Just hours after their Major qualification hopes looked dead and buried following a devastating elimination at DraculaN Season 6, FaZe have pulled a surprise move. The team have signed up for HLC Belgrade PRO, a $30,000 LAN running April 3 to 5 in Serbia, in what amounts to their final shot at securing enough VRS points for an IEM Cologne Major 2026 invite. The decision directly clashes with FaZe’s existing commitment to PGL Bucharest, raising serious questions about how the organisation intends to handle two overlapping events.

What Happened At DraculaN

FaZe’s DraculaN Season 6 campaign was brief and painful. After opening with a comfortable 2-0 win over aimclub, the team were sent to the lower bracket by Passion UA in a hard-fought 2-1 series. That set up a do-or-die clash against fnatic, and FaZe simply didn’t turn up.

On Anubis, FaZe struggled on their favoured T side despite some early Deagle heroics from David “frozen” Čerňanský. Once the sides switched, fnatic’s IGL Rodion “fEAR” Smyk put on a show, leading his side to a 13-6 win. Overpass was no better, as FaZe couldn’t handle fnatic’s retakes in the first half before being rolled by an up-tempo offence in the second, according to HLTV’s match report.

When asked by HLTV immediately after the elimination, FaZe stated they planned to attend PGL Bucharest, a response that effectively confirmed they would miss the Major. The VRS invite cutoff falls on April 6, and PGL Bucharest runs April 4 to 11, well past the deadline, meaning results from that event would not count towards Major qualification.

The Reversal: Why Belgrade

Then came the surprise. As reported by HLTV, the team list for HLC Belgrade PRO was announced with FaZe’s name on it. The Relog-organised LAN, which was recently relocated from Cyprus to Belgrade due to geopolitical tensions in the region, concludes on April 5, one day before the VRS cutoff. That makes it one of the last European events where FaZe could accumulate the points they desperately need.

The problem is the scheduling overlap. PGL Bucharest begins on April 4, and HLTV has since reported that FaZe remain listed in PGL’s day one matchups, scheduled to face EYEBALLERS at 18:00 on April 4, which falls on day two of the Belgrade LAN. Neither PGL nor FaZe responded to HLTV’s requests for comment before publication. FaZe’s attendance in Belgrade almost certainly means they pull out of PGL Bucharest, a $625,000 event, with forfeits likely required.

Read More: FaZe CS2 Team Gets Beaten by Roblox’s Top Counter Blox Squad

There was also an early question over whether FaZe’s registration would even be accepted. Dust2.us reported that VRS expert MischiefCS had predicted FaZe would miss the Major, and HLTV journalist Striker noted on X that Valve had told Relog they were not allowed to accept teams who signed up past the deadline. FaZe appear to have registered before that cutoff, as they are confirmed in the group draw.

Give a warm welcome to the teams set to attend the #HLCCYPRUSPRO in Belgrade! 👏 Prepare for a $30k #CS2LAN w/ VRS points up in the air & a tough battle sure to follow! 👀#RLG | #CS2 pic.twitter.com/tApmYfIouM

— Relog Media (@RelogMedia) March 31, 2026

HLC Belgrade PRO Group Draw

Relog released the group stage draw, though it required an update after an initial seeding error placed Re’di in FaZe’s Group A.

On paper, FaZe should be comfortable progressing from a group containing Drama and BEE. But given how 2026 has gone for this team, nothing can be taken for granted. FaZe have dropped to 31st in the VRS after their DraculaN exit, falling below teams like B8, Nemiga, Sharks, NRG, NiP, Gentle Mates, Alliance, and K27.

BIG Also Chasing Major Points

FaZe aren’t the only team in Belgrade with Major ambitions. BIG, drawn into Group C alongside Betclic and Luminous, are also in the VRS race for an IEM Cologne invite. The German-majority squad surged up the standings earlier in the year following the addition of Benjamin “blameF” Bremer, but suffered a setback with their group stage exit at Roman Imperium Cup VII. A strong showing in Belgrade would keep their Cologne hopes alive.

