MAKATI CITY — The biggest multi-title tabletop gaming event of the year is set to take over The Concourse at One Ayala on October 24 and 25, 2026. The Neutral Grounds Champions League 2026 Grand Finals will bring together store champions from ten Neutral Grounds branches across the country, who have battled through months of qualifying events to earn their spots. The weekend promises two full days of competitive play, side tournaments, and community activities for players and spectators alike. It is a celebration of the hobby that has built a dedicated following in Makati and beyond.
A Showdown of Store Champions
The Grand Finals on Day 1 will feature head-to-head competition across five game titles: Magic: The Gathering, Riftbound: League of Legends, Flesh and Blood, Marvel Crisis Protocol, and Conquest: Last Argument of Kings. These are the same titles that anchored the league's qualifying period, which ran from July 27 to September 6, 2026. Players accumulated points through sanctioned events at participating stores, with the top point earners per store and per game title earning the right to represent their branches. The finals will determine which store claims bragging rights as the best in the country.
Side Events and Activities for Every Player
Beyond the main competition, the weekend offers a packed schedule of side events. Day 1 includes the Conquest: Bloodhunt and the Radiance Release Party at The Hobby Hub. Day 2 features the RIFTMASTERS: Radiance 3v3 Team Battle, Magic: The Gathering Wonderland, Warmachine: Into the Frontline, and the NGCL Cosplay Showdown. Free Learn to Play demos will run on both days for titles including Magic, Flesh and Blood, Star Wars: Unlimited, Riftbound, Cyberpunk TCG, Conquest Miniatures, StarCraft Tabletop Miniatures, and Marvel Crisis Protocol. These sessions are designed to welcome newcomers and give curious attendees a hands-on introduction to the games.
A Growing Hub for Tabletop Gaming in Makati
The choice of One Ayala as the venue reflects Makati's growing role as a hub for hobby and gaming communities. Neutral Grounds itself operates a store on the 4th floor of One Ayala, making the mall a natural gathering place for players in the area. The event also underscores the vibrant tabletop scene in the Philippines, which has expanded steadily through organized play, community tournaments, and retail support. For local players, the Champions League Finals offer a chance to witness high-level competition while connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
