As the Asian Games kick off in Hangzhou, ESports is set to make its groundbreaking debut as a medal event, signaling a transformative moment in the world of competitive gaming.
Historic Debut: While ESports was showcased as a demonstration sport in the 2018 Asian Games, this year, it takes center stage with gold medals at stake in seven distinct games, including popular titles like PUBG Mobile, Dota 2, and League of Legends.
Gamer’s Journey: India’s medal contender in Street Fighter V, Mayank Prajapati, reflects on his personal journey with gaming. From sneaking into arcades with just two rupees to play Street Fighter in the late 1990s to representing his nation, his story mirrors the evolution of ESports. Despite initial parental disapproval, Prajapati’s passion for gaming remained unwavering.
Shared Stories: Prajapati’s narrative resonates with many gamers, including South Korea’s Street Fighter V representative, Kim Gwan-woo. Despite their parents’ skepticism, these gamers have persevered, hoping that a medal win might finally earn them the recognition they deserve.
Also Read: Apple to Update iPhone 12 Software in France: Unpacking the Radiation Row
Dominant Forces: Powerhouses like South Korea and host nation China are anticipated to lead the ESports arena during the Games.
Quest for Legitimacy: The inclusion of ESports in the Asian Games is a monumental step towards its acknowledgment as a mainstream sport. Professor Kang of Shingu College, an early Korean professional gamer, believes that ESports is on the brink of being universally recognized as a genuine sport.
Olympic Ambitions: Lokesh Suji of the Asian Electronic Sports Federation views the Asian Games as a pivotal milestone towards the ultimate dream: Olympic inclusion. Although the International Olympic Committee recognized ESports as a sport in 2017, its Olympic debut remains uncertain, primarily due to concerns over the promotion of violence in some games.
Growing Recognition: The Asian Games’ spotlight on ESports is expected to garner more fans, players, and broader acceptance. Sanindhiya Malik, representing India in League of Legends, shared how his achievements in the gaming realm have shifted perceptions among his family and friends.
ESports’ inclusion in the Asian Games is not just a win for the players but also a testament to the evolving landscape of competitive sports. As the lines between traditional sports and ESports blur, the world watches with bated breath, anticipating what the future holds for this dynamic industry.
