A new Counter-Strike 2 global tournament will offer players the chance to compete for a massive $1,000,000 (£750,000) prize pool.
The new Global Domination: Invasion esports tournament was announced today by the Ultimate Gaming Championships (UGC) and Global Domination Events (GDE).
It promises to bring together everyone from bedroom gamers to seasoned Counter-Strike esports pros in a battle for cash and glory.
The tournament kicks off next month with online regional tournaments on June 17th, across Europe, the Americas and Asia. The best teams will then head to Oklahoma City’s Paycom Center for the live championship from August 29th to 31st.
“To all the CS2 players and teams who know they have the skills to compete at the highest level, now’s your chance to prove it … and make some serious cash,” said Matt Jackson, CEO and founder of UGC.
“And to all fans of live esports, come to Paycom Center this August to experience all the excitement and unforgettable moments of competitive gaming at its best, along with three days of amazing live entertainment. It’s going to be absolutely epic.”
The finals – staged at the home of NBA side the Oklahoma City Thunder – is set to draw over 10,000 fans.
Top musicians – yet to be named – are expected to take the stage. The musicians are booked by Mammoth Live who produce concerts and other live events.
Registration opens today at www.gdinvasion.com for players and teams of all skill levels, from amateurs to professionals. Professional teams are invited to contact organisers directly at [email protected] to participate.
Counter-Strike 2 tournament format
The Global Domination: Invasion tournament on Counter-Strike 2 begins with online group stages in the Americas, Europe and Asia, where teams will compete for a share of $300,000 (£225,000) in regional prize pools – $100,000 per territory (£75,000).
Top-performing teams will earn all-expenses-paid trips to the live finals in Oklahoma City. The $1m prize pool (£750,000) at the finals will be split between the top eight teams.
There are no requirements to take part and single entrants will be matched to a team. Players will be separated into three tiers – gold, silver and bronze. This will ensure that first-time entrants play within their skill levels.
It costs $20 (£15) per player to register, with a $90 (£68) team rate.
The tournament sign-up process runs from May 14, 2025, to June 15. The online territory tournaments will then take place between June 17 and July 30.
Global Domination: Invasion is spearheaded by the UGC and live event producers Andy Horne and Brian Crouch.
Fans and players can follow updates and track teams on X at @GDInvasion.
