Giant screens, fans, Carlsen: Chess at EWC gets louder on the esports stage
In Paris, chess found a louder stage at the Esports World Cup, where giant screens, live crowds, music and esports-style production surrounded the world’s best players. Magnus Carlsen defended his title, while India’s Arjun Erigaisi and Nihal Sarin reached the top eight. Through players, fans and organisers, this reported feature examines how chess is adapting to esports without changing the game…
A family of four attended the Esports World Cup (EWC) chess matches in Paris, with 11-year-old Marius Carlsen taking home a signed autograph from Magnus Carlsen. Giant screens, music, commentary, and noise-cancelling headphones surrounded the chess arena, providing a lively atmosphere for all attendees. Carlsen successfully defended his title by defeating 19-year-old Denis Lazavik in the final, earning USD 250,000 and 1,000 Club Championship points.
Other top performers included India's Arjun Erigaisi and Nihal Sarin, who secured top 8 positions and USD 72,500 each, and Hikaru Nakamura, who placed third with USD 145,000. The event showcased a shift in how chess is experienced, with added bells and whistles compared to traditional online play. Organizers aim to bring the excitement and energy of esports to the chess world, creating a more engaging experience for viewers.
Written by urgent.news from Times of India's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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