Apex Legends is a free-to-play battle royale-hero shooter developed by Respawn Entertainment and published by Electronic Arts. Released in 2019, it quickly became one of the most exciting games in the esports scene. Renowned for its dynamic gameplay, unique blend of hero abilities, and fast-paced action, Apex Legends has captivated millions worldwide. With a peak viewership of over 700,000 during major Apex Legends Esports tournaments like the Crazy Raccoon Cup, the game has become a staple in competitive gaming.

For newcomers or fans looking to explore the competitive side, an Apex Legends esports guide is a perfect resource to understand the tournaments, top teams, and winning strategies. Its developer, Respawn, continues to support the game with regular updates and massive prize pools, further boosting its appeal in esports. This combination of skill, strategy, and excitement makes Apex Legends one of the most thrilling esports titles today. It supports cross-platform play, making it easy for friends to team up, whether they’re on PC, Xbox, PlayStation, or even Nintendo Switch.

Apex Legends Esports Guide: Summary and Overview

Apex Legends made a significant impact on the gaming world shortly after its release in 2019. From the beginning, Respawn Entertainment and Electronic Arts saw the potential for the game to become a competitive esport. As early as March 2019, just a month after launch, professional teams began assembling rosters for Apex Legends competitions. The game received its first esports showcase during ESPN’s EXP Pro-Am Apex Legends Exhibition in July 2019, alongside the prestigious ESPY Awards.

Later in 2019, Respawn announced the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS), a competitive circuit with online and live events. The series featured a $3 million prize pool and a qualification system through online tournaments, regional Challenger events, and global Premier events. 

The success of ALGS established Apex as a force in the esports world, and it has only grown since, with record-breaking viewership and ever-increasing prize pools. Apex Legends continues to evolve, solidifying its place in the competitive gaming scene.

Major Tournaments	Region	Current Champion	Prize Pool	Tournament Dates or Date Estimates
ALGS:Championship	Global	TBD	$2,000,000	Jan 28 – Feb 2, 2025
ALGS: Split 1 Playoffs	Global	Spacestation Gaming	$1,000,000	May 2 – 5, 2024
ALGS: Split 2 Playoffs	Global	REJECT WINNITY KR	$1,000,000	Aug 29 – Sep 1, 2024
Esports World Cup	Global	Alliance	$2,000,000	Aug 1 – 4, 2024

Major Apex Legends Esports Tournaments

Apex Legends esports is globally structured through the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS). This system features numerous regional leagues and circuits, allowing teams from different parts of the world to compete for a spot in major international tournaments, including the ALGS Championship. 

The Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) has consistently boasted large prize pools, making it one of the most lucrative esports competitions. Since its inception, the ALGS has attracted top-tier teams and players from all over the world. Each season of the ALGS features multiple events, from regional leagues to global championships, offering significant prize money.

In the 2024 season, the ALGS prize pool totals over $5 million, with a $2 million prize for the ALGS Championship alone. Other major tournaments, like the ALGS Split Playoffs, typically offer $1,000,000 in prize money, while smaller regional events have their own prize allocations depending on the region’s size and competitiveness. These high stakes draw in the best talent and contribute to the game’s rapidly growing esports scene.

Below is an overview of how Apex Legends is structured regionally:

North America

The North American region is one of the most competitive in Apex Legends esports, often producing some of the best teams and players in the scene. Major tournaments like the ALGS Split Playoffs and Championship see intense competition from teams such as TSM, DarkZero Esports, and FaZe Clan. The region regularly sends 10 to 12 teams to the ALGS Playoffs and Championships, where they vie for a share of multi-million-dollar prize pools. North American teams are known for their aggressive playstyles and are consistently top contenders in global events.

EMEA (Europe, Middle East, and Africa)

EMEA is another powerhouse in the Apex Legends esports scene, featuring top teams like Alliance and NAVI. This region offers a highly competitive environment, with teams qualifying for global events through their Pro League performances. EMEA teams are known for their tactical and calculated playstyles, often excelling in high-pressure situations. Similar to North America, 8 to 12 teams from EMEA typically qualify for the ALGS Playoffs, making it one of the strongest regions in the esports ecosystem.

