Esports Planet

Tag: EWC

  • Esports World Cup 2026 opening ceremony fails to impress

    Esports World Cup 2026 opening ceremony fails to impress

    “At EWC, nothing is granted — everything is earned.” That line perfectly sums up how fierce the competition is this year. Around 200 clubs from 100 countries with 2000 players have jumped in to test their luck and skill on the grand stage of the Esports World Cup 2026 for $75M prize pool.

    Some people say the opening ceremony should happen on the same day the event starts, but that wasn’t the case here. The competitions kicked off on July 6, while the ceremony took place on July 8.

    Honestly, the ceremony wasn’t as spectacular as one might expect from the city of fashion, but still, it managed to make its mark in this short span of just three months of preparation. Hats off to the organizers by the way.

    Aya Nakamura at ewc paris 2026

    Official promotional poster for the Esports World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony featuring DJ Snake and Aya Nakamura.
    The official broadcast banner for the Esports World Cup 2026 Opening Ceremony in Paris. (Image Source: YouTube/@ewc)

    French stars Theodora, DJ Snake, Aya Nakamura, and Mosimann set the stage on fire. Personally, Aya Nakamura’s song was pleasing to the ears, and DJ Snake’s performance was solid too. But the only moment that truly connected their acts to esports was Theodora perched high on the STC (Saudi Telecom Company) chair — a sponsor symbol of the Esports World Cup 2026.

    The ceremony felt like it was missing a real story about esports — no clear thread showing how the Esports World Cup grew from Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, to Paris just two years after its inception. It also failed to connect the journeys of the players who came from all over the world. People are already pointing out how awkward the moment was when the Team Falcons CEO placed the trophy on its table — almost like it hadn’t been rehearsed.

    Read Also: Where stands Pakistan in the world of Esports?

    Trophy was Stunning

    Still, I couldn’t take my eyes off that trophy. It was stunning — polished, dazzling, with a silhouette and size that looked perfect in the hands of future champions. For a moment, I dreamed of lifting it myself… but then reality hit: its price is far too heavy for someone like me.

    One more thing I want to talk about is the venue of the Esports World Cup. The La Défense Arena, a world‑class stadium built in 2017 with a capacity of 40,000 spectators, is truly a treat for the players. Set right beside the Seine River, it offers a breathtaking view — with the Eiffel Tower visible on one side and the river flowing on the other. From above, the arena looks like the perfect fusion of Paris’s iconic skyline and modern esports spectacle.

    True meaning of EWC 26 Paris Theme

    All criticism aside, I learned that the theme of the ceremony was not unplanned or hastily put together — it was deliberate. By inviting mainstream performers and downplaying the stories of esports players, the EWC indicated that esports is not limited to Riyadh, Paris, or hardcore fans. Instead, it is meant for a global audience, reaching people everywhere, even those outside the esports community.

    Ceremony was designed to serve the global audiences

    The ceremony wasn’t designed to tell a single grand narrative or to boast about the hierarchy of giant sponsors. Its real purpose was to create short‑lived, shareable moments — clips and highlights tailored for broadcasters, sponsors, and global audiences. Perhaps it is true; only time will reveal the true meaning of this ceremony when the tournaments of 24 games take place.

    FIFA World Cup 2026 empty stadiums

    I also noticed that the stadium was filled with esports enthusiasts, which reminded me of the FIFA World Cup stadiums this year that often had sparse attendance due to high ticket prices. This proves a lot and indicates how the Esports World Cup serves as a gateway to future sports.

    Why go to Paris from riyadh?

    The Esports World Cup was originally planned to be held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia in 2026, but due to security concerns the event was relocated to Paris. This sudden shift raised worries among players worldwide, as France’s visa policies are known to be stricter for international entrants. Despite the challenges, the move to Paris ensured the tournament could go ahead safely, though many teams had to navigate extra hurdles to secure their participation.

    Key system in EWC is quite eerie, to be honest

    The key system at the Esports World Cup is both eerie and symbolic. Champions proudly place their name‑engraved keys on the totem, while those who fall short see their keys crushed beneath it — a reminder of how close they came to glory. In my view, this serves two powerful purposes.

