Riot outlines tougher checks for VCT’s open-qualifier era

The story

Riot Games has detailed the security and eligibility framework intended to protect online competition as the VCT opens more routes into its 2027 season.

Open Qualifier players must meet Ascendant-or-higher eligibility and Vanguard compliance requirements. Riot says investigations can combine anti-cheat detection, account reviews, recordings and tournament evidence.

Oversight increases with the stakes

The framework becomes more demanding as teams progress. Open Playoffs require measures including voice monitoring, player-view recordings, match-area cameras and additional anti-cheat checks.

Players can stream their qualifier matches, but their broadcasts must carry a delay of at least two minutes. Riot also distinguishes confirmed requirements from additional security measures still under consideration. The aim is to support a larger field without treating early online rounds and decisive playoff matches as identical operational challenges.