A Disastrous 2026 In Context

The desperation behind this move becomes clearer when you look at FaZe’s broader season. As HLTV’s reporting outlined, FaZe have won just four series all year, with one of those being the aimclub victory at DraculaN. They’ve been among the first teams eliminated from every tournament they’ve attended. Their 0-2 outing at BLAST Open Rotterdam, which included a loss to TYLOO, set the tone for a dreadful stretch.

Should FaZe ultimately miss IEM Cologne, it would end a 16-Major attendance streak stretching back to MLG Columbus 2016. That’s particularly stinging given they reached the grand final at the last Major, StarLadder Budapest. As Cybersport.metaratings.ru highlighted, FaZe have reached four Major finals in the last seven Majors, winning one in 2022. The fall from grand finalist to missing the event entirely would be one of the sharpest declines in Counter-Strike history.

What Comes Next

HLC Belgrade PRO kicks off on April 3, and FaZe need to make it count. Community discussion around the VRS suggests that anything short of winning the event may not be enough to push them into Major contention, with their path still dependent on other teams’ results. Whether this gamble, ditching a $625,000 commitment for a $30,000 LAN, pays off or becomes another chapter in a dismal 2026 is something we’ll know very soon.

The post FaZe Enter HLC Belgrade in Last-Ditch Bid for IEM Cologne Major 2026 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

BIG Dominate the Qualifier

Oleksandr “s1mple” Kostyliev’s trip to India has officially been cancelled, not by choice, but by defeat. BIG swept BC.Game 2–0 in the European qualifiers for Skyesports Chennai 2025, sending the German squad to the $49,000 LAN while s1mple and Denis “electroNic” Sharipov’s new lineup were sent packing.

Overpass ended 13–4, Mirage finished 13–5, and the scoreboard told the story. Gleb “gr1ks” Gazin dropped 38 kills in total, topping the server with a 1.66 HLTV rating and outshining every BC.Game player by a mile.

BIG hand BCGame their first defeat since the arrival of electroNic 🤕 pic.twitter.com/RSWa7cPu0b

— HLTV.org (@HLTVorg) October 22, 2025

Meanwhile, s1mple and electroNic struggled to make any impact. The duo finished with negative K/Ds as their team fell apart under pressure, closing out their short-lived qualifier run in brutal fashion.

Image via HLTV.org

A New Chapter for BIG

This result marks a much-needed turnaround for BIG, who had fallen as low as 48th in the world rankings after parting ways with Karim “Krimbo” Moussa and promoting academy graduate Lukas “FreeZe” Hegmann to team captain.

The shake-up seems to be paying off. BIG now join Mousquetaires, True Thunder, Nemesis SEA, and two Indian qualifiers at Skyesports Chennai, the event set to take place in November.

It’s also the team’s first online qualifier win in nearly five years, and their most convincing performance since 2020.

Did BC.Game “Throw” To Avoid India?

After the loss, fans flooded HLTV threads with theories that BC.Game intentionally lost to dodge the trip to India. “Mission not to go to India completed,” one user joked, while another pointed out that “s1mple makes more in a month than the whole event’s prize pool.”

Others blamed poor form and preparation, noting that the roster barely scraped through earlier rounds and nearly dropped a Bo3 to Kazakh side NOVAQ after trailing 2–10.

Still, the speculation didn’t stop, with fans poking fun at s1mple’s alleged “vacation mindset.”

BIG’s Post-Match Trolling

Adding insult to injury, BIG took to X (formerly Twitter) to troll s1mple, referencing his recent obsession with Dota 2 instead of CS2 practice. The post quickly went viral, turning a routine qualifier win into a full-blown community moment.

s1mple rn pic.twitter.com/GW7oOZtLxH

— BIG (@BIGCLANgg) October 22, 2025

For BIG, it’s a refreshing change of pace. After years of mid-tier finishes, they’re finally the ones dishing out the jokes instead of receiving them.