    First, it can feel devastating: reaching the highest level of competition only to lose, and then watching your name symbolically broken beneath the totem. That pain cuts deep.

    Second, it also immortalizes you within the EWC community. Even if your key is crushed, your name remains locked into the history of the event. For many, that lasting mark becomes motivation — a drive to return stronger next year, determined to lift the trophy and rewrite their legacy.

  • Arslan Ash & Atif Butt: Tekken Giants from Pakistan

    Arslan Ash & Atif Butt: Tekken Giants from Pakistan

    Both are Champions, both are Friends and both are Pakistanis.

    Tekken’s journey in the FGC feels incomplete without the contributions of Pakistani players and if you know the game, then you have definitely heard the names Arslan ash and Atif butt.

    Arslan Ash, a seven-time EVO champion and Tekken World Tour 2023 winner, is currently representing Twisted Minds. Atif Butt, the Tekken World Tour 2022 champion and IESF World Champion 2023, now plays under Team Falcons. Both players hail from Pakistan and began their journeys in Lahore’s arcade scene, rising from local competition to become global icons of the Tekken community.

    screenshot of Arslan Ash & Atif Butt from facebook

    Who is Arslan Ash?

    Arslan Ash Siddique is a Lahori who began playing Tekken in his early childhood. From the start, Arslan’s dominance was clear; he defeated anyone who challenged him in local arcades. With his friends, including Atif, he declared: “My game is beyond limits. I want to compete with the legends of Tekken like Knee and Ulsan, and I know I will defeat them.” At the time, few believed him.

    Yet his determination, consistency, and willingness to take risks pushed him forward. Borrowing money, relying on friends’ support, and carrying his mother’s prayers, Arslan traveled to Oman for his first international competition and amazingly won.

    From that moment, he never looked back. He went on to defeat South Korea’s legendary players like Knee, Ulsan, and LowHigh in multiple tournaments, establishing himself as nearly invincible on the global stage.

    Who is Atif Butt?

    “People know me as the Tekken World Tour Champion, Atif Butt!” That’s how Atif Ijaz Butt introduces himself to those unfamiliar with his legacy. Belongs to Gujranwala, a city in Punjab, Pakistan, Atif has been playing Tekken and other fighting games since 2005. His journey from local competitions to becoming a global champion reflects years of dedication, skill, and an unbreakable passion for the fighting game community.

    Gameplay

    Arslan’s Style

    Arslan Ash’s style is often described as calm and lowkey. He plays with his opponents’ nerves, keeping his composure under the pressure of finals and large crowds. Rather than locking into one character, he experiments and switches until he finds the one that feels most natural, focusing on how the character evolves in his hands. This adaptability makes him unpredictable and hard to counter.

    Interestingly, he has now become strongly associated with Nina, a character he has used to secure more victories than anyone else, further cementing his reputation as one of Tekken’s most versatile champions.

    Atif’s Style

    Atif Butt’s style is aggressive and fearless. He overwhelms opponents with sharp moves and lightning-fast actions, often turning his enemy’s character into pulp under relentless pressure. He frequently uses characters like Anna, Jin, and Dragunov to deliver this punishing style.

    Known as a fearsome competitor, Atif thrives on momentum; once he gains control, he dismantles his rivals with speed and precision. This intensity, combined with his ability to sustain pressure throughout a match, makes him one of the most dangerous and dominant players in the Tekken scene.

    Arslan Ash – Career Highlights

    • 7× EVO Champion
      • EVO Japan 2019 defeated Alexandre Laverez from Philippines
      • EVO USA 2019 defeated Bae “Knee” Jae-Min
      • EVO 2023, 2024, 2025 (Tekken 7 & Tekken 8)
      • Multiple EVO titles across regions
    • Tekken World Tour Champion 2023
      • Defeated the world’s best, including legends from South Korea, in finals, defeated CBM
    • Other Major Wins
      • CEO 2021 Champion
      • Combo Breaker titles
      • Multiple regional and invitational victories
    • Recognition
    • At the Esports World Cup 2025, Arslan Ash secured 14th position and earned $20,000 in prize money.

