Chess Enters the Esports Arena: A Historic First at EWC 2025
The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 tournament is making waves with an unexpected addition to its lineup: chess! This ancient game joins the ranks of esports, a move that's generating considerable excitement.
Chess Takes Center Stage at the EWC
A landmark 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 unprecedented inclusion aims to introduce the classic strategy game to a broader, more mainstream audience.
EWCF CEO, Ralf Reichert, expressed his enthusiasm, hailing chess as "the mother of all strategy games." He emphasized that chess's rich history, global appeal, and vibrant competitive scene align perfectly with the EWC's mission to unite popular games and their passionate communities.
Magnus Carlsen, retired world champion and current world number one, will serve as an ambassador, bridging the gap between chess and the wider esports community. He expressed his excitement about chess's inclusion, highlighting the opportunity to expand the game's reach and inspire a new generation of players.
Riyadh Hosts the Chess Esports Debut
From July 31st to August 3rd, 2025, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will host the EWC, featuring a $1.5 million prize pool. Qualification will be determined through the 2025 Champions Chess Tour (CCT), held in February and May. The top 12 CCT players, plus four from a "Last Chance Qualifier," will compete for a $300,000 prize pool and a spot in the EWC, marking chess's momentous esports debut.
To enhance the appeal to esports fans, the 2025 CCT will feature a revised match format. Instead of the traditional 90-minute time control, games will use a 10-minute time limit with no increment. Tiebreakers will be decided by a single Armageddon game.
With roots tracing back 1500 years to ancient India, chess has endured through the ages, evolving into a globally popular pastime. Its transition to the digital realm, facilitated by platforms like Chess.com, and its subsequent rise in esports have broadened its accessibility, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The game's popularity has been further boosted by streaming platforms, influencers, and shows such as "The Queen's Gambit."
This official recognition as an esport promises to attract even more players and enthusiasts to the game.
