Overwatch 2 has been announced as a featured title for the upcoming Esports World Cup this summer in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
The game is the latest in a string of high-profile titles announced for the World Cup. The Esports World Cup Foundation did not share further details about tournament formats or the prize pool for the event.
Overwatch 2’s esports ecosystem has undergone major developments over the first few months of 2024. After the Overwatch League was shut down late in 2023, the game’s esports ecosystem was left in limbo. However, a partnership between the ESL FACEIT Group and Activision Blizzard, saw the two entities launch a new tournament series called Overwatch Champions Series.
Whilst little details about the Esports World Cup event have been revealed, a press release noted that the new Overwatch Champions Series will serve as an opportunity to qualify for the Esports World Cup.
The move to include Overwatch 2 in the Esports World Cup is somewhat anticipated. Despite the Champions Series only officially kicking off in North America and EMEA just a few days ago, the series is run by Saudi Arabian government-backed esports tournament conglomerate ESL FACIT Group.
Moreover, its inclusion in the Esports World Cup may be a result of game’s popularity across the world, and a large number of renowned esports brands that took part in the Overwatch League in the past.
The Esports World Cup will take place over the summer in Saudi Arabia and will feature a large roster of games. The inclusion of Overwatch 2 follows the news of Rainbow Six Siege, PUBG, PUBG MOBILE and Garena Free Fire also being included in the tournament.
The CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation, Ralf Reichert, commented on the new games being added: “First-person and tactical shooters are a cornerstone of gaming and esports and played by billions internationally. We’re bringing together all the best games, including these titles and the rest of our competitions, to connect an unprecedented variety of global communities. We’re excited to have them be a part of this first-of-its-kind event.”