    Atif Butt – Career Highlights

    • Tekken World Tour Champion 2022
      • Defeated JeonDDing in the grand finals to claim the world title.
    • IESF World Champion 2023
      • Represented Pakistan and secured victory on the global stage.
    • Tokyo Tekken Masters 2019 Winner
      • Shocked the international scene by defeating top Japanese and Korean players with Akuma.
    • CEO 2025 Tekken 8 Champion
      • Dominated the competition with his aggressive style and versatile character pool defeating Ulsan in the Finals.
    • Other Notable Wins
      • Consistent victories against elite players such as Knee, Ulsan, and Chikurin in various tournaments.
      • Helped Pakistan win the Gamers8 Tekken Nations Cup 2024, defeating South Korea alongside Arslan Ash and Khan.
    • Atif Butt finished 12th at the Esports World Cup 2025, two ranks above Arslan Ash, and took home $27,500 in prize money.

    Their Friendship

    screenshot of Arslan Ash, Atif Butt and Ulsan from facebook page of Arslan Ash

    Arslan Ash and Atif Butt have risen as nation’s brightest Tekken stars. Their journeys, built on modest beginnings and relentless dedication (practicing together for continuous 10 to 12 hours or more for the event), have carried them to international fame since 2019. Training side by side and traveling together, their bond is reflected both in competition and beyond.

    Though they often face each other as fierce rivals, their friendship endures; victories are celebrated with warm embraces, reminding the world that they are not just competitors, but brothers in the journey. As Arslan said on his X account after winning EVO Championship against Atif in 2024: ‘Despite the rivalry, I believe we can both win more tournaments together.’

    As their careers continue to unfold, one thing is certain: their friendship and passion will keep inspiring the next generation of esports champions. Yup! Absolutely.

  • 4Thrives has made a new update

    4Thrives has made a new update

    Pakistan’s premier PUBG Mobile team, 4Thrives, has confirmed a major roster change following its landmark performance at the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025. The team earned $77,000 in the group stage and $80,000 in the finals, finishing among the top eight teams worldwide with total winnings of $157,000.

    International esports commentator Maximillian Barraud praised 4Thrives as “the best Pakistani team of all times,” highlighting their rise on the global stage.

    Mohammad Huzaifa, new in-game leader of Pakistan’s 4Thrives PUBG Mobile team, screenshot from Instagram

    Looking ahead to 2026, 4Thrives has announced that Cairo (Niash Hassan), the team’s entry fragger, has departed to join Guts & Glory. In his place, the team has recruited Mohammad Huzaifa, formerly of AS i8 Esports, who is now serving as the new in-game leader (IGL).

    This strategic move signals 4Thrives’ ambition to build on its international success and continue elevating Pakistan’s presence in global esports.

    Read More: DRX PUBG announces new line up, important players depart

  • 3 Best Fighting Games to Earn Big Money

    3 Best Fighting Games to Earn Big Money

    While battle royale titles still dominate the esports stage, other genres are gradually making their mark. Fighting games, in particular, are growing in popularity, evolving with each release, and pushing closer to the top tier of competitive play. In this article, we’ll look at Three fighting games that are not only thrilling to watch and play but also rewarding their competitors with impressive prize pools.

    1. Street Fighter 6

    Street Fighter 6 is one of the top fighting games today. Once you start playing, it’s hard to stop. Released by Capcom in June 2023, it holds a strong 9/10 rating on Steam and 4.3/5 on PlayStation. Fans on Reddit praise it as one of the best Street Fighter titles ever, securing its place among the greatest fighting games.

    “Getting to play matches is so fast and practical, it makes the experience addicting.”

    “It’s been recognized as one of the best street fighter games since launch.”

    “I tried playing many fighting games in the past and dropped all of them after a short time. I have been playing SF6 nonstop since day 1 and I’ll probably keep going until the end of its lifecycle. Not only the best SF game, but one of the best games ever in general.”

    Street Fighter began as an arcade classic and has now reached its seventh major entry with Street Fighter 6. The game is available across Xbox, PlayStation 4 and 5, arcade machines, and Windows, making it accessible to players everywhere. By November 2025, it had already sold over 6 million units worldwide.

