The Esports World Cup Basis, the organiser of the Esports World Cup, has introduced a multi-year partnership with on-line chess platform Chess.com.
Because of this, Chess might be included within the Esports World Cup 2025 line-up and may have a $1.5m (~£1.18m) event. Gamers will qualify for the occasion by means of the Champions Chess Tour (CCT).
As well as, Grandmaster chess participant Magnus Carlsen has develop into an envoy of the sport on the EWC.
Chess, extra particularly the digital model of the sport made well-liked by platforms comparable to Chess.com, is the primary introduced title to make its debut on the 2025 Esports World Cup in Riyadh.
Whereas not an esports title per se, Chess is rising in recognition as an attention-grabbing different to ‘traditional’ esports video games. Chess tournaments are repeatedly streamed on-line and see tons of of hundreds of peak viewers.
gamers will be capable to qualify for the 2025 Esports World Cup occasion by means of the Champions Chess Tour, a sequence of occasions organised by Chess.com. The event organiser stated that there might be two occasions in 2025 that may qualify gamers for the EWC, and the highest 12 CCT gamers will obtain invites.
A final-chance qualifier may even be held for beginner and professional gamers in Riyadh.
Magnus Carlsen, one of many most-known skilled chess gamers within the scene right now, will assist promote the event. In keeping with a launch, Carlsen will “assist join chess with the broader esports neighborhood.” Carlsen added that the EWC is an incredible alternative to showcase chess to a large group of esports followers.
Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Basis, commented: “It’s the right instance of how video games evolve: from boards to screens, the core competitors stays the identical. Chess’ wealthy historical past, international enchantment, and thriving aggressive scene make it an ideal match for our mission to unite the world’s hottest video games and their passionate communities below one aggressive umbrella.
“Partnering with the main on-line platform for the sport, Chess.com, and appointing the legendary Magnus Carlsen, a real GOAT of the game, as the sport’s ambassador, permits us to not solely showcase Chess on a large stage but in addition to drive innovation and development inside its already vibrant ecosystem. “