Skyesports’ Controversial Return

Skyesports Chennai Esports Global Championship 2025 (CEGC) is a smaller replacement for the cancelled Skyesports Masters, backed by the Tamil Nadu government to revive India’s esports scene.

However, Skyesports has faced heavy criticism over multiple event cancellations, including BetBoom’s withdrawal from the 2024 Championship and the suspension of their entire 2026 tier-one calendar.

With just six participating teams and a modest prize pool, many pros view the Chennai event as low-stakes, but for BIG, it’s an opportunity to regain footing and rack up valuable VRS points.

What’s Next

BIG will face Mousquetaires in the European qualifier grand final before flying to Chennai for the LAN.

Meanwhile, BC.Game and its superstar duo now face a difficult question: can s1mple’s new project actually work, or will his return to Counter-Strike end up being another short-lived experiment?

The post s1mple’s Not Going to India – BIG Crush BC.Game to Take the Spot Instead appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

The Counter-Strike 2 scene is heating up again, and this time, the spotlight shifts to India. Skyesports has confirmed that Valve has reviewed and approved their compliance submission for the Chennai Esports Global Championship (CEGC) 2025, locking in the event’s schedule and regional qualifiers. With a $50,000 prize pool on the line, some of the biggest names in European Counter-Strike are preparing to compete for a spot in the Chennai LAN.

And yes, there’s a real chance that Oleksandr “s1mple” Kostyliev could make his long-awaited debut on Indian soil.

Europe Qualifiers: The Battle for Chennai

The Europe Qualifiers for the CEGC 2025 will run from October 21–23, bringing together some of the top-tier CS2 squads across the region. Teams in the mix include BC.Game, FUT Esports, Eternal Fire, BIG, GENONE, QUAZAR, X44, AAB Esports, Mousquetaires, Premedsant, AM Gaming, NOVAQ, Washington, Jumbo, ForevRegless, and Illwill.

The top two teams will earn their ticket to the Chennai LAN finals, taking place from November 7–9 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium in Tamil Nadu, India.

Europe, assemble! 🌍🔥

The best CS2 teams from across the continent are heading to Chennai for the Chennai Esports Global Championship 2025! 🇮🇳

Europe Qualifiers: October 21–23
CS2 LAN Finals: November 7–9
📍 Jawaharlal Nehru Indoor Stadium, Chennai

Witness Europe’s finest… pic.twitter.com/we3hwwkSRo

— Skyesports (@skyesportsintl) October 17, 2025

Skyesports’ announcement confirmed that Valve has allowed some flexibility around registration timelines but otherwise greenlit the original event schedule.

“We appreciate everyone’s understanding and continued support,” said the tournament organisers, noting that the show will go on exactly as planned.

$50,000 Prize Pool and Global Competition

The Chennai Esports Global Championship will feature the best from Europe, SEA, and India, each sending their top two teams to the finals. The prize pool breakdown includes:

• 🥇 $30,000 for first place
• 🥈 $15,000 for second
• 🥉 $4,000 for third
• ⭐ $1,000 MVP award

With international representation and a hefty payout, this event aims to elevate India’s place in the global esports spotlight.

S1mple’s Indian Debut? Fans Are Hyped

The internet has been buzzing ever since BC.Game’s inclusion in the European qualifiers was confirmed. Fans couldn’t contain their excitement at the thought of s1mple, one of Counter-Strike’s greatest players, potentially competing in India for the first time.

“S1mple coming to India wasn’t on my 2025 bingo list,” one fan posted.
“Where can I buy tickets for this?” another asked on X.

BC.Game recently lifted their first CS2 trophy at the ESL Challenger League Season 50 Cup 2, ending s1mple’s three-year title drought. The victory marked a huge moment for the Ukrainian star’s comeback, you can read more about that in S1mple Finally Back on Top as BC.Game Lift First CS2 Trophy.

If BC.Game manage to finish in the top two during the EU qualifiers, fans can expect to see s1mple and his team fly to Chennai this November.

A Global Stage in Chennai

The CEGC 2025 marks one of the biggest Counter-Strike events ever held in India, bringing together global talent and passionate local fans. The mix of international squads and homegrown teams promises a truly electric atmosphere.

