The 2019 Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) brought one of the world's most significant League of Legends tournaments to Vietnam, marking a notable moment for the country's esports scene. This annual competition, organized by Riot Games, stands as the second-largest event in the League of Legends professional circuit, following only the World Championship. In 2019, Vietnam, as a newly recognized independent region (VCS), hosted key stages of the event, drawing international attention to its growing presence in competitive gaming.
This guide provides a detailed look back at the 2019 tournament, including its format, schedule, and locations, alongside travel suggestions that were relevant for visitors attending the event in Vietnam.
The 2019 Mid-Season Invitational: An Overview
The Mid-Season Invitational has been a cornerstone of the professional League of Legends calendar since its inception in 2015. Held annually, it gathers top teams from various regional leagues to compete for international prestige. The 2019 edition was particularly significant as it marked the first time Vietnam played a central hosting role, reflecting the increasing global reach and popularity of esports in Southeast Asia.
The entire tournament spanned from May 1st to May 19th, 2019, encompassing several distinct competitive phases. These stages were strategically distributed across different locations, allowing attendees to experience both the competitive intensity of the games and the cultural offerings of the host cities.
Tournament Structure and Schedule for MSI 2019
The 2019 MSI featured a comprehensive format designed to identify the strongest teams. The Play-in Stage commenced with 14 participating teams, which were then divided into two groups of eight. These teams engaged in a double round robin format, with all matches decided in a single game. From this initial phase, four winning teams progressed to the subsequent Knock-out Stage, intensifying the competition as the tournament advanced.
The event's schedule and locations within Vietnam were as follows:
- Play-in Stage: This initial phase was split into two rounds. Round 1 took place from May 1st to May 4th, 2019, followed by Round 2 from May 5th to May 7th, 2019. Both rounds were held at the GG Stadium (VCS Studio) in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Group Stage: Following the Play-in Stage, the Group Stage commenced, offering a higher level of professional play. These matches were scheduled from May 10th to May 14th, 2019, at The National Convention Center (NCC) in Hanoi.
- Knock-out Stage: The semifinals and final matches, comprising the Knock-out Stage, were held in Taipei-China.
Acquiring Tickets for MSI 2019
For those planning to attend the 2019 Mid-Season Invitational, tickets became available starting in mid-March of that year. The primary method for securing entry was through online purchase platforms. Given the considerable interest in this major esports event, prospective attendees were advised to act quickly due to high demand.
To register for tickets, an email account was required. Purchasers had the option to complete their payment online or arrange for ticket delivery to a specified location. A restriction was in place, limiting each account to a maximum of four ticket purchases, a measure likely intended to ensure broader access for the fan base.
Exploring Vietnam During the 2019 Tournament
Attendees of the 2019 Mid-Season Invitational found that tournament matches typically began in the early evening, around 6 p.m. This schedule provided ample free time during the mornings and afternoons, presenting an excellent opportunity for visitors to experience Vietnam beyond the esports arena. The country offers a diverse array of activities, from historical exploration to natural wonders.
For those visiting Vietnam for the first time, a half-day city tour provided an excellent introduction to the local culture and historical sites. Such tours were available in various formats, including walking explorations, motorbike excursions, or double-decked bus rides. Visitors could also choose specialized tours focusing on local cuisine, cultural heritage, or general sightseeing. A notable advantage was the flexibility to create a customized itinerary. These city tours were offered in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, allowing attendees to experience the contemporary energy of Ho Chi Minh City and the more traditional atmosphere of Hanoi. Beyond the tournament, visitors had ample opportunity to explore the country. For example, those interested in local goods might consider seeking out unique purchases and souvenirs.
For travelers arriving a few days before the event, spending time at Ha Long Bay was a popular choice. Recognized globally for its natural beauty, Ha Long Bay offered a range of cruise options, from single-day excursions to two-day or three-day journeys. Longer cruises allowed for more extensive exploration of the bay's destinations, opportunities to enjoy fresh seafood, and relaxing overnight stays aboard a ship. While attending the tournament in Hanoi, understanding local financial services could be useful for attendees. Information on banking services in Hanoi is available for travelers.
Key Venues for MSI 2019 in Vietnam
The 2019 Mid-Season Invitational utilized prominent venues in both Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi for its competitive stages within Vietnam. These locations provided the necessary infrastructure for a world-class esports event.
| Venue Name | Location | Dates Hosted | Contact/Booking Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| GG Stadium (VCS Studio) | Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam | May 1st - May 7th, 2019 (Play-in Stage) | Not supplied in source for public inquiry for this past event. |
| The National Convention Center (NCC) | Hanoi, Vietnam | May 10th - May 14th, 2019 (Group Stage) | Not supplied in source for public inquiry for this past event. |
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) 2019?
The Mid-Season Invitational (MSI) 2019 was the annual League of Legends tournament organized by Riot Games, recognized as the second-largest event in the professional League of Legends circuit. In 2019, it was notably hosted in Vietnam for its Play-in and Group Stages.
Which cities in Vietnam hosted MSI 2019 matches?
Ho Chi Minh City hosted the Play-in Stage matches at GG Stadium (VCS Studio), while Hanoi hosted the Group Stage matches at The National Convention Center (NCC).
When did the MSI 2019 tournament take place?
The entire Mid-Season Invitational 2019 tournament ran from May 1st to May 19th, 2019, with the Vietnam-based stages occurring between May 1st and May 14th.
How were tickets for MSI 2019 purchased?
Tickets for MSI 2019 became available in mid-March 2019 and were primarily purchased online. An email account was required for registration, and a limit of four tickets per account was in place.
What activities were recommended for visitors during MSI 2019 in Vietnam?
With tournament games typically starting in the evening, visitors had free time for activities such as half-day city tours in Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City, offering cultural and historical insights. Visiting Ha Long Bay on a one-day or multi-day cruise was also a popular recommendation for those with extra time.
