fl0m launches “Mythical LAN 2026” with $30,000 prize pool in Las Vegas

Erik “fl0m” Flom, long known in the CS community as a streamer and player, has officially announced his first LAN tournament: fl0m’s Mythical LAN, scheduled for January 9–11, 2026, at the HyperX Esports Arena in Las Vegas. The event will host eight invitees from North America’s VRS sub-region, with a live audience limited to 500 spectators. 

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Format, invites, and structure

Invitations & qualification:
Invites will go out to eight North American rosters based on the November 2025 VRS standings.  The event is also classified as a VRS-ranked Tier-two LAN, meaning performances here will influence VRS calculations and Major qualification dynamics. 

Tournament structure:

• Two GSL-style groups, each with best-of-three matches.

• The top two from each group advance to a single-elimination playoff (also BO3).

• Prize distribution:

  • 1st: $12,500

  • 2nd: $7,000

  • 3–4th: $3,000 each

  • 5–6th: $1,250 each

  • 7–8th: $1,000 each 

Fl0m also indicated that ticketing would be available for $200, with a VIP option and a cap of 500 fans in attendance. 

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Motivation & positioning

In his public statements, fl0m described the LAN as a dream realized. He cited inspiration from production styles like Beyond The Summit, which emphasize atmosphere and player comfort—even if not always in front of full live crowds. fl0m said he wants to take that concept "and make it the house," putting the LAN in the HyperX Arena and blending stage energy with relaxed vibes. 

For the North American region, which has had fewer high-profile LANs in recent years compared to Europe and Asia, Mythical LAN 2026 could be a key moment. It offers competitive exposure, live stage experience, and VRS impact inside one event. (Referenced in community news coverage.)

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fl0m’s profile & stats ahead of the event

Erik “fl0m” Flom is 33 years old according to HLTV, with an all-time rating of 1.00 across 999 maps played.  His recent performances have been modest; he has no major trophies to date. Known more as a content creator and grassroots figure than a top competitive contender, he brings name recognition, community backing, and organizational intention to this LAN project. 

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Why this LAN matters

1. North American LAN boost
   Large, well-funded LANs focused on NA are rarer now compared to European events. Mythical LAN gives top regional teams a domestic stage without cross-continent travel. 

2. VRS and influence
   Because the event uses VRS invites, performance here may feed into Major qualification paths. For lineups on the bubble, this could be a strategic target. 

3. Brand and ecosystem building
   For fl0m individually, this is a stepping stone from streaming/playing to event organizer, staking out a role in the CS2 ecosystem. The success or failure of Mythical LAN may shape future independent or semi-independent LANs in North America.

4. Fan experience & scale
   With just 500 fans in the stands, the event may balance intimacy with spectacle. Execution will matter: production, attendee logistics, streaming, and broadcast quality will all influence whether Mythical LAN can scale in future editions.

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Possible challenges & considerations

• Timing & scheduling collisions
  January is often crowded with qualifiers and mid-season events. Ensuring top teams can commit without burning out or compromising other priorities will be key.

• Prize pool & cost balancing
  A $30,000 pool is solid for Tier-two, but factoring travel, logistics, and production may pressure margins. Attracting sponsors and ensuring break-even or profit is nontrivial.

• VRS eligibility & invite criteria debate
  The decision to tie invites to November VRS standings will prompt scrutiny. Teams just below cutoff may feel the margin is too tight or opaque.

• Scaling sustainability
  If the first edition runs well, can Mythical LAN expand (more teams, higher prize, wider audience)? Or will it remain a boutique event?