APAC South

The APAC South region, which includes South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Oceania, brings unique flair to the Apex Legends competitive scene. Teams from this region, like Moist Esports, often stand out for their unconventional strategies and adaptability in fast-paced matches. APAC South teams compete for slots in the ALGS Playoffs, with 6 to 8 teams usually qualifying, depending on their performance. The region continues to grow as esports infrastructures develop, leading to stronger competition year by year.

APAC North

APAC North includes powerhouse countries such as Japan and Korea. This region is known for its highly organized and disciplined teams like Crazy Raccoon, which dominate their local circuits and consistently qualify for global events. APAC North teams often bring new strategies and innovation to the table, making them exciting to watch in international competitions. Typically, 8 teams from this region qualify for the ALGS Playoffs, contributing to the diversity and competitiveness of the Apex Legends global esports stage.

South America

South America, though a smaller region, has shown significant growth in the Apex Legends esports scene. The region’s Pro League was dissolved, but it continues to feature Challenger Circuit tournaments and Regional Finals, where the top 2 teams qualify for the ALGS Playoffs. South America faces its own set of challenges, but teams from this region, such as Team Singularity, have begun to make a mark in the global scene, competing with top teams from around the world.

Minor Regions (China and South America South)

China and South America South have smaller competitive scenes but are critical in Apex Legends’ global structure. China, for example, is allocated direct invitations for two teams to the ALGS Split Playoffs, with the possibility of additional slots based on their performance. South America South, similar to South America, focuses on the Challenger Circuit tournaments and regional competitions, with qualifying teams earning spots in the global Playoffs. 

Regional Slot Allocations

To ensure global representation, the ALGS allocates slots for each region to send teams to the international Playoffs and Championships. Here’s a breakdown of the slot allocation for the ALGS Split Playoffs:

• North America (NA): 12 teams for Split 1, at least 10 teams for Split 2.
• EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa): 8 teams for Split 1, at least 6 teams for Split 2.
• APAC North (Asia-Pacific North): 8 teams for Split 1, at least 6 teams for Split 2.
• APAC South (Asia-Pacific South): 8 teams for Split 1, at least 6 teams for Split 2.
• South America: Top 2 teams qualify for Playoffs each Split, with potential additional slots based on performance.
• China: 2 teams are directly invited to the Split 1 Playoffs, with the chance for 2 additional slots for Split 2 based on performance. Chinese teams are also eligible for the Championship if they perform well across the season.

Each region’s performance in previous splits can impact their slot allocations for subsequent splits, especially for smaller regions like China and South America, where teams must prove their competitiveness on the global stage.

Partnered Teams

In 2023, EA and Respawn introduced the Partnered Teams Program, where 12 esports organizations were selected to become official ALGS partners. These teams receive special benefits, including a financial stipend to help with stability and operations, content and media opportunities, and the ability to host licensed tournaments. They also feature prominently at LAN events, with team booths and other activations to engage fans.

The 12 partnered teams for the ALGS are:

1. Alliance
2. DarkZero Esports
3. Disguised
4. FaZe Clan
5. Fnatic
6. FURIA Esports
7. Luminosity Gaming
8. Moist Esports
9. OpTic Gaming
10. RIDDLE
11. TSM
12. XSET

These teams are among the most well-known in the esports scene and consistently perform at the highest levels in both regional and international tournaments. Partnered teams also play a key role in expanding the reach of Apex Legends esports, promoting the game across various media platforms and helping to solidify its presence in the broader esports industry.

Third-Party tournaments:

In addition to the official Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS), several third-party tournaments are hosted by independent organizations, providing more opportunities for teams to compete at various levels. These tournaments offer significant prize pools, exposure, and competition, adding to the game’s thriving esports ecosystem. Here’s an overview of some of the most notable third-party events, categorized into different tiers based on their scale and prize pools.

