Chess is an eSport Now

Chess Enters the Esports Arena: A Historic Moment at EWC 2025

The Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 tournament has made a surprising, yet exciting, announcement: chess, the ancient game of strategy, is officially joining the roster of esports! This groundbreaking decision brings a centuries-old pastime into the modern world of competitive gaming.

Chess Takes Center Stage

A significant partnership between Chess.com, chess Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) has made this historic inclusion possible. For the first time, competitive chess will be a featured event at the EWC, the world's largest gaming and esports festival, exposing this classic game to a vastly expanded audience.

EWCF CEO Ralf Reichert expressed his enthusiasm, referring to chess as "the mother of all strategy games." He highlighted chess's global appeal and vibrant competitive scene as a perfect fit for the EWC's mission to unite gaming communities worldwide.

World champion and top-ranked player Magnus Carlsen will serve as an ambassador, aiming to connect chess with a broader demographic. He stated his excitement about chess joining the EWC, seeing it as a pivotal opportunity to introduce the game to new players and inspire future generations.

Riyadh Hosts the Chess Esports Debut

The EWC 2025 will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, from July 31st to August 3rd, featuring a $1.5 million prize pool. To qualify, players must compete 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 coveted spot in the inaugural chess esports competition.

To enhance the appeal to esports fans, the 2025 CCT will utilize a faster, more dynamic format. Matches will feature a 10-minute time control with no increment, a departure from traditional longer time controls. Tiebreakers will be decided by a single Armageddon game.

Chess, with roots tracing back 1500 years to ancient India, has evolved and captivated audiences for centuries. Its digital transition, particularly through platforms like Chess.com, has broadened its reach, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Further boosted by streaming, influencers, and popular media like "The Queen's Gambit," chess is now poised for even greater growth as an officially recognized esport. This landmark event promises to attract a new wave of players and enthusiasts to the game.