Esports fans had an exciting weekend with the North American qualifiers finishing up and kicking off the third season of Riot’s competitive “League of Legends” play. Online audiences were introduced to fresh new teams and got a window into the upcoming season with some thrilling 5v5 action. Sixteen teams qualified for the tournament last weekend and only five are now gearing up for participation for the 3rd season in February.
There was a lot on the line last weekend. They weren't competing for a first place title, or circuit points. These teams were competing just for the chance to participate in the season 3 weekly games and the chance to make it to the World Championship.
While some teams are out of the running already and are headed back to the drawing board with some ranked games or maybe some unofficial tournaments 5 lucky teams will not only be included in season 3 but are now salaried professional Esports players. Having made into the top 5 slots during the NA qualifying tournament 5 teams now have contracts with Riot Games and sponsors guaranteeing that they will be payed to play their favorite video game for the duration of the competitive season.
The inclusion of salaried positions for Esports players is a huge step for the field and will ensure the highest level of play we've seen so far. Teams can dedicate all their time to practicing and perfecting their game instead of holding down part-time jobs or university studies on the side.
These five teams will be joining long standing NA champions TSM, CLG, and Dignitas in the forthcoming season:
Team FeaR, Good Game University, Curse Gaming, The Brunch Club, and team MARN
You can see teams old and new alike starting February 7th when the Thur. and Fri. weekly games begin. Here’s the outcome of Day two and three’s best of three games from the LCS weekend.
Quarterfinals
FeaR 2 vs. MP 0
DNG 1 vs. GGU 2
Crs 2 vs. Azure 0
MRN 0 vs. TBC 2
Semifinals
MP 1 vs. MRN 2
Azure 1 Vs. DNG 2
MRN 2 vs. DNG 0
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