StarLadder has released its official community broadcast guidelines for the upcoming StarLadder Budapest Major 2025, outlining strict rules for creators wishing to cover the Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) tournament.
The guidelines, published on November 16, define what constitutes a non-commercial stream and prohibit certain production elements, a move that has generated a mixed response from the community. The rules are designed to protect the event’s commercial interests while allowing fan participation, but have raised concerns about the viability for creators who rely on stream revenue.
The guidelines split broadcasters into two categories. The first is for community broadcasters, who can stream for free without a licence provided their channel is non-commercial, uses the official CSTV feed with its inherent 180-second delay, and is produced from a home-based setup without professional overlays or custom HUDs. These streams cannot feature any sponsors or brand placements, though revenue from standard platform features like ads and subscriptions is permitted.
Beyond technical and commercial rules, the guidelines mandate that “commentary, visuals, or messaging related to social, economic, political, environmental, and activism topics are strictly prohibited.” Furthermore, creators must actively moderate their chat to ensure a “welcoming” environment and are forbidden from featuring anyone on Valve’s ban list in any form.
The second category requires a co-streaming licence for any commercial or studio-style broadcast, with applications to be submitted directly to the tournament organiser. Interested parties are instructed to contact the organisers directly at media@starladder.tv.
The regulations have drawn criticism from community figures. Brazilian coach and content creator Luis “peacemaker” Tadeu stated on social media platform X, “[This] honestly made broadcasting the Major practically unviable (at least for those who have bills to pay and also live from streaming).” He highlighted the three-minute delay, lack of in-game HUD, and prohibition on personal advertisements as significant obstacles.
Another creator expressed frustration with the restriction on custom HUDs, calling the rule “completely frustrating.” He argued, “The community casters are trying to help the community, give visibility to the games and create a minimally decent broadcast, and suddenly that is already considered ‘commercial’ just because we use a proper overlay or a slightly better setup.” Conversely, some creators welcomed the clarity. “No license to stream and some clear and clarified rules. How it should be. Big up!”, a comment read.
This move by StarLadder reflects a broader industry movement where tournament organisers are seeking balance for community broadcasting while safeguarding commercial partnerships and the value of official broadcast rights. The StarLadder Budapest Major 2025 is scheduled to run from November 24 to December 14.
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