Chess.com, a popular online platform for chess enthusiasts, has recently been announced as one of the three new publishers for the upcoming Esports Nations Cup (ENC). This exciting development comes as part of a collaboration between major game developers and the Esports World Cup Foundation (EWCF) to organize the first-ever country-versus-country esports competition.
The inclusion of chess in the Esports Nations Cup follows its successful debut at the Esports World Cup (EWC) held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, earlier this year. The EWC saw the world’s top chess players competing for a substantial prize fund of $1.5 million. Due to its immense success, the event is set to return in 2026, promising to be even bigger, better, and more competitive than before.
Chess.com joins MOONTON Games and SNK as one of the newly added publishing partners for the Esports Nations Cup. They will be working alongside existing publishers such as EA, Krafton, Tencent, and Ubisoft to create a premier international stage for national esports teams to showcase their skills. Unlike the EWC, which focused on top clubs, the ENC aims to highlight national teams from regions across the globe.
Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, emphasized the importance of close collaboration with publishers in making the Esports Nations Cup player-centric. By working closely with publishers, the event organizers can ensure that players have the opportunity to represent their countries in the games that define their careers. This approach is expected to activate players worldwide and create a competitive stage that national teams can aspire to for years to come.
The Esports Nations Cup will feature national teams from regions including North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Oceania. Competitions will include both individual and team formats, with qualification processes based on global rankings, regional qualifiers, and wildcard entries to ensure a diverse and representative competitive stage for all participants.
Following its launch in Riyadh in 2026, the ENC will adopt a rotating host model, giving countries around the world the opportunity to host national esports teams and engage with local fans. The event is scheduled to take place every two years, providing a consistent platform for national teams to compete on an international level.
As more details about the Esports Nations Cup are expected to be revealed in the coming weeks, chess enthusiasts and esports fans alike can look forward to an exciting and competitive event that celebrates the spirit of international competition in the world of esports.
The Rise of Chess in Esports
Chess has long been regarded as a game of strategy and intellect, but its recent foray into the world of esports has brought a new level of excitement and competition to the beloved game. With platforms like Chess.com leading the charge, chess enthusiasts now have the opportunity to showcase their skills on a global stage through events like the Esports Nations Cup.
While traditional sports have dominated the world of competitive gaming, chess has carved out its own niche, attracting a dedicated community of players who value the game’s rich history and complexity. The inclusion of chess in prestigious events like the Esports Nations Cup not only elevates the game’s status but also highlights the immense talent and creativity of chess players worldwide.
The Global Reach of Esports
As the Esports Nations Cup brings together national teams from regions spanning the globe, the event not only celebrates the diversity of the esports community but also provides a platform for players from different backgrounds to come together and compete. This international showcase of talent not only fosters camaraderie among players but also promotes cultural exchange and mutual respect.
With countries taking turns hosting the Esports Nations Cup, the event showcases the growing popularity and influence of esports on a global scale. By rotating the host country, the event ensures that fans and players from all corners of the world have the opportunity to participate in and witness the excitement of international competition.
The Future of Chess in Esports
As chess continues to gain traction in the world of esports, the future looks promising for players and fans alike. The Esports Nations Cup serves as a testament to the enduring appeal of chess as a competitive and engaging game, showcasing the strategic brilliance and skill of top players from around the world.
With the support of major publishers and organizations like the Esports World Cup Foundation, chess in esports is poised to reach new heights, attracting a broader audience and further establishing itself as a premier competitive game. As the Esports Nations Cup unfolds in the coming years, chess enthusiasts can expect to witness thrilling matches, fierce competition, and moments that will go down in esports history.
In conclusion, the inclusion of chess in the Esports Nations Cup marks a significant milestone for the game and its dedicated community. With the spotlight firmly on chess as a competitive esports title, players and fans can look forward to an exciting future filled with opportunities to showcase their talent and passion for the game on a global stage.