“Global teams, Indian stage, one championship,” Skyesports teased on social media — and they couldn’t have said it better.

With teams like BIG, Eternal Fire, and BC.Game all vying for their spot, the stage is set for a fierce qualifier. The question now is simple: can s1mple and BC.Game carry their hot form from Europe to the heart of Chennai?

The post S1mple Could Be Headed to India for the Chennai Esports Global Championship 2025 appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Berlin International Gaming (BIG) has unveiled a fresh partnership with German gaming drink brand LevlUp, marking another major addition to its growing list of sponsors. The deal, facilitated by the BrightUp agency, sees LevlUp become the Official Performance Drink Partner of BIG across several key esports titles, including Counter-Strike 2, Trackmania, and Fortnite.

Powering Performance On and Off the Stage

Under the new partnership, LevlUp will provide its performance-focused beverages to BIG’s Bootcamp and Esport Factory in Berlin, ensuring players stay refreshed and energised during intense training sessions. The collaboration will also bring LevlUp branding to BIG’s player jerseys, prominently displayed on the shoulder area, as well as across social media platforms and digital content.

In addition to visibility, the partnership focuses heavily on community engagement. Fans can look forward to interactive events, social media activations, and even the development of exclusive drink flavours, co-created by LevlUp and BIG’s players.

BIG CEO Daniel Finkler expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration, calling LevlUp a “perfect fit” for the organisation.

“LevlUp is a perfect fit for BIG, sharing our focus on performance and community,” Finkler said. “It’s a strong statement to see one of Europe’s leading gaming drink brands invest so clearly in German esports. Together, we’ll create unique formats that truly add value for our fans.”

LevlUp Expands Its Esports Footprint

While this is LevlUp’s first official partnership with an esports organisation, the brand is no stranger to the gaming industry. Founded in 2018, LevlUp has previously collaborated with Twitch and gaming chair manufacturer noblechairs. The company was acquired by Glanbia Nutritionals in 2021, and has since become one of Europe’s most recognised gaming-focused beverage brands.

This partnership with BIG signals a stronger push into the esports scene, with LevlUp looking to connect directly with competitive gaming communities.

BIG’s Growing Brand Portfolio

For BIG, 2025 has been a year of consolidation and expansion on the partnership front. The organisation recently extended its long-running collaboration with SkinBaron, a Counter-Strike skin marketplace, marking six years of working together. BIG has also teamed up with GreenMedical and Four 20 Pharma to support educational initiatives around doctor-supervised medicinal cannabis use.

The team’s partner lineup now features an impressive range of brands, including Acer Predator, Backforce, Philips OneBlade, Logitech G, Pizza Hut, UNLTD, BWI, and more.

Despite a challenging period in competition, currently ranked 38th in Valve’s Regional Standings for October, BIG continues to build its presence both on and off the stage, reinforcing its position as one of Germany’s most influential esports organisations.

A Toast to What’s Next

With LevlUp joining the fold, BIG is aiming to energise not only its players but also its growing community of fans. Through collaborative drink creations, digital engagement, and content initiatives, the partnership is set to deliver a blend of performance, creativity, and fan-focused experiences that align perfectly with BIG’s vision for the future.

The post BIG Joins Forces with LevlUp as New Performance Drink Partner appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

The Mongolian Esports Association (MESA) is facing heavy criticism after multiple teams and broadcast talent came forward claiming the tournament organiser owes more than $200,000 USD in unpaid prize money and salaries.

The allegations were first reported by Pley.gg, who confirmed with sources including Australian caster Jordan “Elfishguy” Mays, as well as organisations HEROIC, BIG, and Chinggis Warriors. According to their reports, MESA’s financial troubles span several events, including the flagship MESA Nomadic Masters Spring 2025 and the Asian Masters qualifier for PGL Bucharest.

