Getting into Competitive TF2
You've played Team Fortress 2 for a while now - but have you heard of competitive TF2? It's alive, welcoming, and far more approachable than it looks. This page takes you from "I play casual TF2" to "I'm rostered in a league." No prior experience required.
The two formats
Competitive TF2 runs on two main formats. Both are great places to start - pick whichever sounds more fun.
Sixes (6v6)
6 players · the classic format
Fast, aggressive and the most widely played format worldwide. A locked core of six classes with off-classes used situationally.
Highlander (9v9)
9 players · one of every class
One of each of the nine classes per team. Often the easiest on-ramp - you can main your favourite class and lean on your team.
Smaller formats like Ultiduo (2v2), 4v4 and MGE (1v1) also exist - they're a low-pressure way to sharpen aim and game sense.
Leagues, regions & divisions
Leagues by region
Skill divisions
Each league sorts teams into skill tiers, from the top down. New players start at the bottom - that's by design.
Where to watch
Almost every important match is casted live and uploaded afterwards. These are the orgs that broadcast the competitive scene - and you can browse their match VODs right here.
How to find a team
- 1
Get a competitive-ready setup
Install a performance config and a clean HUD, and skim the format ruleset so you know what is allowed. Tools are in Technical setup below.
- 2
Pick a format and a class
New to comp? Highlander lets you main one class. Want the classic experience? Try Sixes as Scout, Soldier, Demo or Medic - Medics are always in demand.
- 3
Join your region’s league and Discord
Make a free account on the league for your region and join its Discord. That is where pickups (PUGs), mixes and recruitment happen.
- 4
Play PUGs and post an LFT
Jump into pickup games to get reps and meet people, then post a "Looking For Team" ad. Browsing the teams here shows you what a roster looks like.
- 5
Sign up for your first season
Roster up and register for the next Open / Newcomer season. Everyone starts at the bottom division - that is exactly where you are meant to begin.
Three ways to start playing
You don't need a team - or even much skill - to start. Pick a lane: jump straight into a pickup, get coached in a beginner mix, or drill on your own.
Jump into a PUG
No team needed - queue up, get picked, play a real match.
Get coached
Beginner mixes and mentors who have been exactly where you are.
Drill solo
Sharpen your aim and movement on your own schedule.
Guides & learning
Technical setup
Jargon buster
The scene has its own vocabulary. Here's the slang you'll hear in PUGs and Discords, decoded.
First-timer FAQ
Explore the scene
The best way to learn is to watch. Dig into live and recent matches, follow the top players, and see where the teams stack up.