G2 Esports opens Minecraft HQ for Worlds 2026 watch parties

Esports organisation G2 has launched a custom Minecraft server that recreates its real-world Berlin office, transforming it into a hub where supporters can gather to watch matches from the 2026 League of Legends World Championship. The virtual headquarters streams every match from the tournament—not just G2's own games—and will remain accessible around the clock even after Worlds concludes, with the team planning additional watch parties throughout 2027.

Access requires Minecraft: Java Edition and a modpack available through CurseForge, a desktop platform for downloading mods. According to shanethegamer.com, players connect via the server IP 199.115.72.109:25565. This setup means console and mobile players cannot currently join, though G2 has not announced plans to expand access to those platforms. The organisation has released 17 downloadable character skins based on G2's professional kits and jerseys from previous seasons, allowing fans to represent their favourite rosters inside the virtual office.

During watch parties, matches appear on giant in-game screens with live commentary from G2 co-streamers. News.white.market reported that the first event covered a best-of-three elimination match between G2 and Hanwha Life Esports on 30 October, with co-streamer Jankos's livestream broadcast inside the virtual space. The Swiss Stage format meant both teams arrived at the match with identical 1-2 records, making it a do-or-die round for each side.

The decision to keep the server running year-round reflects G2's broader strategy. Rather than shutting down after Worlds, the organisation views the Minecraft office as a permanent meeting point for its community. Shanethegamer.com noted that this approach maximises the return on the significant building effort required to recreate a real office space, while also supporting watch parties for G2's different rosters throughout 2027. The team has not yet announced specific dates for those future events.

The launch coincides with what G2 describes as a historic season. Mid-laner Rasmus 'Caps' Winther was inducted into the Hall of Legends, and G2 claimed its 20th LEC regional title—a milestone the organisation says no other team has reached. According to news.white.market, G2 qualified for Worlds as Europe's top seed after defeating Movistar KOI 3-0 in the LEC Summer Split Grand Final.

Community reception

The Minecraft office has generated mixed reactions from players and content creators. Many appreciate the novelty of a branded esports venue inside the game, viewing it as an innovative way to build community engagement beyond traditional streaming. The free access and permanent nature of the server appeal to fans who want a persistent gathering space.

However, some players have raised concerns about the Java Edition requirement and CurseForge dependency, which excludes console and mobile audiences. Critics note that this limits G2's reach compared to a Bedrock server, and question whether the technical barrier might discourage casual players from attending watch parties. Others have expressed scepticism about whether the novelty will sustain interest beyond the initial tournament excitement, though G2's commitment to hosting 2027 events suggests the organisation is betting on long-term appeal.