Smilegate Entertainment, led by CEO Jang In Ah, has unveiled the participating teams and detailed schedule for the CFS (CROSSFIRE STARS) 2024 Grand Final. Widely regarded as the pinnacle of Crossfire esports, the tournament will take place in Hangzhou, China, from December 4 to 15, marking the first time the event is hosted in this historic city.

The CFS Grand Final returns with a significantly expanded roster, featuring 16 teams from regions including China, EUMENA, North America, Brazil, Vietnam, and the Philippines. This is the first time since 2018 that the tournament has hosted this many teams. Notably, new challengers such as Vietnam’s Team Alotus and NEXTTOP, EUMENA’s unKnights, and Brazil’s ANTISOCIAL TEAM will make their debut appearances, adding an exciting layer of unpredictability to the competition.

Returning powerhouses include China’s Chengdu ALL GAMERS, Brazil’s Imperial and Vasco Esports, Vietnam’s Ranking Esports and WOLF EMPIRE, EUMENA’s 3BL Esports and LCK, and North America’s Swamp Gaming (formerly Kungarna). These teams, with their storied histories in CFS, bring a wealth of experience and a competitive edge to the Grand Final.

The tournament also welcomes back familiar faces, such as Q9 E-Sports Club, Evolution Power Gaming featuring legendary player Ma Zhe (known as MZiN), and the Philippines’ SGJ REBORN. Their return after extended absences adds a nostalgic element for longtime fans of the game.

Set over 12 days, the CFS 2024 Grand Final will feature a group stage, knockout stage, playoffs, and a grand finale. The total prize pool stands at a staggering $1.43 million (approximately KRW 20 billion), underscoring the event’s global significance in esports.

The strategic decision to host the event in Hangzhou, one of China's seven ancient capitals and often dubbed “Heaven on Earth,” highlights the tournament's ambition to merge the legacy of competitive gaming with cultural heritage. Last year’s successful offline event in Chengdu marked a triumphant return to in-person competitions, setting the stage for an even grander showcase this year.

New and veteran teams alike will face off in a series of high-stakes matches, each vying for supremacy in the Crossfire esports arena. The expanded lineup introduces fresh talent while preserving the event’s hallmark competitiveness, promising unforgettable moments for fans worldwide.

For more information on participating teams, match schedules, and live updates, visit the official CFS 2024 Grand Final website.

Sayart / Jack Lee, wangjb77@gmail.com