AUSTIN, Texas — Austin has taken center stage this June as the city hosts the BLAST.tv Austin Major, one of the world’s biggest events in esports — a fast-growing form of competitive video gaming that draws huge crowds and online audiences.
What Is the BLAST.tv Austin Major?
Think of it as the Super Bowl of gaming. This tournament features the top professional players of Counter-Strike 2 (CS2), a popular team-based video game that combines strategy, quick reflexes, and teamwork. For the first time in over seven years, the United States is hosting a major Counter-Strike tournament, and Austin was chosen for the honor.
Over 32 teams from around the world have gathered to compete for a $1.25 million prize pool, with the winning team earning $500,000.
When and Where Is It Happening?
The tournament began on June 3 and will conclude on June 22, 2025.
The final stage — where the top teams battle for the championship — is happening at the Moody Center, a large arena in downtown Austin that can hold up to 16,000 fans. Earlier matches took place at smaller venues around the city.
Why Does This Matter?
Hosting the BLAST.tv Austin Major is a big deal for Austin:
- Economic boost: The event is expected to generate about $30 million for the local economy through hotels, restaurants, and tourism.
- Massive audiences: Around 50,000 people are attending in person over the course of the event, and millions more are watching online from all over the world.
- Spotlight on esports: This marks Austin’s rise as a major destination for live entertainment, beyond its well-known music and film festivals.
What’s Happening in the Competition?
The tournament is split into stages. Teams play against each other in a series of matches to determine who advances to the next round and who is eliminated. The final stage is a knockout round: lose, and you’re out. The last team standing wins the championship.
What Is Counter-Strike 2?
Counter-Strike 2 is a video game where two teams of five players face off in virtual arenas. One team attacks, and the other defends. The game emphasizes communication, precision, and quick decision-making. It’s been a staple of esports for over 20 years.
Why Are People So Excited?
Fans describe attending the Major as a once-in-a-lifetime experience — like seeing a World Series or NBA Finals game. Tickets to the playoffs sold out in just six hours. The event is being called the most significant esports tournament ever held in Texas.
How Can People Watch?
If you’re in Austin, you can catch the final matches live at the Moody Center from June 19 to June 22. Globally, millions are tuning in through streaming platforms like BLAST.tv, where matches are broadcast free of charge.