For the new or uninitiated, the League of Legends World Championship is the biggest esports events of the year. Last year's grand finals boasted nearly 60 million viewers and a $5 million prize pool.
So, what is it?
Over the span of a month, 24 of the best teams across the globe will be competing for the most prestigious title in the game. This is the NBA Finals of League of Legends.
What do the winners get out of it?
That big prize purse, bragging rights, skins (in-game cosmetic costumes that change the look of the characters) and a huge trophy.
Where is it?
Worlds is returning to South Korea this year. This is the second time it's being hosted there (the last time was 2014).
When does it take place?
The play-in (pre-group stage) stage kicks off in Seoul on Oct. 1-4 and Oct. 6-7.
The group stage and quarterfinals will take place in Busan on Oct. 10-17 and Oct. 20-21, respectively.
The semifinals will take place in Gwangju on Oct. 27-28.
The finals will take place in Incheon on Nov. 3.
How do I watch?
On ESPN+ and Twitch. Check our Twitter each day for a link to the stream.
Who's playing?
North America
Team Liquid
100 Thieves
Cloud9
Europe
Fnatic
Team Vitality
G2 Esports
South Korea
KT Rolster
Afreeca Freecs
Gen.G
China
Royal Never Give Up
Invictus Gaming
EDward Gaming
Taiwan/Hong Kong/Macau
Flash Wolves
MAD Team
G-Rex
Vietnam
Phong Vũ Buffalo
International
TBD
TBD
TBD
TBD
Brazil
KaBuM! e-Sports
CIS
Gambit Esports
Latin America (North)
Infinity eSports
Latin America (South)
Kaos Latin Gamers
Turkey
SuperMassive eSports
Japan
DetonatioN FocusMe
Oceania
Dire Wolves
South East Asia
Ascension Gaming
What are the pools?
The 2018 World Championship Group Draw #Worlds2018 pic.twitter.com/mWqXTuUKeK
- lolesports (@lolesports) September 23, 2018
The 2018 World Championship Play-In Stage Group Draw #Worlds2018 pic.twitter.com/5O4xSyYEkD
- lolesports (@lolesports) September 23, 2018
Who do I root for?
Depends what you value in a team. Do you want to root for the team with the best odds? South Korea may be your best bet. Or a team that'll make waves? Consider a team from China. Maybe a team that's closer to being a dark horse? Consider Brazil or Turkey. Or are you a sucker for a good Cinderella story? Vietnam may be a good choice here. Or maybe you just want a team with a good logo. In that case, go for G-REX.
What about North America?
Poor North America has a history of disappointing when it matters most on the international stage, so we won't bet on that to change. If you really want a team to root for, Team Liquid is your best bet.
What else do I need to know?
South Korea is the favorite heading in (they've won the past five World Championship titles). China comes in as a close second, having won the Mid-Season Invitational (a mini-World Championship that takes place -- as you've probably guessed it -- in the middle of the season). Europe could make a splash, given the right circumstances, but everything else is up in the air.