EA Announces Hotel Funding Cuts for Apex Legends ALGS

For this year’s ALGS Open, Electronic Arts (EA) will cover players' travel expenses, but they’ve now announced that players will be expected to self-fund their hotel stays. 

This news has resulted in a backlash from the players and the Apex Legends esports community. 

EA has stated that by doing this, the event will be more “equitable.” 

Later this year, Apex Legends will be part of the Esports World Cup 2025. 

EA’s Reasoning

The ALGS will feature more than 160 teams this year. 

In past years, EA covered travel and hotel stays. EA provided two rooms per team, which were shared between players and a coach. 

Now, due to the increased size of the event, they’re rolling back the hotel accommodations. They opted to cover travel rather than hotels so that players, regardless of where they’re located in the world, can make it to the event.

A spokesperson at EA said, “By covering airfare for all qualified teams, we’re providing a level playing field for players to compete, no matter where in the world they come from or how expensive their travel would be. Airfare typically has fewer options available, whereas there are a variety of accommodation options players can leverage depending on their budget.”

EA has also said that they’ll ensure that booking is smooth for players by letting hotels in the area know the event is happening. This will include discount codes and a travel guide with visa requirements. 

Apex Legends Community Reaction

With this news, of course, the sentiment among players and the community is fairly split. 

Some players see is as necessary with the larger tournament, while others are citing the changes being too last minute. 

Jake Lucky posted some reactions from players on X. 

“It’s 2025 and this could have so easily been solved by just doing a designated skin bundle or merchandise for the Open LAN, which would have crowdfunded all the travel, accommodation and then some for the 160 team open LAN,” said John ‘Hakis‘ Håkansson of Alliance.

“3/4 months to make money for the trip, for all these people that is a dream come true for them. They just expect handouts because that’s what was given before this entire time,” said Phillip “ImperialHal” Dosen. 

The first ALGS season came in 2021, taking place between May 22 and June 13. 

Now, in 2025, it’ll be double the size of the 2024 season. 

“Those complaining need to just not compete [in my opinion]. If you think you won’t earn more than what [accommodation] costs then why are you going?” said Ben “Wxltzy” Walton of Falcons.