eSports Revolution: Chess Emerges as Latest Contender!

Chess Enters the Esports Arena: A Historic First 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, often called "The Game of Kings," will debut in the world's largest gaming and esports festival.

Chess Takes Center Stage

This groundbreaking inclusion is the result of a significant partnership between Chess.com, chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF). The collaboration aims to introduce this classic strategy game to a broader, more modern audience.

EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert expressed his excitement, calling chess "the mother of all strategy games." He emphasized that chess's rich history, global appeal, and vibrant competitive scene perfectly align with the EWC's mission to unite popular games and their communities.

World champion and top-ranked player Magnus Carlsen will serve as an ambassador, aiming to connect chess with a wider audience. He stated, "This partnership is an incredible opportunity to grow the game, introducing chess to new audiences and inspiring the next generation of players."

Riyadh 2025: A $1.5 Million Showdown

The EWC 2025 event, taking place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, boasts a $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 "Last Chance Qualifier" winners, will compete for a $300,000 prize pool and a coveted spot in the EWC, marking chess's historic esports debut.

To enhance appeal to esports fans, the 2025 CCT will feature a new, faster format. Matches will use a 10-minute time control with no increment, replacing the traditional 90-minute format. Tiebreakers will be decided by a single Armageddon game.

Chess, originating in ancient India over 1500 years ago, has captivated generations. Its digital adaptation, facilitated by platforms like Chess.com, has broadened its reach, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further boosted by streaming platforms, influencers, and shows like "The Queen's Gambit," chess is now poised for even greater global recognition as an official esport.