Tier 1

• Esports World Cup

The Esports World Cup (EWC) is one of the largest third-party tournaments for Apex Legends. With teams from across the globe, this event showcases high-level play and attracts top-tier esports organizations. The EWC boasts substantial prize pools, and in 2023, Alliance won the championship, taking home $600,000. The tournament often features an intense, extended format, including a grand finals series that challenges even the most experienced teams.

Tier 2

• Twitch Rivals

Twitch Rivals is a series of online tournaments hosted on the Twitch platform. These events often feature a mix of professional players, streamers, and influencers. While Twitch Rivals tournaments are generally smaller than ALGS events, they offer good prize pools and are a great way for upcoming players to showcase their skills. These tournaments also provide entertainment for casual viewers, with popular content creators participating.

• BLGS (Battle of Legends Global Series)

BLGS is another significant tier-2 tournament, which is slightly smaller than the EWC but still attracts a highly competitive pool of players. BLGS is known for its global reach and consistent competition, allowing lesser-known teams to compete on an international stage. While not as large as ALGS or EWC, BLGS still offers a solid prize pool and exposure for rising talent.

• Red Bull Legends Inn

Red Bull Legends Inn is a sponsored tournament that often features invite-only teams and top-tier talent from around the world. As a Red Bull event, it includes immersive production and high-quality broadcasts, making it a fan favorite. The tournament usually showcases some of the best Apex Legends action with a mix of pros and popular personalities.

• TAIMAN+ Offline Event

The TAIMAN+ Offline Event is a smaller, regional tournament held in Asia. It is an in-person, offline competition that brings together local teams to compete in a structured, professional environment. Despite being on a smaller scale, the tournament often features impressive production quality and offers a solid platform for teams from the APAC region to demonstrate their abilities.

Tier 3

• Apex Festival Spin
• TELUS Esports 
•  Apex Legends Korea Championship
•  KEIO CUP 
•  GROW Cup 
•  SteelSeries Invitational: North America
• Apex Festival
• Code Red Code Red – Freedom: Champions

Amateur and Semi-Pro Scenes: 

For players dreaming of turning their passion for Apex Legends into a professional career, there’s a clear path to pro that allows rising talent to climb the ranks from amateur competitions to the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS). This system offers opportunities for new players to showcase their skills and compete against seasoned professionals. Here’s an overview of how players can make their way through the competitive scene:

1. Start in the Challenger Circuit

The journey for most aspiring pros begins in the Challenger Circuit, a series of open tournaments that anyone can sign up for. These competitions are designed to give amateur players the chance to test their skills against similarly ranked squads. The Challenger Circuit takes place online, with multiple events happening throughout each season. This entry-level competition is essential for players to build experience, gain exposure, and start making a name for themselves in the esports scene.

Key points about the Challenger Circuit:

• Open to all players.
• Multiple events throughout the season.
• Top teams can earn qualification to the Pro League Qualifier or the Last Chance Qualifier.

2. Qualify for the Pro League

Teams that perform well in the Challenger Circuit have the opportunity to qualify for the Pro League, which is a significant step toward entering the professional scene. The Pro League is where the competition intensifies, as it features both semi-pro teams and established esports organizations. Players who qualify through the Pro League gain invaluable experience, competing against tougher opponents while sharpening their skills and strategies.

Key points about the Pro League:

• Teams earn qualification through strong performance in the Challenger Circuit.
• 40 teams compete in each region’s Pro League.
• The Pro League serves as a bridge to international competitions like the ALGS Playoffs.

3. Compete in the Last Chance Qualifiers (LCQ)

For teams that don’t automatically qualify for major tournaments through the Pro League, the Last Chance Qualifiers (LCQ) provide one final opportunity to secure a spot in the ALGS Playoffs or Championship. The LCQ is fiercely competitive, as it often attracts both semi-pro and pro teams who narrowly missed out on earlier qualification. Winning in the LCQ can catapult a team to the global stage, offering them a chance to prove themselves against the best in the world.

Key points about the LCQ:

• A final opportunity to qualify for major tournaments.
• Open to both Pro League teams and top Challenger Circuit teams.
• High stakes, with limited slots available for global events.

