Chess Makes its Esports Debut at the 2025 Esports World Cup!
The ancient game of chess is making history! Get ready for a surprising addition to the 2025 Esports World Cup (EWC) – chess! This thousand-year-old strategy game is officially entering the esports world, and here's why.
Chess: A New Contender in the EWC 2025
The EWC, the world's premier gaming and esports festival, is partnering with Chess.com, chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) to bring competitive chess to the global stage for the first time. This collaboration aims to introduce the classic game to a wider audience and showcase its vibrant competitive scene.
EWCF CEO, Ralf Reichert, described chess as "the mother of all strategy games," emphasizing its perfect fit within the EWC's mission to unite popular games and their communities.
Retired world champion and current world number one, GM Magnus Carlsen, will serve as an ambassador, aiming to connect chess with a new generation of players. He expressed his excitement about chess joining the biggest names in esports, seeing this partnership as a significant opportunity for the game's growth.
Riyadh 2025: A $1.5 Million Showdown
The EWC will be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, 2025. Top chess players from around the world will compete for a massive $1.5 million prize pool. Qualification will be through the 2025 Champions Chess Tour (CCT) in February and May. The top 12 CCT players, along with four from a "Last Chance Qualifier," will battle for a $300,000 prize pool and a coveted spot in the EWC, marking chess's historic esports debut.
To engage a broader esports audience, the 2025 CCT will feature a new, faster format. Matches will use a 10-minute time control with no increment, followed by an Armageddon tiebreaker if necessary.
From its ancient Indian origins 1500 years ago to its modern digital presence on platforms like Chess.com, chess has captivated audiences for centuries. The game's accessibility has increased dramatically through digital platforms, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. The rise of streaming, influencers, and shows like "The Queen's Gambit" have further boosted its popularity. Now, its official recognition as an esport promises to attract even more players and fans.
