ESL changes IEM Cologne 2024 format – no more bo1s

As a long-time fan and avid player of Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, I am thrilled to share my excitement about the recent announcement made by ESL regarding the format change for IEM Cologne 2024. Throughout my gaming journey, I have witnessed countless best-of-one (Bo1) matches that left me on the edge of my seat, but I also know firsthand the frustration of a team’s potential being overshadowed by a single loss in such a high-stakes tournament.

IEM Cologne format

At IEM Cologne in the past, opening matches were played as best of one series. However, starting this year, all matches, including the initial encounters, will be best of three.

At IEM Cologne, the competition kicks off with the Play-in phase, bringing sixteen squads together to face off. In the Upper Bracket Round 1, these teams engage in a double-elimination tournament. The top eight teams emerging victorious progress to the subsequent Group Stage.

In the Group stage, which consists of two groups with eight teams each, matches will be held in a double-elimination style using the GSL format. Each team will engage in best-of-three series. The top three teams from each group will qualify for the playoffs.

In simpler terms, the teams that top their groups during the preliminary round have a significant edge, as they advance to the semifinals. The next two teams will proceed to the Quarterfinals.

As a passionate fan, I’d describe it this way: During the Playoffs, each round leading up to the Grand Finals is a best-of-three series in a single-elimination bracket. However, the Grand Finals themselves are a thrilling best-of-five series, making it an epic conclusion to the entire event.

At IEM Cologne’s Grand Final, which boasts a prize pool of one million dollars, teams have a precious chance to claim the title of Champions of Cologne. Known as the mecca of Counter-Strike, IEM Cologne boasts an immense fanbase and has significantly influenced CS:GO history.

The victors of IEM Cologne 2024 stand to gain more than just monetary rewards. They will receive an invitation to compete in IEM Katowice 2025 and BLAST Premier World Finals. Furthermore, they have a chance to win an impressive $400,000 in prize money.

IEM Cologne Opening matches

The opening matches for IEM Cologne 2024 are as follows: