Start.gg announced its return to independence on January 30, 2025. The company said the platform would keep operating as a self-service esports service and that current and future tournaments were expected to proceed as planned. The announcement is not a new development in 2026.
Why did Start.gg part ways with Microsoft?
Start.gg framed the move as a return to independence and a step toward the platform’s long-term health and growth. Co-founder Chris Ogle wrote, “We’re excited to announce that, starting today, Start.gg will be returning to its roots as an independent company supporting grassroots and professional esports communities.” Start.gg said it began in 2015 and that its leadership would include original smash.gg team members, tournament organizers, and engineers. Start.gg Company Update, January 30, 2025
The company did not publish transaction terms, a sale price, or a detailed explanation of the separation. The announcement supports describing the change as a return to independent operation; it does not establish the legal or financial structure behind it.
Is Start.gg still owned by Microsoft?
No. Start.gg’s January 2025 announcement said it was returning to independence. In an August 2026 update, the company described itself as self-funded, without outside investors, and operating with members of its early team. Start.gg company update, August 2026
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That later update indicates the platform continued operating after the announcement. It does not disclose the terms of the separation from Microsoft.
What happens to Start.gg tournaments?
Start.gg said tournaments would continue as planned and that the platform would remain a self-service esports service. In the announcement, Ogle wrote: “Start.gg will continue to operate as a self-service esports platform, and you can expect your current and future tournaments to proceed as planned.” Start.gg Company Update, January 30, 2025
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The company’s later updates describe continued platform operations. Start.gg also announced an iOS and Android app with tournament notifications in August 2026. Start.gg company update, August 2026
Will Start.gg still support Microsoft Account login?
Start.gg’s updates described a migration away from Microsoft services. Existing users who sign in with a Microsoft Account could continue logging in, but new accounts could no longer be created using Microsoft login. Start.gg updates
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That distinction matters: the transition did not mean existing Microsoft Account users were immediately locked out, but Microsoft login was no longer an option for creating a new account. Check Start.gg’s current login guidance for the latest account instructions.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What changed for paid tournament registrations?
The January 2025 announcement said Start.gg would implement a registration fee on paid registrations transacted through the platform. Start.gg Company Update, January 30, 2025 The reviewed company pages do not establish a complete current fee schedule, so the announcement alone should not be treated as confirmation of the exact fee or every present-day charge. Organizers should consult Start.gg’s current terms and registration settings before setting prices.
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- PRO HYPERTRIGGERS — Set the triggers for instant actuation with zero travel time or ultra precise analog control—be fully immersed in the action and feel every trigger pull with integrated haptic vibrations
- HALL EFFECT PRECISION THUMBSTICKS — Experience analog thumbsticks that are not only more accurate than traditional models but are smoother, lighter, and more durable thanks to their anti-friction rings and pro grade materials
- HYPERSPEED WIRELESS — Delivering an ultra-low latency 2.4 GHz connection via its USB Type A dongle, experience fast, reliable performance that meets the demands of the most intense competitive players on Xbox and PC
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Start.gg before and after the announcement
| Area | Microsoft period / announcement | Independent operation |
|---|---|---|
| Company control | Start.gg announced on January 30, 2025, that it was returning to independence; the announcement does not detail the separation terms. Start.gg Company Update | In August 2026, Start.gg described itself as self-funded, without outside investors, and operating with members of its early team. Start.gg company update |
| Service continuity | Start.gg said the platform would remain self-service and current and future tournaments would proceed as planned. Start.gg Company Update | Start.gg continued publishing company updates and announced a mobile app in August 2026. Start.gg company update |
| Microsoft Account access | Start.gg’s updates described a migration from Microsoft services. Start.gg updates | Existing Microsoft Account users could continue logging in; new accounts could not be created with Microsoft login. Start.gg updates |
| Paid registrations | The 2025 announcement said a fee would apply to paid registrations transacted through Start.gg. Start.gg Company Update | A complete current fee schedule is not stated in the cited company pages. Start.gg Company Update; Start.gg updates |
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