Chess Enters the Esports Arena: A Historic Moment at EWC 2025
The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 tournament has made a surprising, yet exciting, announcement: chess is officially an esport! This ancient game joins the lineup, marking a significant milestone for both the chess world and the esports community.
Chess Takes Center Stage
A groundbreaking collaboration between Chess.com, Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) brings competitive chess to the world's largest gaming and esports festival. This partnership aims to introduce the strategic game to a broader, more modern audience.
EWCF CEO, Ralf Reichert, expressed his excitement, referring to chess as "the mother of all strategy games." He highlighted the game's global appeal and thriving competitive scene as a perfect fit for the EWC's mission to unite diverse gaming communities.
Magnus Carlsen, a retired world champion and current world number one, will serve as an ambassador, aiming to connect chess with a new generation of players. He emphasized the opportunity to expand the game's reach and inspire future chess masters.
Riyadh Hosts the Chess Showdown
The EWC 2025, taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, boasts a substantial $1.5 million prize pool. To qualify, players must excel in the 2025 Champions Chess Tour (CCT), held in February and May. The top 12 CCT players, along with four from a "Last Chance Qualifier," will compete for a $300,000 prize pool and a coveted spot in the EWC, marking chess's inaugural esports appearance.
To enhance viewer engagement and appeal to esports fans, the 2025 CCT will feature a modified format. Matches will utilize a 10-minute time control without increment, replacing the traditional 90-minute format. Tiebreakers will be decided by a single Armageddon game.
Chess, with roots tracing back 1500 years to ancient India, has evolved over centuries. Its digital adaptation, facilitated by platforms like Chess.com, and its subsequent rise in esports have made it more accessible than ever, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Popular media, including streaming services and shows like "The Queen's Gambit," have further propelled the game's popularity.
With its official recognition as an esport, chess is poised for even greater growth and engagement.
