Valorant Challengers South Asia 2025 announced with INR 1.13 Cr prize pool
Riot Games and NODWIN Gaming have unveiled Valorant Challengers South Asia 2025, featuring an INR 1.13 crore prize pool and a revamped format. The winner advances to VCT Ascension Pacific 2025, where they’ll battle for a shot at the VCT Pacific League. The tournament kicks off on March 4, 2025.
South Asia’s Valorant scene just got a massive boost. Riot Games and NODWIN Gaming have officially announced the NODWIN Valorant Challengers South Asia (VCSA) 2025, set to begin on March 4, 2025, and run until July 14, 2025. This year’s tournament features a revamped format, new opportunities for rising teams, and a whopping INR 1.13 crore prize pool.
With a competitive structure designed to keep both players and fans on the edge of their seats, the event will offer grassroots teams a real shot at making it to the VCT Ascension Pacific 2025—the gateway to Riot’s pro Valorant ecosystem.
Three-split format and promotion-relegation shake things up
This year’s tournament introduces a three-split format, ensuring non-stop action throughout the season. The open VCSA Qualifiers have already determined some of the teams making it to the main stage. Squads from India, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, Nepal, Bhutan, Afghanistan, and the Maldives competed fiercely for a chance to qualify. Velocity Gaming (VLT) and Aura are among the first to secure their spots.
A promotion and relegation system has also been introduced after Split 1, meaning high-performing teams from the open circuit can earn their way into the top-tier competition. This change is expected to keep the tournament fresh and unpredictable, with newer teams getting a real shot at proving themselves.
Path to VCT Ascension Pacific 2025
The new points system will play a crucial role in shaping the tournament’s climax. At the end of Split 3, the top four teams based on accumulated points will battle it out in the Ascension Qualifiers. The champion from this stage will earn the honor of representing South Asia at VCT Ascension Pacific 2025, competing against the best teams from other Challenger tournaments in Asia-Pacific.
For South Asian Valorant squads, this is a make-or-break opportunity. The team that triumphs at Ascension 2025 will secure a coveted spot in the VCT Pacific League, Riot Games’ premier Valorant competition in the region.
The organizers are confident that this tournament will elevate Valorant’s competitive scene in South Asia. Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder & Managing Director of NODWIN Gaming, shared his excitement: “NODWIN Valorant Challengers South Asia represents the pinnacle of competitive Valorant esports in our region. With the exciting new three-split structure, promotion and relegation dynamics, and a prize pool of INR 1.13 cr, we aim to deliver an unforgettable season for players and fans alike.”
He also highlighted the importance of sustainability in South Asian esports, adding: “Together with Riot Games, we’re crafting a sustainable and adaptive roadmap for esports in South Asia. This year’s tournament will set the stage for fresh talent to shine and for fan favorites to prove their mettle.”
Sukamal Pegu, Esports Lead, South Asia, Riot Games, emphasized Riot’s commitment to the region’s esports scene. “The NODWIN Valorant Challengers South Asia 2025 reflects Riot’s long-term commitment to nurturing esports in South Asia. By including open qualifiers and a dynamic tournament structure, we are creating a vibrant and inclusive competitive ecosystem.”
Why this tournament matters
The 2024 edition of VCSA was a huge success, pulling in 88 lakh total viewers and reaching over 1 crore people across platforms. The numbers prove that Valorant is growing fast in South Asia, and with an upgraded format this year, the competition is only going to get more intense.
With three high-stakes splits leading up to a shot at Ascension 2025, this year’s Valorant Challengers South Asia could be a game-changer for regional esports. The tournament is not just about prize money—it’s a stepping stone for teams dreaming of making it big on the global stage.
How to watch
The tournament will be officially broadcasted in both Hindi and English on NODWIN Gaming’s YouTube channel. A separate Hindi broadcast will also be available on NODWIN Gaming’s Facebook page.
Valorant fans, gear up! The action begins today!
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