4. Make It to the ALGS Playoffs and Championship

The ultimate goal for semi-pro and amateur teams is to reach the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) Playoffs and Championship. The teams that perform well in their regional leagues and qualifiers can advance to these international events, where the competition is at its fiercest. Here, teams compete for multi-million-dollar prize pools, with the chance to be crowned champions of the Apex Legends esports scene.

Key points about the ALGS Playoffs and Championship:

• The highest level of competition in Apex Legends.
• Teams from all regions compete for massive prize pools.
• Offers global recognition and the opportunity to establish a long-term career in esports.

Tips for New Players Looking to Go Pro

• Join Regular Tournaments – Participate in as many open tournaments as possible. The more you compete, the more experience you’ll gain. Platforms like Battlefy often host online tournaments for Apex Legends.
• Team Up with Like-Minded Players – Success in Apex Legends often comes down to teamwork. Form a team with players who share your competitive goals and dedicate time to practicing together.
• Study the Meta – The top teams are always up-to-date on the latest strategies, legends, and weapon choices. Staying ahead of the meta is crucial for any competitive player.
• Watch Pro Streams – Learn from the best by watching professional players on platforms like Twitch and YouTube. Pay attention to their decision-making, positioning, and communication during matches.
• Stay Consistent – The path to pro is a long journey that requires perseverance. Keep competing, practicing, and improving your skills, even if you don’t see immediate success.

Best Apex Legends Esports Teams

Apex Legends features some of the most talented teams in the esports world, each bringing unique strategies, teamwork, and high-level play to global tournaments. Below are some of the best Apex Legends esports teams in the scene, known for their exceptional performances in both regional and international competitions.

Alliance

Alliance is one of the top esports teams in Europe, known for their consistency and tactical approach. This Apex legends Esports team rose to fame with their victory at the Esports World Cup: Apex Legends in 2024, where they claimed the title after one of the longest grand finals in Apex Legends history. The team’s careful planning and impressive communication have helped them establish themselves as a dominant force in the EMEA region.

Crazy Raccoon

Crazy Raccoon is a powerhouse from Japan, leading the APAC North region with their creative strategies and aggressive gameplay. Their ability to adapt to the fast-paced nature of the game has made them a fan-favorite and a strong contender in international competitions. Crazy Raccoon often stands out with their coordinated team fights, always keeping their opponents on the back foot.

Team Falcons

Team Falcons, based in the Middle East, made a name for themselves by consistently competing at a high level in the ALGS. Known for their aggressive yet calculated playstyle, Team Falcons impressed the world with their runner-up finish in the Esports World Cup, showcasing their skill and determination. They are one of the best teams from the Middle Eastern scene and a team to watch in future competitions.

TSM

TSM is a legendary team from North America, and they are widely considered one of the best Apex Legends teams in the world. With multiple ALGS titles and consistently top-tier performances, TSM’s mastery of positioning, timing, and team synergy sets them apart. Players like ImperialHal have become icons in the community, representing the pinnacle of competitive play in Apex Legends.

Spacestation Gaming

Spacestation Gaming is another North American team known for their ability to perform under pressure. Fans love the them for their adaptability and resilience in tournaments, where they have regularly faced off against the best teams in the world. Their tactical approach and strong individual performances make them a team to fear in the competitive scene.

DarkZero Esports

DarkZero Esports, hailing from Australia, is a two-time ALGS champion, with victories in 2022 and beyond. The team’s strategic gameplay and ability to dominate in the late stages of matches help them gain a spot as one of the best. DarkZero’s calm and composed playstyle has allowed them to consistently perform at the highest levels, making them one of the top teams in the APAC South region and on the global stage.

These teams represent the very best in Apex Legends esports, showcasing incredible teamwork, skill, and strategy at every major event. Their continued dominance in regional and international competitions has made them fan favorites and key players in the global Apex Legends scene.

