StarLadder has announced the full lineup of hosts, casters, and analysts for the CS2 Major Budapest 2025. The event will bring together some of Counter-Strike’s most popular personalities, mixing experience with new energy. The roster features the iconic duos SPUNJ & Machine, Scrawny & Launders, and several new names joining the analyst desk.
The Official Talent Lineup for StarLadder Major Budapest 2025
StarLadder divided its broadcast team into two main groups — hosts and analysts, and casters. This balance ensures a mix of professionalism, charisma, and fresh perspectives.
Hosts and Analysts
- James Banks — Stage Host / Interviewer
- Freya — Desk Host
- Tech Girl — Desk Host
- Pimp, Devilwalk, Mauisnake, Tedd — Analysts
Casters
- SPUNJ, Machine, Scrawny, Launders
- Hugo Byron, JustHarry, Moses, Dinko
However, this might not be the final list. StarLadder hinted that more surprises could follow soon, including “special guests.”
From Machine to Dinko: Tradition Meets Innovation
Meet the ever-so-lovely talent lineup for the StarLadder Budapest Major 2025!
But wait, we might have a few more surprises in store! Stay tuned for our special guests!👀 pic.twitter.com/9YZzyx4jHi
— StarLadder CS2 (@StarLadder_CS) October 28, 2025
The reunion of Machine and SPUNJ was welcomed with excitement. Their chemistry has defined Major broadcasts for years. Together, they symbolize consistency and the high standards of modern Counter-Strike production.
Meanwhile, the North American duo Scrawny and Launders will bring their trademark energy and humor to the desk. Hugo Byron and JustHarry, known for their synergy and friendly banter, will also return to the main stage.
In contrast, Dinko & Moses form the most unexpected pair. Fans already describe this combination as a “creative experiment.” The mix of Dinko’s enthusiasm and Moses’ experience could bring a unique tone to the Major.
Fresh Faces on the Analyst Desk
The analyst lineup gained particular attention. Alongside veterans Pimp and Devilwalk, the addition of Mauisnake and Tedd introduces a new generation of CS2 thinkers. Both are known for their detailed breakdowns and analytical creativity.
Freya and Tech Girl will lead the studio segment. Their combination of British professionalism and South African energy promises a lively atmosphere. In addition, James Banks returns as stage host — a role that has long become his signature.
Community Reaction: Excitement, Nostalgia, and Humor
Twitter exploded after the announcement, generating over 120,000 views within a few hours. Fans praised the lineup’s diversity, though some missed familiar faces from previous years.
Content creator Mamoon “TeaTime” Sabri reacted enthusiastically:
Oh my god Dinko and Moses are together?!?! Who would have thought that could be a duo!
User stellar_ibanez appreciated the new talent:
Excellent lineup. Glad they’re giving a small analyst like Mauisnake a chance!
However, others felt nostalgic:
- “No YNk is a crime, the best analyst out there.”
- “Where the f is HenryG?” — added users Alex and Robert Po.
Another viral post joked:
Looks like an exciting staff, just missing goat @RLewisReports.
One fan even mocked Pimp playfully by sharing his Instagram profile with the caption:
Who is this account pretending to be? Analyst.
Despite the jokes, the overall reaction was positive. Fans called it a “banger lineup” and praised StarLadder for blending charisma, professionalism, and variety.
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A Grand Return for StarLadder
The Budapest Major 2025 marks StarLadder’s long-awaited comeback. The organization last hosted a Major in Berlin 2019, widely remembered as one of the best CS:GO events ever. Now, six years later, StarLadder returns to the spotlight — this time in the CS2 era.
The tournament will take place at Budapest Arena from November 9–23, 2025. It features 24 teams competing for a $1.25 million prize pool and the title of CS2 World Champion.
After the success of PGL Major Astana 2025, many hope StarLadder will revive the magic of the “classic Majors.” The focus is expected to be on top-tier production, emotional storytelling, and the personalities that define the scene.
The StarLadder Major Budapest 2025 talent announcement shows a clear vision: to merge tradition with innovation. The lineup includes established legends, fresh voices, and a modern approach that reflects the new CS2 era.
More announcements are on the way. StarLadder has already promised “special guests,” which could add the final touch to what is shaping up to be one of the most memorable esports events of the year.