    Read More: Which One is Copy? PUBG or Free Fire? – Esports Planet

    Street Fighter 6 in EWC

    The Esports World Cup (EWC) has now added Street Fighter 6 to its lineup of major games. In this event, 48 players went head‑to‑head, all aiming for a share of the massive $1,000,000 prize pool.

    • From China, Xiao Hai came out on top, winning the championship and taking home $250,000.
    • Blaz finished second and earned $130,000.
    • Leshar secured third place with $75,000.
    • Angry Bird claimed fourth place, walking away with $45,000.

    What set this tournament apart was that every participant received prize money, ensuring that all 48 competitors went home with earnings. The prize distribution highlighted EWC’s approach to rewarding players across different ranks. With Street Fighter 6 now included in the event, the game continues to establish its presence within the wider esports landscape.

    Capcom Cup, Annual Fighting Tournament

    The Capcom Cup began in 2013, originally focusing on the Street Fighter series. In 2025, the tournament was held in Tokyo, Japan, with a total prize pool of $1,282,000. Japanese player Kakeru secured first place, winning the championship title along with $1 Million in prize money.

    fighting game image

    2. Tekken 8

    The Tekken series was first introduced in December 1994, developed by the legendary Japanese studio Namco. Originally released as an arcade title, it was quickly ported to the PlayStation in 1995, marking the beginning of its global dominance.

    From the very start, Tekken captured the imagination of players worldwide. In Japan, it sold an impressive 942,000 units, making it the fourth highest‑grossing arcade game of 1995. Across the United States, it achieved similar acclaim, ranking among the top five arcade titles with 786,556 units sold.

    Tekken grew into a well‑known name in gaming culture, with each release refining its gameplay and stories. In January 2024, the series continued with Tekken 8, confirming its strong place in competitive gaming and ongoing popularity with fans worldwide.

    Tekken 8 arrival in EWC

    The Esports World Cup (EWC) is one of the biggest events in competitive gaming. In 2025, the tournament added Tekken 8 to its lineup, drawing 32 players to compete for a prize pool of $1 million.

    The matches were held in Riyadh from August 13 to 16, 2025, and the competition was dominated by South Korean players, who secured all of the top five positions. ULSAN claimed the championship title and took home $250,000. The runner‑up earned $130,000, with $70,000 awarded for third, $50,000 for fourth, and $37,500 for fifth.

    Tekken World Tour (TWT)

    Tekken organizes its own global tournament, known as the Tekken World Tour (TWT), where players can showcase their skills on an international stage. This Tekken World Tour (TWT) is an annual international tournament organized by Bandai Namco, first introduced in 2017. It has since become a consistent fixture in the competitive fighting game calendar.

    The prize distribution is as follows:

    • First place: $100,000
    • Second place: $60,000
    • Third place: $30,000
    • Fourth place: $15,000
    • Remaining 33 participants: All receive prize money, with the lowest tier set at $1,000

    The 2026 edition of the Tekken World Tour will be held from January 29 to February 1, 2026, featuring four days of competitive matches among top players from around the world.

    It means that Tekken personal tournaments are also worth considering. Participation in these events can provide valuable experience and open up future opportunities.

    3. Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves

    Fatal Fury is a long‑running fighting game series developed by SNK in Japan. The franchise began in 1991 as an arcade title and became known for its distinctive characters, moves, and battle system. Over the years, it has built a loyal following, especially among players who remember its early arcade roots.

    In 2025, the seventh installment of the series was released. The game has received positive reviews, with a rating of 9/10 on Steam and 4.4/5 on PlayStation. It is available on Xbox, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Windows.

    Fatal Fury at the EWC 2025

    Fatal Fury, developed by SNK, secured a spot in the Esports World Cup (EWC) 2025 held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The tournament offered a $1 million prize pool, underscoring the game’s growing relevance in modern competitive play.

    The event featured top players from around the world. In the grand finals, Goichi “GO1” Kishida defeated Xiaohai to win the championship. As the winner, GO1 received $300,000 from the prize pool along with competitive points.

    Xiaohai from China finished as runner‑up and received $155,000.