Broadcasters left waiting months

Several casters and commentators say they are still waiting on thousands of dollars for work completed months ago. One anonymous talent told Pley.gg they are owed several thousand dollars from the Nomadic Masters Spring 2025, while Mays revealed he is still waiting on payment from the Asian Masters qualifier held in March.

Mays also noted that this isn’t the first time payments have been late. He claims he previously waited more than six months for compensation after working the Nomadic Masters Spring 2024.

Unreal behaviour from a TO that is ghosting their unpaid talent 🙂 https://t.co/Our6QRLij2

— Jordan Mays (@Elfishguy) August 14, 2025

Teams unpaid despite looming deadline

It isn’t just talent raising concerns. Teams including HEROIC, BIG, and Chinggis Warriors have yet to see their share of the $250,000 USD prize pool from Nomadic Masters Spring 2025.

MESA’s own rulebook says teams “should ideally” be paid 90 days after an event, with a maximum of 180 days allowed. For this event, that deadline is October 31st, meaning MESA is still technically within its own timeframe. Even so, teams are questioning why the prize pool wasn’t secured before the tournament began.

The situation adds to an already rocky track record for MESA. In August, Valve stripped Nomadic Masters Fall 2025 of its Valve Regional Standings points after MESA attempted to charge registration fees, breaching official tournament operation requirements. Read our full report on MESA Nomadic Masters losing Valve ranking here.

MESA blames betting ban for financial disruption

Responding to Pley.gg, MESA Managing Director Ganbaatar Erdene defended the delays, claiming the organisation’s 90–180 day payout structure is in line with other tournament organisers such as ESL.

Erdene also pointed to the Mongolian government’s ban on betting websites, enacted in July and extended in August, as a reason behind disrupted sponsorships and slowed payments.

He further stated that all Nomadic Masters Spring 2025 talent had been paid and that all other events had been settled. However, this directly contradicts the claims from Mays, who says he is still waiting for payment from multiple tournaments.

A pattern of issues in esports TOs

The situation with MESA comes only weeks after the collapse of Dubai-based YaLLa Esports, which shut down leaving behind over $1 million in unpaid invoices and salaries. You can read more about YaLLa’s shutdown and impact on CS2 esports here.

With Mongolian CS2 in the global spotlight thanks to The MongolZ winning the Esports World Cup earlier this year, MESA’s struggles could not come at a worse time. The organiser is also set to host ZOWIE eXTREMESLAND 2025 in Ulaanbaatar from 23 September, putting further pressure on them to resolve their financial obligations.

As teams and talent wait for answers, the credibility of Mongolian esports on the international stage hangs in the balance.

The post Mongolian TO MESA Accused of Owing $200,000 in Unpaid Prize Money and Talent Fees appeared first on Shane the Gamer.

Brazil’s Independent Games (BIG) Festival, the largest indie gaming expo in Latin America, announced today that a cluster of prominent international mobile gaming companies will be attending its 7th edition, making the gaming application business front and center at this year’s event.

As part of Brazil Games’ efforts to further consolidate and promote the Brazilian Game industry internationally, local attendees will be treated to panels and talks whose participants will be composed of companies that have contributed to the creation of the most recent trends in the mobile video game publishing business.

Representatives from major publishing houses with proven track record will present their latest case studies to explain their involvement with helping mobile game developers to reach profitability by developing customized marketing and monetization campaign strategies. Part of the focus will aim at explaining how to develop and deploy the necessary tools in order to reach the KPIs threshold that have become standards in the industry in terms of user acquisition, engagement, valuation and retention. 

The Brazilian Independent Games Festival is honored to welcome this year the mobile video game companies listed below which will host the debates and discussions over the fundamentals on how to become successful in the mobile video game publishing business. 

BIG Festival 2019 Edition will be taking place in Sao Paulo, Brazil from June 27 to June 30. The event covers competition between national and international games with cash prizes, exhibition of the selected games, awards ceremony, lectures and business rounds. To find out more on the BIG Festival go HERE.

The post GLOBAL MOBILE GAMING INDUSTRY TO CONVERGE IN BRAZIL appeared first on Shane the Gamer.