In a continuously evolving game like League of Legends, both in-game and out, it’s understandable that the tournament system would incorporate new elements. For example, in recent years, regional tournaments for League of Legends have started applying a double-elimination format in the playoffs, proving to be a wise choice. Didn’t G2 Esports fail to clinch the LEC Spring 2022 title spectacularly if they had stuck to a single-elimination format?
Recently, LEC analyst Caedrel sparked a significant debate by suggesting that the MSI champion should be guaranteed a spot at Worlds in the same year. Following Caedrel’s tweet, prominent figures from G2 Esports and T1 expressed their agreement with this viewpoint. However, many people opposed it, arguing that since MSI and Worlds occur at different times, such an exemption cannot be made.
Historically, no MSI champion has ever missed Worlds in the same year. Essentially, if you are strong enough to win a tournament as prestigious as MSI, securing a ticket to Worlds should be well within reach. However, that does not mean the MSI champion should automatically qualify for Worlds. The requirement to perform well in the summer split provides additional motivation for the MSI champion to strive for a deserving position.
It’s worth noting that this type of exemption has occurred many times in other Esports titles, often leading to negative consequences. In CS:GO, there was a time when being in the top 8 of a Major guaranteed a “Legends” slot, automatically placing the team in the group stage of the next Major. Similarly, in DOTA 2, the TI champion was once assured an invitation to the group stage of the next TI, regardless of roster changes or performance.
The consequence is that many teams lose their competitive drive when their spot at a major tournament is guaranteed, leading to a decline in performance and, consequently, the quality of the tournament itself. Valve has gradually eliminated such “exemption” mechanisms in CS:GO and DOTA 2 recently. Therefore, there is no reason for Riot to “regress” and apply this “exemption” either.