The Shanghai Major: A Key Event in the Counter-Strike 2 Landscape
The Shanghai Major 2024 stands as a pivotal event in the Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) esports scene. This tournament, with its $1.25 million prize pool, not only showcases top-tier competition but also presents significant opportunities for sportsbooks. As the elimination stage begins, it’s clear why this event is a major milestone in CS2 esports for 2024.
Why Shanghai is an Ideal Host for CS2
Shanghai’s role as host city underscores its importance in the esports world. Unlike other regions with strong local fan bases, such as Brazil, China’s audience is more balanced, supporting various international teams. This neutrality is partly due to the burgeoning nature of the Chinese esports scene. As noted by Niclas Sundell, Sales Director at Abios/Kambi, Shanghai’s passion for esports makes it a fantastic host city. The city boasts a large Counter-Strike fan base, particularly for Western teams like G2 Esports and FURIA. Players such as M0NESY and Fallen have garnered massive followings in China, with fans erupting in excitement during their matches.
With the launch of Counter-Strike 2 in September 2023, China emerged as a significant player in the game’s esports ecosystem. Valve’s decision to host the first Major championship in China, the Perfect World Shanghai Major 2024, further cements this. Sundell suggests that the event has the potential to redefine regional interest in CS2, evolving beyond a mere tournament into a cultural phenomenon.
Key Teams: Giants and Underdogs
The competition is fierce, with traditional powerhouses like G2 Esports, NAVI, and Team Vitality expected to dominate. Sundell highlights players such as M0NESY and jL, who have significantly improved in CS2, keeping other teams on edge. M0NESY, in particular, is recognized as one of the world’s best AWPers, proving formidable on maps like Dust2 and Mirage.
On the other hand, Pavel Malinovskiy, Abios’ Trading Supervisor, points to underdogs like BIG and FURIA, who, despite a challenging year, showed promise in qualifiers. Moreover, American team Wildcard has already caused upsets, pushing out seasoned teams like Virtus.Pro and Fnatic.
Betting Insights: The Rise of Player Props
For sportsbooks, the Shanghai Major represents a chance to innovate in the esports betting market. Both Sundell and Malinovskiy emphasize the growing importance of ‘player props’—bets focused on individual player performance. Modern bettors crave more than traditional market offerings; they seek depth and personalization in their betting experience.
Sundell explains that while markets like 1X2 remain relevant, bet builders—combinations of multiple bets—are becoming central. Markets such as total deaths, bombs planted, and player kills are crucial for creating engaging betting options. Malinovskiy adds that new markets, like total headshots by a player, enhance fan engagement. Real-time data is also essential, with odds providers needing access to the fastest data sources to keep pace with CS2’s dynamics.
Controversial Changes in Major Qualifiers
The Shanghai Major has not been without controversy. In May 2024, it was announced that there would be no open qualifiers for Europe or the Americas, limiting qualification to invited teams. This decision sparked backlash, as open qualifiers have historically allowed for underdog stories to unfold. Sundell mentions that while this raises the competitive standard by ensuring only the best teams qualify, it also removes the inspirational Cinderella stories that fans cherish.
Additionally, Malinovskiy highlights issues during the Regional Major Rankings (RMR), where mid-event rule changes led to confusion, potentially affecting the competition’s integrity.
Preparing for the Future of Esports Betting
As the Shanghai Major progresses, it serves as both a challenge and an opportunity for sportsbooks. By offering innovative markets and leveraging real-time data, there’s significant potential to engage a growing audience. Sundell concludes that esports bettors, accustomed to high standards in traditional sports betting, expect similar experiences in esports. Sportsbooks that invest in tools and markets to meet these expectations will not only succeed in this Major but also in future events.
This Major is a crucial event for sportsbook managers, providing insights into the evolving esports betting landscape. Whether supporting underdogs like Wildcard or favorites like G2, the Shanghai Major is a cornerstone for those looking to stay ahead in the esports betting industry.
