This May, Shanghai will transform into the epicenter of competitive gaming as the HERO ESPORTS Asian Champions League (ACL) takes over three of the city’s most iconic venues. From May 16–18, elite players across nine premier esports titles will battle for a share of the $2 million prize pool—and a direct path to the Esports World Cup in Riyadh.
With over 80,000 live attendees expected and global broadcasts reaching millions via Twitch, YouTube, and TikTok, the event solidifies Shanghai’s reputation as the undisputed global esports capital.
A Multi-Venue Gaming Extravaganza
The ACL Grand Finals 2025 will unfold across three legendary Shanghai locations, each hosting a different lineup of high-stakes competitions:
- SPD Bank Oriental Sports Center (Esports Coliseum):
Counter-Strike 2, Honor of Kings (HOK), League of Legends Legend Cup S3
- Jing’an Sports Center (Tactical Esports Arena):
VALORANT Champions Tour, CrossFire
- National Exhibition and Convention Center (Global Gaming Festival Hub):
DOTA 2, Street Fighter 6, Teamfight Tactics, Delta Force
This sprawling setup ensures fans can immerse themselves in their favorite games while experiencing the electric atmosphere of live esports at its finest.
DreamHack’s Debut in China
Adding to the spectacle, DreamHack—the world’s largest gaming festival—will make its China debut alongside the ACL. The collaboration promises an explosive mix of esports, electronic and rap music performances, and interactive gaming culture experiences, setting a new standard for hybrid entertainment events.
A Gateway to the Esports World Cup
Winners of select ACL tournaments will earn direct qualification to the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia—the richest esports event in history. This adds even higher stakes to the competition, as players vie not just for prize money but for a chance to compete on the world’s grandest stage.
Industry Leaders Weigh In
Jonny Wang, CEO of ACL, emphasized Shanghai’s pivotal role: “The city’s world-class esports infrastructure and passionate community make it the perfect host. By merging elite competition with DreamHack’s festival energy, we’re redefining what a global esports event can be.”
Danny Tang, Co-Founder & CEO of Hero Esports, called this their most ambitious project yet: “The ACL bridges Asia’s top talent with the international scene while delivering unforgettable moments for fans through cutting-edge production.”
The Rise of Hero Esports
As the largest esports company in Asia, Hero Esports has been a driving force behind major tournaments, including the Olympic Esports Week and events at the Asian Games. With backing from industry giants like Tencent and Savvy Games Group, the company continues to push boundaries in competitive gaming.
The ACL Grand Finals 2025 isn’t just another tournament—it’s a landmark moment for esports, blending high-stakes competition, cultural celebration, and global prestige. Whether you’re watching from the stands or streaming online, this is an event no gaming fan will want to miss.
