Patch
A game update that changes balance, fixes bugs, or adds content. Patches often shift the competitive meta significantly.
About this term
Patch is an esports term. A game update that changes balance, fixes bugs, or adds content. Patches often shift the competitive meta significantly.
Related Esports Terms
BO1 / BO3 / BO5
Best of 1, Best of 3, or Best of 5. The number of maps or games played to determine a match winner. BO3 and BO5 are most common in playoff settings.
LAN
Local Area Network. A LAN event is an in-person tournament where players compete on-site, as opposed to playing online.
Group Stage
The opening phase of a tournament where teams are split into groups and play a round-robin or Swiss format to qualify for the bracket.
Double Elimination
A bracket format with an upper and lower bracket. Teams move to the lower bracket on their first loss and are eliminated on their second.
Swiss Format
Teams with the same record face each other each round. Common in CS2 and LoL group stages. Efficient for large participant pools.
IGL
In-Game Leader. The player responsible for calling strategies and making real-time tactical decisions during a match.