The Esports World Cup, one of the most significant multi-discipline tournaments in competitive gaming, attracted attention for its decision to include chess in its lineup. The tournament, boasting a staggering total prize pool of $70 million, featured teams playing across 25 popular games, including titles like Call of Duty and League of Legends. The inclusion of chess was seen as a landmark achievement, bringing the game into the esports spotlight 139 years after the first World Chess Champion was declared.
Carlsen, aged 34, known for his innovative approach to the game, triumphed over the eighth-ranked player, Alireza Firouzja, after navigating through a rigorous group stage and playoffs. The players competed live on stage, their moves monitored by heart rate trackers, which added an exciting layer reminiscent of traditional sports. Carlsen expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “It’s been an amazing show, unlike anything that I’ve seen so far... I really hope that this is a big part of the future for chess.”
This tournament highlights the potential shift for chess within the esports community, as Carlsen previously made headlines for withdrawing from competitions over rigid dress codes. His victory and the public's engagement with the online chess format may pave the way for more opportunities for the game in competitive gaming arenas.
Carlsen's actions and success in the Esports World Cup shine a light on chess's evolving presence in the gaming world, suggesting the future holds even more innovative integrations of traditional games in modern formats, possibly leading to a larger stage for chess enthusiasts worldwide.
Carlsen, aged 34, known for his innovative approach to the game, triumphed over the eighth-ranked player, Alireza Firouzja, after navigating through a rigorous group stage and playoffs. The players competed live on stage, their moves monitored by heart rate trackers, which added an exciting layer reminiscent of traditional sports. Carlsen expressed enthusiasm for the event, stating, “It’s been an amazing show, unlike anything that I’ve seen so far... I really hope that this is a big part of the future for chess.”
This tournament highlights the potential shift for chess within the esports community, as Carlsen previously made headlines for withdrawing from competitions over rigid dress codes. His victory and the public's engagement with the online chess format may pave the way for more opportunities for the game in competitive gaming arenas.
Carlsen's actions and success in the Esports World Cup shine a light on chess's evolving presence in the gaming world, suggesting the future holds even more innovative integrations of traditional games in modern formats, possibly leading to a larger stage for chess enthusiasts worldwide.
