The Esports World Cup 2022 has commenced in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, marking the beginning of the world’s largest gaming championship. Approximately 1,500 global esports champions have gathered in Boulevard City to compete for a staggering prize pool of $60 million (£47 million).
Ralf Reichert, the chief executive of the Esports World Cup Foundation, described the event as a significant moment in esports history, emphasizing the unification of gaming and sports as universal languages that bring together the global community and drive growth in the esports industry.
Throughout the tournament, participants will engage in competitions across 21 popular games, including Apex Legends, Call of Duty, Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Fortnite. The variety of games ensures a diverse and engaging experience for players and spectators alike.
One of the most notable aspects of the Esports World Cup is its record-breaking prize money, with winners set to share an unprecedented $60 million (£47.2 million). This substantial prize pool comes at a crucial time for the esports industry, which has faced challenges such as layoffs, team closures, and tournament cancellations.
The distribution of prize money to successful clubs throughout the tournament is a strategic move to support and sustain esports organizations during challenging times. By providing significant funding to clubs, the tournament aims to bolster the ecosystem and ensure the continued growth and success of the esports industry.
The extravagant opening ceremony of the Esports World Cup featured popular influencers Tyler1 and the UK’s Danny Aarons, along with spectacular displays of pyrotechnics and drone shows. The event set the stage for an exciting and vibrant eight weeks of gaming festivities in Riyadh, transforming the city into a lively hub of esports entertainment.
With 21 different games being played over the course of eight weeks, newcomers to esports may find it overwhelming to decide where to start. Video Games Industry Memo writer George Osborn recommends watching the Rocket League games for those new to esports. Describing it as “football with cars,” Osborn highlights the fast-paced and engaging nature of Rocket League matches, making it an ideal entry point for beginners.
The growing popularity of esports is evident in the increasing number of enthusiasts worldwide. In 2019, an estimated 197 million people identified as esports enthusiasts, a figure that is expected to rise to 285.7 million this year. The continuous growth of the esports industry reflects its appeal to a broad and diverse audience, solidifying its position as a mainstream form of entertainment and competition.