The Fortnite Championship Series, or FNCS, is on the cusp of a thrilling new era, kicking off with its first Major of 2025. Today marks the beginning of the play-ins, setting the stage for an exhilarating year ahead.
FNCS 2025 introduces a fresh format, focusing on divisional cups that lead into major tournaments, each comprising four distinct stages. This streamlined approach ensures a thrilling, competitive experience for all participants.
Credit: Epic Games
3
Credit: Epic Games
Here’s a comprehensive guide to FNCS 2025, covering the prize pot, format, and qualification process.
FNCS 2025 Prize Pool
FNCS 2025 boasts a staggering prize pool of $8 million, a significant increase from the previous year’s $7.5 million. This substantial increase ensures that winning teams stand to gain substantial financial rewards.
FNCS 2025 Format: Trios vs. Duos
This year, the FNCS switches from Duos to Trios, a major format change. In Trios, there are 99 players on the map at the start of each match, organized into 33 teams, each consisting of three players. This format promises a more dynamic and engaging experience.
FNCS 2025 Format: Major Play-Ins and Group Stage
The FNCS Major consists of four stages: Play-In, Group Stage, Last Chance Qualifier, and Major Finals.
In the Play-In Stage, players who have reached Division 1 in their region’s Divisional Cups can form trios to compete for spots in the Group Stage. Over two days, teams play 10 matches each, and the top-performing teams advance.
In the Group Stage, teams are divided into groups. The top teams in these groups, along with the match winners, qualify for the Major Finals.
FNCS 2025 Last Chance Qualifier
Players and teams that don’t qualify for the Major Finals get a final shot through the Last Chance Qualifier. This stage is open to players from Divisions 1, 2, and 3, with top-performing teams entering the Last Chance Lobby. The winners of these matches secure a place in the Major Finals.
The Last Chance Qualifier for Major 1 is scheduled for February 12 and 13, 2025.
FNCS 2025 Major Finals
The Major Finals encompass six matches over two days. The top trio from each region is crowned the Major champion, winning a share of the prize pool and the exclusive Blade of Champions pickaxe, which they can use in-game during the next season.
