publishing the Chinese versions of Counter-Strike and Dota 2. It’ll take place between November 30 and December 15, 2024, with a total prize pool of $1.25 million, including a $500,000 prize for the winning team. 

The Shanghai Major has introduced a revamped format that’s been the talk of the CS2 community. Here’s how it goes:

• Opening Stage (November 30–December 3): 16 teams will battle in a Swiss format to secure their spots in the next phase. 
• Elimination Stage (December 5–8): another group of 16 teams—including those from the Opening Stage—will compete in a similar Swiss format. 
• Playoffs (December 12–15), the top eight teams will advance to this final stage, culminating in a single-elimination bracket where every match is a best-of-three (BO3).

In a controversial move, the tournament has dropped open qualifiers for North America, South America, and Europe. Instead, teams were invited based on Valve’s regional rankings. 

The change has sparked comparisons to Valorant’s competitive format, with some fans praising the streamlined approach while others miss the excitement of up-and-coming teams earning their spot through qualifiers. Love it or hate it, the format promises a fast-paced, high-stakes tournament that’s perfect for CS2’s explosive gameplay.

CS2 Shanghai Major Teams: Who’s Competing

The tournament features a mix of qualified and invited teams, including some of the biggest names in CS2. Fan favorites like Vitality, NAVI, and G2 Esports are in the mix, alongside rising stars who are ready to make their mark. With rosters packed with talent and teams hungry for victory, the competition is fierce.

Here’s the complete list of CS2 Shanghai Major teams who qualified for each stage:

Opening Stage (November 30–December 3): 

1. Cloud9 (Ax1Le, icy, interz, HeavyGod, Boombl4)
2. Fnatic (KRIMZ, body, nawwk, blameF, MATYS)
3. GamerLegion (ztr, Tauson, volt, sl3nd, FL4MUS)
4. Passion UA (fear, jambo, s-chilla, jackasmo, zeRRoFIX)
5. Virtus.Pro (electroNic, FL1T, Jame, n0rb3r7, fame)
6. BIG (tabseN, syrsoN, rigoN, JDC, Krimbo)
7. Complexity (EliGE, JT, floppy, hallzerk, Grim)
8. PaiN (biguzera, nqz, kauez, snow, lux)
9. MBIR (exit, Lucaozy, saffee, drop, insani)
10. FURIA (FalleN, chelo, yuurih, KSCERATO, skullz)
11. Liquid (jks, NAF, Twistzz, YEKINDAR, ultimate)
12. Imperial (felps, VINI, try, decent, noway)
13. Wildcard (Stanislaw, Sonic, phzy, susp, JBa)
14. The MongolZ (bLitz, Techno, Senzu, mzinho, 910)
15. FlyQuest (dexter, Liazz, aliStair, INS, Vexite)
16. Rare Atom (Summer, somebody, kaze, ChildKing, L1haNg)

Elimination Stage (December 5–8):

17. MOUZ (Brollan, siuhy, torzsi, Jimpphat, xertioN)
18. Vitality (apEX, ZywOo, flameZ, Spinx, mezii)
19. NAVI (Aleksib, iM, b1t, jL, w0nderful)
20. FaZe (ropz, karrigan, rain, frozen, broky)
21. Spirit (chopper, donk, magixx, zont1c, sh1ro)
22. G2 Esports (NiKo, m0NESY, huNter-, malbsMd, Snax)
23. Heroic (NertZ, TeSeS, sjuush, degster, kyxsan)
24. 3DMAX (Maka, Lucky, Ex3rcise, Graviti, Djoko)

CS2 Shanghai Major Favorites: Teams to Watch

As the Perfect World Shanghai Major heats up, all eyes are on the top contenders battling for supremacy in the world of Counter-Strike 2. Among the favorites, G2 Esports leads the pack, riding high on a wave of success after clinching two tier-one tournament wins in recent months. With heavy hitters like NiKo and m0NESY leading the charge, G2 boasts a deadly combination of experience, skill, and teamwork. However, the looming departure of NiKo has introduced an element of uncertainty—will the team rally behind their star’s final run or falter under the pressure?

NAVI heads into the Major as the HLTV number 1 top-ranking team in the world, so they’re ones to watch for sure. Another powerhouse to watch is Team Spirit, a squad known for their sharp strategies and adaptability. Despite occasional dips in form, Spirit’s resilience and ability to outthink opponents make them a formidable contender in any bracket. Their disciplined playstyle often catches even the most aggressive teams off guard, and their recent performances suggest they’re ready to make a serious push for the title. 

The regional favorites also bring an exciting dynamic to the competition. Rare Atom and The MongolZ, representing the Asia-Pacific region, have already turned heads with their solid performances in the RMR qualifiers. Rare Atom’s well-coordinated tactics and The MongolZ’s raw firepower give them the tools to challenge even the best teams in the tournament. For fans of underdog stories, these squads could be the dark horses to watch.

In the Americas, Team Liquid and FURIA Esports are two of the biggest names, though both have struggled with consistency in recent matches. Team Liquid, with its rich legacy, will look to reclaim its dominance, while FURIA hopes to overcome recent hurdles and bring their signature aggressive playstyle back into form. Both teams are capable of delivering jaw-dropping performances if they can find their rhythm during the Major.

Where to Watch the CS2 Shanghai Major

You can catch all the action live on PGL’s official Twitch and YouTube channels, where every match will be broadcast with expert commentary and analysis. For a more personal touch, popular streamers like ohnePixel, fl0m, and olofmeister will be co-streaming the event, offering their insights and banter.

The Perfect World Shanghai Major isn’t just another tournament—it’s a showcase of the best CS2 has to offer. With new twists to the format, a stacked roster of teams, and the promise of unforgettable plays, this is an event you won’t want to miss. So grab your snacks, pick your favorite team, and get ready for a wild ride to the grand finals!