Get Ready to Rumble: How New Players Can Gear Up for the GTCC This September

The GTCC is returning this September, and it’s shaping up to be the biggest event yet. 

Added to that, the upcoming GTCC tournament is open to both new and seasoned players—and if you’re either, take this as a sign to join.

In this article, we will cover everything you need to know to join, prepare for, and win at the GameZone Tablegame Champions Cup.

The Live Debut of Tongits: A Historic Moment for GTCC

GTCC recently held its summer tournament from June 12 to 15, 2025, at Makati City. 

Three victors claimed the top prizes at the tournament, each armed to the teeth and propelled to play tactically to win for their loved ones.

But the highlight of the summer showdown? It was GTCC’s historic live debut of Tongits.

And the September tournament will be extra special, as it will continue GameZone’s offline matches of the beloved Filipino card game.

Known as one of the most beloved Pinoy card games, Tongits combines bluffing, strategy, and luck—all in a fast-paced, heart-pounding format.

Below are some of the things to look out for at the next GTCC tournament edition:

• Real-time Tongits battles are livestreamed for audiences.

• Official GTCC Tongits rules standardize gameplay and ensure fairness.

• Live commentators to break down moves, strategy, and upsets.

• A new Tongits leaderboard that tracks rising stars and dominant players.

So,if you’ve ever claimed to be the Tongits king or queen of your neighborhood, now’s your chance to prove it—live and loud!

Tips to Prepare Like a GTCC Pro

So, you’ve signed up. What now? It’s time to train like the latent Tongits champion inside you.

Whether you’re joining for fun or aiming to win it all, here are GTCC champion preparation tips to gear new players for success:

Master the Rules

GTCC follows standardized gameplay rules, especially for Tongits, so brush up on:

• How to declare “Tongits” or “Draw”

• The proper use of “Sapaw” and “Burn”

• When to fold or challenge

• The scoring system used by GTCC officials

Watch Past Tournaments

Observe how top players manage their hands, bluff their opponents, and time their moves. 

Watching past tournaments is especially helpful for understanding in-game tempo and psychological tactics.

Practice in Ranked Games

GameZone offers practice rooms and ranked matches.

Use these to simulate tournament pressure and develop your instincts. 

Tongits in a competitive setting feels very different from a friendly game at home.

Join a Community

GTCC has a growing online community on platforms like Facebook and Discord.

New players can join these spaces to

• Ask questions about gameplay or rules

• Find scrim partners

• Learn from seasoned GTCC veterans

Train Your Mindset

Tournaments aren’t just about skills—they’re about mental toughness. 

Learn to stay calm when your hand is bad, focus under pressure, and play each round like it’s your last. 

Confidence and emotional control are key to progressing at cagey and thrilling Tongits matches.

What’s at Stake at the GTCC?

GTCC offers cash prizes, merchandise, exclusive badges, and even the chance to carve their names in GameZone’s Hall of Fame.

For Tongits players, this is a historic opportunity to leave a mark on the tournament’s legacy.

Additionally, GTCC opens doors to future sponsorships, team invites, or even influencer-level opportunities within the local gaming space.

Final Thoughts: The GTCC is a Stage for You to Shine

The upcoming GTCC tournament in September is more than just a competition.

It’s a celebration of Filipino card culture, and this year’s inclusion of Tongits takes that celebration to the next level. 

Overall, whether you’re a longtime lurker or someone who’s just discovered GameZone, this is your official invitation.

Sign up, shuffle those cards, and get ready to take your seat at the competitive GameZone table.