Best Apex Legends Esports Players 

Apex Legends has seen the rise of several top-tier players who have made their mark in competitive gaming. Each of these players are popular for their unique skills, incredible teamwork, and standout performances in the esports scene. Here’s a look at some of the best Apex Legends esports players today:

Phony

Phony is a skilled player renowned for his versatility and clutch performances. He made a name for himself by playing for top teams in North America and consistently delivering in high-pressure situations. His aggressive playstyle and ability to make game-changing decisions have earned him respect in the esports community.

Reps

Reps is a cornerstone of TSM, one of the most successful Apex Legends teams. Known for his exceptional support play and clutch revives, Reps has been instrumental in many of TSM’s victories. His calm demeanor and strategic mind make him a crucial part of TSM’s success, and he is often praised for his game sense and teamwork.

Zer0

Zer0 is one of the standout players from DarkZero Esports. Hailing from Australia, Zer0’s strategic mindset and calm under pressure have led DarkZero to multiple ALGS titles. His ability to make critical decisions in late-game situations has been key to his team’s success on the global stage, making him one of the top players in the APAC South region.

Genburten

Genburten is a mechanical genius in Apex Legends, known for his fast reflexes and deadly aim. As a star player from FURIA Esports, he has dazzled fans with his aggressive playstyle and unmatched precision. His technical skills and ability to win close-range fights have made him one of the most feared players in the game.

Hakis

Hakis, a Swedish player for Alliance, is a master tactician and in-game leader. His leadership helped Alliance win the Esports World Cup 2024. He’s made a name for himself thanks for making smart, game-changing calls during matches. Hakis’ ability to read the battlefield and guide his team through intense situations makes him one of the top leaders in the Apex esports world.

Dosen (ImperialHal)

Often called the “CEO of Apex Legends,” ImperialHal, whose real name is Phillip Dosen, is one of the most celebrated players in the game. Playing for TSM, he is renowed for his high IQ plays and leadership in tense moments. His ability to make clutch decisions under pressure has helped his team secure multiple tournament wins, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest Apex Legends players of all time.

Verhulst

Verhulst is a rising star in the Apex Legends scene and currently plays alongside ImperialHal in TSM. Known for his consistency and high-level gameplay, Verhulst has proven to be a reliable and versatile player. His communication and synergy with his team have made him a key part of TSM’s recent successes.

Snip3down

Snip3down is a veteran in the esports world, with experience in multiple competitive games. As a player for FaZe Clan, he has brought his talents to Apex Legends, where his precision and leadership shine. Known for his incredible sniping abilities and game sense, Snip3down is one of the most respected and experienced players in the scene.

Apex Legends Esports Guide: Meta and Strategy 

The Apex Legends esports meta is always changing, with new strategies and legends rising to the top in competitive play. Understanding the current meta, popular strategies, and recent patch changes is key to staying ahead in the game.

Current Meta

The current Apex Legends meta revolves around a mix of mobility, defense, and real-time information gathering. Legends like Bangalore, Horizon, and Revenant are top picks because of their ability to reposition quickly and control space during fights. 

Bangalore’s smokes provide cover, Horizon’s lift grants vertical mobility, and Revenant’s ultimate gives teams an edge in aggressive pushes. Legends that combine offense and defense, like Gibraltar and Wattson, are also popular in competitive play, helping teams lock down key areas and survive through final circles.

Popular Strategies

• Legend Synergy: Teams often pick legends that complement each other’s abilities. For example, Wraith for mobility, Gibraltar for defense, and Bloodhound for enemy scans provide excellent balance in combat situations.
• High Ground Control: Securing high ground remains one of the most effective strategies in Apex Legends. Teams use legends like Horizon or Pathfinder to quickly gain vertical advantage, giving them better sightlines and defensive positioning.
• Area Denial: Using abilities to block or control space is essential, especially in the late game. Legends like Caustic and Fuse are often used to restrict enemy movement with their traps and explosive abilities.
• Quick Rotations: Teams utilize legends like Valkyrie for her Skyward Dive, allowing quick rotations across the map to avoid bad positioning or third-party attacks.

