I'm semi-interested in the TF2 competitive community, possibly even getting involved in playing in a league at the entry level. As such, I am looking for a competitive group that allows pub-level players to compete (both in terms of skill and in terms of access).
What types of leagues/communities are there that would allow a base-level gamer, with little competitive experience, to participate in a TF2 tournament?
I'm aware that there are different types of competitive TF2 – Highlander, 6v6, et cetera, and some rather goofy ones too. The exact format isn't my primary concern so much as knowing what leagues/groups allow regular Joe Shmoe to enter.
Best Answer
The Official Team Fortress Wiki has names of some organizations that do league play. If you are in North America, the ESEA has an open division and pick up games for players of all skill levels.
These leagues may run the Standard competitive format, which is a 6 on 6 match with crits off and team composition limiting (only 2 scouts on a team at one time, etc.) and fixed weapon spread; Highlander, which is a 9 on 9 match with the same rules as SCF, but only 1 player per class per team; and fun competitions like Ultiduo or Basketball.
Due to the decrease in popularity in competitive play, the ESL shut down their TF2 ladders on May 5th, 2012.