The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 is set to make waves in the esports community with a significant format change. This year’s event will introduce a best-of-five Grand Final, marking a first for Counter-Strike Majors. The announcement comes amid calls from the community for an update to the Major format to align it with other top-tier tournaments.
Major Format Evolution
The 2025 season finale in Budapest will be historic as it becomes the first Counter-Strike Major to use five maps in the final showdown. This change follows the practices of other prestigious tournaments, such as those organized by ESL, BLAST, and FISSURE. Notably, the recent Thunderpick World Championship featured FURIA’s thrilling reverse sweep victory over NAVI in a best-of-five final.
Starting with the Budapest Major, all future Majors will also feature a best-of-five Grand Final. Previously, Majors concluded with a best-of-three series.
In addition to the revised format, StarLadder revealed an exciting stage layout for the playoffs at the MVM Dome, which will occur from December 11th to 14th. The 20,000-seat arena will boast a 360-degree stage setup, ensuring fans have an unobstructed view of the action.
Community Reaction
The introduction of best-of-five Grand Finals has been warmly received by the community. Many fans have praised the decision as a significant advancement for the game’s premier tournaments. However, some community members are calling for further changes, particularly the removal of best-of-one matches in the group stage.
The shift to best-of-five Grand Finals is a promising development for Counter-Strike Majors. With Valve indicating a willingness to review other aspects of the format, future tournaments may see additional enhancements.