The Saudi Arabian government recently announced plans for the Esports World Cup as part of its National Gaming and Esports Strategy, signaling a significant step in the region’s efforts to become a key player in the industry. Set to take place in the summer of 2024, the event will offer a record-breaking prize pool and replace the highly acclaimed ‘Gamers8’ event that took place in 2023.
The Esports World Cup Federation has also revealed the lineup of games that will be featured during the tournament. Over an eight-week period, the event will bring together some of the most impressive titles in esports, solidifying Riyadh as the “new home for esports”.
The featured games at the Esports World Cup will include Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Counter-Strike 2, Dota 2, StarCraft II, and Honor of Kings. Notably, Honor of Kings will host a $3 million midseason invitational during the tournament, with twelve teams competing for a spot in the Honor of Kings International Championship later in the year.
The Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, Mohammed bin Salman, emphasized the significance of the Esports World Cup, stating that it aligns with the country’s Vision 2030 objectives by diversifying the economy, promoting tourism, creating new jobs, and offering top-notch entertainment for everyone.
With substantial financial support, the future of the Esports World Cup looks promising. Plans for a cutting-edge esports and gaming hub in Qiddiya were unveiled, showcasing the long-term commitment to the industry’s growth in Saudi Arabia.
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