VCT Masters Shanghai to let top seeds select their playoff opponents

The Valorant Masters Shanghai is the first ever Master taking place in China. Riot Games is now going ahead to being the Swiss format. They format was revealed in an announcement video on YouTube by Valorant Esports Strategy Lead, Bill Pan.

VCT Masters Shanghai is all set to be held at the Mercedes-Benz Arena and might also show off the new map rumour which has been going around creating hype among players. The previous Masters event in Madrid saw some record-breaking numbers and Riot seems to be aiming for above and beyond this time too.

Twelve teams will compete in the initial stages after conquering other teams in their respective regions. Four of the top teams will be getting a chance to try the new addition to the Swiss system.

A twist in the Swiss format

Riot Games has decided to let the top seeds at the end of the group stage pick their opponents. “We’re also going to be introducing a new twist to our playoff format, an opportunity for our top seeds to pick their opponents,” Pan said.

“The top four seeds who won will take direct control of their tournament destiny by getting to choose their playoff opponent. This moment will take place right after the Swiss stage and before the start of playoffs,” he further added.

Swiss format has been one of the most popular tournament formats for several esports titles. It allows teams that are performing well to match against each other, while teams with a loss are pooled together, allowing everyone a chance to face victory or defeat.

However, teams do not get to select their playoff opponents. Depending on the team, this could come as both an advantage and a huge disadvantage, and while Riot Believes it might be a good idea, fans are not so sure just yet.