VTuber Mahjong Pro League 'VPL' Annual Event Kicks Off: '2nd VPL x Sora no Ue Shopping Mall Cup' Confirmed

Benelic Digital Entertainment Co., Ltd. announces that it will host the '2nd VPL x Sora no Ue Shopping Mall Cup' in collaboration with the VTuber Mahjong Pro League (VPL) within its metaverse facility, 'Sora no Ue Shopping Mall.'

This project combines various elements including a year-long tournament, fan-participation popular votes, the 'VPL Metaverse Athlete Exhibition 2026–2027,' and the 'VPL Sora no Ue Cup Special Arena' for spectating, supporting, and socializing, offering a new viewing and participatory experience unique to the metaverse.

'Sora no Ue Shopping Mall' operates as a metaverse facility featuring various genres of shops, and this initiative is part of its ongoing development.

Overview of the 2nd VPL x Sora no Ue Shopping Mall Cup The tournament features players advancing through four preliminary rounds to compete for the annual champion title in the Grand Championship.

<Annual Schedule> ・Round 1: Sunday, May 24, 2026 ・Round 2: Sunday, July 12, 2026 ・Round 3: Sunday, September 13, 2026 ・Round 4: Sunday, November 29, 2026 ・Grand Championship: Scheduled for Sunday, February 28, 2027

New 'Pair-Team' Rule and Popular Vote The second tournament introduces a 'pair-team' format. Strategy and teamwork will determine the outcome, promising a more dramatic tournament. Additionally, a new 'Popular Vote' slot has been established. The pair receiving the most support in the vote held for each tournament will earn a spot in the Grand Championship alongside the winner and runner-up.

Round 1 Event Details ・Event Start: 19:00 ・Stream Start: 21:00 ・Play-by-play: Sho Yayoi ・Commentary: Hako Hino

Metaverse Viewing Experience: 'VPL Sora no Ue Cup Special Arena' A special arena will be opened in the mall for the tournament. In addition to watching matches on a big screen, visitors can enjoy interactive features such as support comments, heart shower effects, and photo spots.

'VPL Metaverse Athlete Exhibition 2026–2027' The exhibition showcasing certified VPL players is now open. The display has been completely revamped to include new 7th generation players, alongside generations 1 through 6, featuring full-body panels, profiles, and PR videos to help fans support their favorite players.