Legacy of the Void has ushered in a new era for StarCraft II esports. Every moment of StarCraft II gameplay is now filled with high-stakes action, and the reformatted 2016 World Championship Series is no different. This year we’re presenting an exciting new way for players to qualify for the WCS Global Playoffs by offering direct seeds into the WCS Global Playoffs.

*Champion images will be updated shortly in the days following the tournament

Seven spots up for grabs

Throughout 2016, there will be seven major events whose champions will be directly seeded into the WCS Global Playoffs, earning them a chance to secure the title of WCS Global Champion later this year.

WCS Circuit Champions
Three of these players will be granted spots from the WCS Circuit Championships, where their mettle will be tested in a marathon-event spanning only a few days. These Circuit Championships are grueling tests of skill, determination, and endurance from which only the most stoic of players can emerge victorious.

GSL and SSl Champions
The remaining four slots will be awarded to those able to triumph in the WCS Korea Leagues; where two slots are awarded via the Global StarCraft League (GSL), and another two via the StarCraft StarLeague (SSL). These leagues span several months per season, and only the most well-prepared and diligent of players will succeed against the determined nature of players who choose to reside in Korea.

Remaining spots
With a total of 16 spots in the Global Playoffs available, the 9 remaining spots will be earned through the WCS point standings. So keep an eye on the standings throughout the year as players battle for the final spots.

As the year progresses, and these seven champions are crowned, we’ll keep you up to date on which players have secured their spot among the elite. Securing the Seven stands as a home of champions and will provide insight into the top performers of 2016.