Chess Enters the Esports Arena: A Historic Moment at EWC 2025
The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 tournament lineup has a surprising new addition: chess! This ancient game joins the world of esports, and we'll explore why. Chess: The Royal Game Takes Center Stage
Chess Officially Recognized as an Esport
The upcoming 2025 EWC, the world's premier gaming and esports festival, will feature competitive chess for the first time. A significant collaboration between Chess.com, Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the EWCF makes this historic debut possible, bringing the classic game to a wider audience.
EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert expressed his excitement, calling chess "the ultimate strategy game" and highlighting its perfect fit within the EWC's mission to unite global gaming communities.
World champion and top-ranked player GM Magnus Carlsen will serve as an ambassador, aiming to connect chess with a broader audience and inspire future players.
Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: The Setting for Chess' Esports Debut
From July 31st to August 3rd, 2025, Riyadh will host the event, bringing together top chess players globally to compete for a $1.5 million prize pool. Qualification involves ranking highly in the 2025 Champions Chess Tour (CCT) in February and May. The top 12 CCT players, along with four from a "Last Chance Qualifier," will vie for a $300,000 prize pool and a spot in the EWC, marking chess's inaugural esports appearance.
To enhance appeal to esports fans, the 2025 CCT will utilize a new match format. Instead of the traditional 90-minute time control, games will have a 10-minute time limit, with Armageddon tiebreakers.
With roots in ancient India dating back 1500 years, chess has evolved over centuries, becoming a globally popular pastime. Its digital transition via platforms like Chess.com and its subsequent entry into esports have broadened its reach, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Media exposure, including streaming, influencers, and shows like "The Queen's Gambit," have further boosted its popularity.
This official recognition as an esport promises to attract even more players and enthusiasts to the game.
