Esports Embraces Chess: A Digital Checkmate

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 ranks of esports, marking a significant milestone in its history. Let's explore this unexpected development.

Chess Officially Recognized as an Esport

The world's largest gaming and esports festival, EWC 2025, will feature competitive chess for the first time. This collaboration between Chess.com, Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) aims to introduce this classic strategy game to a wider, more mainstream audience.

EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert enthusiastically described chess as "the mother of all strategy games," highlighting its historical significance, global appeal, and vibrant competitive scene as a perfect fit for the EWC's mission.

World champion and top-ranked player Magnus Carlsen will serve as an ambassador, aiming to connect chess with a broader demographic. He expressed excitement about chess' inclusion alongside other major esports titles, seeing it as a crucial opportunity for growth and inspiring future generations of chess players.

Riyadh 2025: A $1.5 Million Showdown

The EWC 2025 chess competition will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, boasting a substantial $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, along with four from a "Last Chance Qualifier," will compete for a $300,000 prize pool and a coveted spot in the EWC's inaugural chess esports event.

To enhance the appeal to esports fans, the 2025 CCT will feature a modified format. Instead of the traditional 90-minute time control, matches will utilize a 10-minute time limit with no increment. Tiebreakers will be decided by a single Armageddon game.

Chess, originating in ancient India over 1500 years ago, has captivated generations. Its transition to the digital realm via platforms like Chess.com, and its subsequent embrace by the esports community, has broadened its reach significantly, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. The game's popularity has also been boosted by media exposure through streaming, influencers, and shows like "The Queen's Gambit."

With its official recognition as an esport, chess is poised for even greater growth and participation.