Source: Riot Games

As top teams in the so-called 'Group of Death' (Alpha Group) battle for position, the outcomes of Week 4 are set to determine the future trajectory of Playio DRX (KRX), Gen.G (GEN), and Nongshim RedForce (NS).

Riot Games, the developer and publisher of the 5v5 character-based tactical shooter 'VALORANT,' announced that the Week 4 schedule for the 2026 VCT Pacific Stage 1 will take place from Friday, the 24th, to Sunday, the 26th, at the SOOP Sangam Colosseum in Mapo-gu, Seoul.

○ Chaos in Alpha Group: Who Will Secure a Playoff Spot?

The playoff picture in the Alpha Group remains unclear. With narrow margins between second and fifth place, rankings could shift at any moment based on remaining match results. The competition for survival is expected to intensify further following the results of Week 4.

On Saturday the 25th, Gen.G and Playio DRX will face off in a match of pride. While Gen.G holds a slight edge in their all-time VCT Pacific head-to-head record at 5-4, Playio DRX enters with better momentum, riding a three-match winning streak. Boasting a roster that balances veteran experience with rookie ambition, Playio DRX is showcasing solid teamwork and will go all-out to secure a win that could solidify their path to the playoffs.

Gen.G, which had built momentum by defeating Paper Rex (PRX), hit a snag in Week 3 with a loss to Nongshim RedForce. With their playoff hopes potentially at risk depending on this match, the key question is whether they can turn things around, led by 'Karon' Kim Won-tae, who displayed sharp sniping skills in their previous outing.

After securing their first win, Nongshim RedForce looks to extend their winning streak against Team Secret (TS) on Sunday the 26th. Having never lost to TS on the VCT Pacific stage, Nongshim RedForce has recently shown improved teamwork through strategic adjustments, such as 'Francis' Kim Mu-bin picking Neon instead of 'Dambi' Lee Hyeok-gyu, forcing TS to prepare thoroughly. All eyes are on whether the team, which once achieved a perfect Masters run, can recapture its signature explosive power and join the playoff race in earnest.

○ Omega Group Gaps Widen: Will There Be a Final Twist?

Unlike the Alpha Group, where the playoff contenders remain a mystery, the Omega Group is beginning to take shape as top teams pull ahead and secure their tickets.

T1 has already clinched a playoff spot, but they show no signs of slowing down in their match against ZETA DIVISION (ZETA) on the 26th. Securing more wins in the group stage leads to a higher ranking, which provides a more favorable starting position in the playoffs and additional Championship Points. A Week 4 victory is essential to achieving both goals.

Currently third in the Omega Group, Rex Regum Qeon (RRQ) faces Full Sense (FS), who have already locked in their playoff spot. For RRQ, currently 2-1, accumulating wins is crucial to staying in the safe zone for the playoffs. It will be worth watching whether RRQ, facing FS for the first time on the VCT Pacific stage, can leverage their signature tactical team play at this critical juncture to keep their playoff journey alive.

The 2026 VCT Pacific Stage 1 is broadcast live via online platforms including YouTube, Chzzk, and SOOP. Further information regarding the tournament schedule and results can be found on the official website, Flickr, Instagram, and TikTok.