Karmine Corp Wins VCT Game Changers EMEA Stage 2, Eyes 2025 Championship Sweep

Image: Karmine Corp

Karmine Corp has secured their second consecutive title in the 2025 VCT Game Changers EMEA by defeating GIANTX GC in a gripping Stage 2 Grand Final.

Although they clinched the Stage 1 title earlier in March—also against GIANTX GC—this latest win didn’t come as easily. Their journey through Stage 2 was far from dominant in the early phase. The French squad finished the group stage with a 5-4 record, not exactly the type of performance that screams title favorites. But once the playoffs began, Karmine Corp looked like a completely transformed team.

Their playoff run kicked off with a gritty 2-1 victory over Twisted Orchid, setting the tone for what was to come. That spark followed up with dominant 2-0 wins against G2 Gozen and then GIANTX GC in the upper bracket, punching their ticket to the Grand Final.

The rematch against GIANTX GC proved to be a true test of nerves and skill. The five-map series swung back and forth, but the turning point came on Lotus, where Karmine Corp delivered a crushing 13-1 win. That momentum carried through to the final map on Sunset, where they closed out the series 13-8.

Along with the championship trophy, the team walked away with a €15,000 prize and a confirmed spot in Stage 3.

As per the VCT EMEA standings, this back-to-back victory places Karmine Corp at the top with 150 circuit points, effectively locking in their slot for the 2025 Game Changers Championship.

Looking ahead, all focus now shifts to Stage 3, which kicks off on September 30 and runs until November 2. The top ten teams from the region will battle it out through weeks of group-stage matches, with only six advancing to the playoffs. The Grand Final will be hosted at the ESA Esports Arena in Istanbul, where another €15,000 prize and a direct ticket to the Championship are up for grabs.