VCT EMEA Behind the Scenes gives fans a first look at Stage 2

With Valorant Champions Tour (VCT) EMEA Stage 2 just around the corner, Riot Games is pulling back the curtain to give fans a behind-the-scenes look at the upgraded EMEA studio and what’s ahead for the next chapter of the season.

Riot Games has said that the update is all about transparency, showing how they’re evolving the VCT experience in EMEA, refining the show, and lifting the lid a little further for fans across the region and beyond.

Here’s a breakdown of everything that’s been happening as VCT EMEA Stage 2 returns tomorrow on Wednesday, July 16th.

VCT EMEA upgrades studio

Since the technical woes experienced during Stage 1, Riot Games has upgraded their Pro Player Performance Rooms, which aim to replicate the on-stage match conditions.

These rooms now feature improved peripherals to ensure reliable, high-performance pre-match preparation.

In addition to this, Riot Games is also in the process of improving the Performance Room with new high-spec PCs, set to arrive for the 2026 season.

These changes are designed to create greater parity between practice and live play, giving players the consistency they need to compete at their peak.

Riot Games is also fine-tuning the broadcast audio setup, investing in enhanced audio hardware for both on-site broadcast talent and co-streamers.

The result will be a crisper, more immersive audio experience for fans tuning in from across the globe.

Finally, as part of VCT EMEA’s latest partnership, Herman Miller’s line of Embody gaming chairs will be added to the main stage.

Riot Games introduces the Pro Player Council 

In their efforts to create a space for two-way dialogue with the professional players to evolve the league experience.

Riot Games has launched the VCT EMEA Pro Player Council, a new initiative aimed at giving players a structured platform to voice feedback and shape the future of the league.

Each team was nominated a representative to join the council, ensuring all organisations have a direct line of communication with VCT EMEA leadership.

These meetings are designed to foster open, collaborative conversations and share feedback about the VCT ecosystem.

To support continued dialogue outside of formal meetings, they’ve also established a dedicated chat server exclusively for council members.

This channel will remain open throughout the season, enabling players to share thoughts, raise questions, or carry on discussions in real time.

The goal is for this council to serve as the collective voice of players in the league, helping Riot Games understand where and how they can improve. 

VCT EMEA Stage 2 broadcast upgrades and innovations

For VCT EMEA Stage 2, the broadcast team will roll out several new features designed to elevate the viewing experience at home.

All with the goal of helping fans feel more connected to the game, the players, and the stories unfolding round by round.

Riot Games aims to provide a refreshed storytelling approach during live matches, built around tighter collaboration between casters, observers, and the replay team.

The focus is on shorter and sharper replays that shine a light on specific tactics and clutch plays.

Helping fans better understand the strategies shaping each round.

Meanwhile, as new talent enters the league, the broadcast will introduce debuting players with custom intro graphics and performance stats.

They’ll also include fun facts to highlight their journey and style, to help fans connect with the next generation of pros.

VCT EMEA Stage 2’s soundtrack will infuse the VCT EMEA broadcast with summer-themed music to bring the vibes to every round.

Whether you’re watching in the arena or tuning in from home, expect a sun-soaked soundscape to accompany the action.

VCT EMEA on-site fan engagement

Riot Games also plans to host a range of activities for fans joining the action on-site at the Riot Games Arena in Berlin, Germany.

To mark the 5th Anniversary of Valorant, doors will open early during week one for a special fan experience, the ‘Valorant Anniversary Vernissage’.

This on-site fan art exhibition is said to be a love letter to the VCT EMEA community.

As an opportunity to come together, celebrate the game, and spotlight some of the region’s most creative talent.

Here’s what’s in store:

• Admire standout community art curated for the occasion
• Enjoy free snacks and drinks while fans explore
• Connect with fellow fans and share the moment
• Challenge your favourite creators in 1v1 showdowns using the new Phaseguard skinline at our dedicated station

Whether you’re here for the competitive clash or just soaking up the vibes, there’s something for everyone in week one.