Patch Impact

Recent patches have shaken up the meta by introducing Legend Upgrades, giving each legend new perks as they level up. For example, Pathfinder’s grapple resets after knocking down an enemy, adding more mobility to fights. 

Additionally, the removal of craftable armor has shifted the focus toward looting more efficiently during early and mid-game. These changes have forced teams to adapt quickly, making the competitive scene even more dynamic.

Apex Legends Esports Viewership and Fan Engagement 

Apex Legends esports has a passionate and growing fanbase that enjoys watching tournaments, supporting teams, and engaging with the community. From streaming platforms to fan forums, there are many ways for viewers to stay connected and involved in the action.

Viewership Stats

Apex Legends has seen incredible viewership growth. The 2023 Crazy Raccoon Cup reached an all-time peak of 704,937 viewers, while the 2024 ALGS Playoffs attracted over 567,000 viewers. These stats highlight the game’s growing popularity in the esports world. Fans can follow the action live on various platforms.

Streaming Platforms

Fans can watch Apex Legends esports matches on several platforms:

• Twitch: @playapex 
• YouTube: @playapexesports

Fan Communities

Apex Legends has an active fan base across various online communities:

• Reddit: r/ApexLegends
• Discord: Official Apex Legends Discord
• X (Formerly Twitter): @PlayApexEsports 
• Instagram: @playapex
• Facebook: @playapex

Merchandise and Sponsorships

Fans can support their favorite teams through official merchandise available on team websites and stores like EA’s Shop and Apex Legends online store. Prominent sponsors like Red Bull, Monster Energy, and NVIDIA play key roles in supporting events and teams, engaging fans through branded content and promotions during tournaments.

Latest Big News about Apex Legends Esports

Here are some of the biggest events currently shaping the Apex Legends Esports scene. 

Zeddo Gets Overpaid While Others Wait

In 2024, Apex Legends esports has faced several challenges, including issues with prize distribution. Multiple pro players have come forward to report delays and errors in receiving their winnings. For example, a player known as Zeddo was mistakenly paid $100,000 despite playing only one match as a substitute. 

Meanwhile, other players, like Shooby, have reported receiving only a fraction of their earnings months after the tournament, raising concerns about financial management in the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS)​. 

Hackings Plague Apex Legends Esports Tournaments

Additionally, the competitive scene has experienced controversies involving hacking incidents, where matches were postponed due to players being hacked during official tournaments. This has raised concerns about the integrity of the esports competitions and the security of the game​ 

Apex Legends Esports Guide: How to Get Involved 

For New Players and Aspiring Pros

If you’re looking to get involved in Apex Legends esports and take your skills to the next level, here are a few tips to get started:

• Climb the Ranks: Start by grinding Ranked Mode to improve your skill level and experience against tougher opponents. The higher you climb, the more likely you’ll be noticed by competitive teams.
• Join Tournaments: Participate in open tournaments like the Challenger Circuit to gain experience. These tournaments are accessible to all players and can serve as a stepping stone to the Pro League.
• Watch and Learn: Study top professional players by watching streams and competitions. Analyze their strategies, movements, and decision-making in high-pressure situations.
• Find a Team: Building synergy with a consistent squad is key. Start teaming up with players who share the same goals to enter more structured competitions together.

For Fans

If you’re a fan looking to stay connected with the Apex Legends esports scene, here are some ways to stay involved:

• Follow Social Media Accounts: Keep up with the latest news and events by following official accounts like @PlayApexEsports on X and joining the discussion on Reddit at r/ApexLegends.
• Join Discord Communities: Engage with other fans and players by joining popular servers like the Apex Legends Official Discord.
• Watch Live Matches: Tune into Twitch and YouTube to watch live esports events and support your favorite teams in real-time.

Final Thoughts

Apex Legends has become a major player in the esports world, with its fast-paced gameplay, diverse strategies, and ever-growing community. The game’s regular updates, large prize pools, and global competitions make it an exciting esports to follow. Whether you’re a player or a fan, Apex Legends offers something for everyone, and its esports scene continues to rise in prominence across the globe.