Riot Games has just announced a brand-new tournament for VALORANT players across the EMEA region for a prize pool of €75,000, and it’s looking like a game-changer.

Whirl your way to the top!

Discover what Project Blender is in this video. pic.twitter.com/ChSNQnotG1

— PROJECT BLENDER (@ProjectBlender_) July 31, 2025

Called Project Blender, this open-entry competition is giving players of all levels a chance to compete in a creative, layered tournament that’s shaking up the usual esports format. With phases kicking off in October and running through to December, there’s plenty of time for aspiring teams to get involved.

What’s Different About Project Blender?

Project Blender is built around accessibility. Everyone is welcome, regardless of whether you are a member of a professional squad, a grassroots crew, or even simply a bunch of mates who believe they have what it takes.

The format runs across four phases, starting with a massive 1024-team bracket. If you make it through that, you’ll enter into a series of round robins and elimination rounds, with the best of the best battling it out on LAN during the finals in December.

Image Credit: Project Blender

Even better? There’s a Blender Spotlight, a mixed-gender entry path that offers direct access to Phase 3. It’s a considerate step that allows more diverse teams to perform on a larger platform.

Image Credit: Project Blender

Blender Draft: Pick Carefully, Think Ahead

One of the more strategic changes is the new Blender Draft system. Here’s how it works:

• Draft 1: No restrictions; full agent pool available.
• Draft 2: Agents used in Map 1 are banned.
• Draft 3: Agents used in Map 2 only are banned.

Image Credit: Project Blender

As a result, there are asymmetrical drafts in which each team must be quick to adapt, change tactics, and dive deeply into their agent pools.

Challengers Call and the Bounty System

Riot’s also introduced the Challengers Call, letting qualified teams choose their opponents in later stages. It’s a twist that brings an extra layer of mind games to the competition.

There’s also a bounty system. Teams that manage to take down higher-tier opponents will be rewarded with bonus cash from the €75,000 prize pool. It’s a cool way to support underdog victories and add real stakes to every match.

Image Credit: Project Blender

When, Where, and Who Can Join?

Registrations open in September, and anyone playing from within EMEA, that’s Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa, can enter as long as they meet the connection requirements (under 80ms ping to the Paris or Frankfurt servers).

Image Credit: Project Blender

And it’s not just players getting a look-in. Casters and broadcast talent are also being invited to apply, making Project Blender feel more like a community event than just another tournament.

Project Blender feels like a fresh take on competitive VALORANT — one that’s welcoming, rewarding, and refreshingly different. It’s not just about the pros anymore. If you’ve got the skills and a few mates ready to queue up, this could be your shot.

Project Blender is looking to be one of the most intriguing additions to VALORANT’s competitive scene this year, regardless of your goals—trying something new, pushing yourself, or making a name for yourself.

All information and updates about the tournament can be found on the Project Blender website.

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