FISSURE Playground 1: teams, format, how to watch

Image of Counter-Strike 2 player models wearing sunglasses. A player wearing a gas mask is in between the two people wearing sunglasses

After a short post-Major break, the Counter-Strike 2 esports circuit has roared back into life for the second half of 2025.

The inaugural FISSURE Playground event will see 16 teams from around the world head to Belgrade, Serbia to compete for a share of a $1m (~£741,770) prize pool.

Ahead of the event, here’s everything you need to know about it, including the participating teams, format and schedule.

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FISSURE Playground 1 Format Explained

The 16 teams competing will be split into four groups of four using the GSL format. The top two teams from each group will advance to the Playoffs, which will use a single-elimination bracket to determine the eventual winner.

While the top two teams advance to the Playoffs, the bottom two are eliminated from the tournament. All matches up to the Grand Final will see teams compete in a best-of-three series. The Grand Final will use a best-of-five.

FISSURE Playground 1 Teams

Below are all the teams competing in the Group Stage of FISSURE Playground 1. The 16 teams were determined based on the May Valve Regional Standings (VRS).

Group A

  • GamerLegion
  • FURIA
  • SAW
  • Wildcard

Group B

  • 3DMAX
  • Rare Atom
  • 3DMAX
  • PaiN Gaming

Group C

  • Virtus.pro
  • TYLOO
  • MIBR
  • Astralis

Group D

  • BetBoom Team
  • BIG
  • Complexity
  • HEROIC

FURIA heads into the event as the only team from within the top ten of the July VRS following an appearance in the Playoffs of the Austin Major.

Chinese Counter-Strike continues to increase its presence on the international stage, with TYLOO and Rare Atom representing the country and competing for a chance to earn VRS points.

HEROIC and Virtus.pro are also in contention to lift the trophy, with both making roster changes after the Major in a bid to end the year on the front foot.

FISSURE Playground 1 Prize Pool

A whopping $1m (~£741,770) is up for grabs at FISSURE Playground 1. Below is a full breakdown of its distribution:

  • 1st: $150,000
  • 2nd: $100,000
  • 3rd/4th: $35,000
  • 5th/8th: $17,500
  • 9th/12th: $10,000
  • 13th/16th: $5,000

How To Watch FISSURE Playground 1

Fans can tune into FISSURE Playground 1 across the tournament organiser’s Twitch, YouTube and VK channels.

Source: https://esportsinsider.com/

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