The End of an Era: VCT Challengers Oceania Discontinued
On December 3, 2025, Riot Games made a significant announcement that sent ripples through the VALORANT esports community in Oceania. The company decided to discontinue the VCT Challengers Oceania league, the official tier-two circuit that had been a crucial pathway for aspiring VALORANT players in the region. The decision was not taken lightly, as it was the result of a thorough evaluation of the league’s performance and the growing operational demands that had begun to outstrip both viewership and player participation. Despite the setback, Riot Games assured that this move would not entirely eliminate Oceania’s chances in the global VALORANT esports scene.
A Shift to Premier: New Pathways for Aspiring Pros
In place of the VCT Challengers Oceania, Riot Games has introduced an alternative path for players to ascend to the professional level. The new pathway involves the Premier game mode, which is designed to be a more accessible and competitive environment for aspiring pros. According to Riot’s official statement, players in Oceania can now join the VCT ecosystem through Premier. The best team to emerge from this mode will have the opportunity to participate in a Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ), which will determine one of the four teams that will advance to the VCT Pacific Stage 2 Playoffs. This new system aims to create a more dynamic and merit-based environment, ensuring that only the most skilled and dedicated teams have a chance to compete on the global stage.
Grassroots Support and Community Engagement
Riot Games has also committed to supporting grassroots and community tournaments in Oceania, recognizing the vital role they play in nurturing talent and fostering a sense of community. These tournaments have been thriving in the region, and Riot’s backing will help ensure their continued growth and success. By investing in these local competitions, Riot aims to provide more players with the chance to showcase their skills and potentially catch the attention of professional teams. This multi-faceted approach not only strengthens the competitive ecosystem but also ensures that the VALORANT community in Oceania remains vibrant and engaged.
Continuity in VCT Game Changers Oceania
One aspect of the Oceania VALORANT scene that remains unchanged is the VCT Game Changers Oceania league. This league, which focuses on promoting and supporting female and non-binary players, will continue to run as it has in previous years. The continued support for VCT Game Changers underscores Riot’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in esports. By maintaining this league, Riot ensures that female and non-binary players have a platform to develop their skills and compete at a high level, contributing to the overall growth and inclusivity of the VALORANT esports community.
How to Participate: A New Roadmap for Oceanian Players
For pro players in Oceania (Immortal Three or higher), the path to professional status through the new system involves several key steps. First, they need to participate in Premier and stand out as a “top-performing team.” The best teams will be eligible to participate in a regional qualifier. The winner of this regional qualifier will then advance to Pacific’s Last Chance Qualifier (LCQ). The LCQ will feature the top team from South Asia, the top team from Oceania, and the 2nd and 3rd seeds from Southeast Asia. The winner of the LCQ will earn the final VCT Pacific spot, giving them a chance to compete in the prestigious VALORANT Champions tournament. This new structure ensures that only the most deserving teams have the opportunity to represent Oceania on the global stage.
Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Oceania’s VALORANT Scene
While the discontinuation of the VCT Challengers Oceania league marks the end of an era, it also opens up new opportunities for the region’s players and fans. The shift to Premier and the continued support for grassroots and community tournaments demonstrate Riot Games’ commitment to fostering a robust and inclusive VALORANT esports ecosystem in Oceania. By providing alternative pathways and maintaining key initiatives like VCT Game Changers, Riot is laying the groundwork for a bright future for the region’s VALORANT community. As players and teams adapt to the new system, the spirit of competition and pursuit of excellence will continue to drive the Oceania VALORANT scene forward.