    DarkAngel earned $100,000 for third place.

    Mok received $65,000 for fourth place.

    Prize money was also distributed among the remaining participants, with amounts awarded down to the 16th place, where players received $20,000.

    Last Words

    Esports is not only about battle royale games, since those don’t fit everyone’s style. Fighting games are also a good option because they are straightforward, competitive, and can help players build a future in gaming.

    Similar Reads:

    Fortnite’s Donut Storm is the Most Fun Part of Chapter 6 – Esports Planet

    5 POINTLESS & Unnecessary items in PUBG (you will agree) – Esports Planet

  • Women gamer’s Contribution in the Esports World

    Women gamer’s Contribution in the Esports World

    Why do we hardly know women’s names in esports rosters? Is it because women have little interest in competitive gaming, or are they simply not being acknowledged?

    Discover how female gamers are transforming esports, explore global teams, top streamers, tournament wins, and the future of women in competitive gaming in this article.

    The Rise of Women in Esports

    Women are definitely showing up on the esports world stage, but their numbers are still far too low. Even so, let me highlight a few names who are making waves and changing the tide.

    StarCraft is a notoriously tough game, not everyone can lay a finger on it, and you know when women choose a path it is not easy one at all. As a teenager growing up in Kingston, Ontario, Sasha Hostyn began her journey into competitive StarCraft II, eventually becoming one of the most accomplished women in esports.

    By 2018, Sasha, now known globally as “Scarlett,” would make history by winning IEM PyeongChang against South Korean pro- Kim “sOs” Yoo Jin, becoming the first woman to claim a major title in one of esports’ most demanding strategy games.

    Scarlett’s victory proves that whether it’s tackling everyday challenges or mastering one of the toughest games in the world, gender is not a barrier. With critical thinking, sharp skills, and unwavering determination, anyone can rise to the top.

    Victory is for Anyone who is BEST

    Girls earn accolades when they prove themselves among the best. The Terror Queens of Myanmar secured 3rd place at the Esports World Cup 2025 in Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, taking home a $50,000 prize and capturing attention from around the world.

    In France, Team Vitality’s female squad swept the finals 4–0, taking home $150,000 and proving that European women can compete at the very highest level.

    These weren’t isolated stories. From LATAM’s DreamMax Girls to WAOW GG Esports from Africa, slowly but steadily they will definitely reach the top.

    Skill Over Stereotypes

    copilot 20250912 104513

    Despite making up 46% of the global gaming population, women represent only 8% of professional esports players. The gap isn’t due to lack of talent, it’s systemic. Many female players face harassment, underrepresentation, and limited access to sponsorships. Yet they persist.

    Take Li “Liooon” Xiaomeng, who became the first woman to win the Hearthstone Global Finals. After winning the title, she said,

    “I want to say for all the girls out there who have a dream for Esports competition, for glory, if you want to do it and you believe in yourself, you should just forget your gender and go for it.”

    In VALORANT, players like Melanie “meL” Capone and Alexis “alexis” Guarrasi have each made over $130,000 by leading their teams in tough Game Changers tournaments. Their success shows that tactical shooter games aren’t just for guys, these women are proving they can compete also.

    Streaming as a Stage

    While some women battle in tournaments, others build empires on platforms like Twitch. Pokimane, with over 9 million followers, has become one of the most recognizable faces in gaming. Her streams blend gameplay, commentary, and community, showing that influence in esports isn’t limited to the scoreboard.

    Others like Loeya, KittyPlays, and AriGameplays have carved out niches in Fortnite, PUBG, and GTA V, attracting millions of fans and lucrative sponsorships. These women are entrepreneurs, entertainers, and cultural icons all at the same time.

    The EWC 2025: A Turning Point

    The Mobile Legends: Bang Bang Women’s Invitational at EWC 2025 was a classic tournament. With 16 teams from regions including Türkiye, Mongolia, China, and Africa, it showcased the global reach of female esports.

    Team NameCountry/RegionPlacementPrize Won
    Team VitalityFrance 🇫🇷1st Place$150,000
    Gaimin GladiatorsUSA 🇺🇸2nd Place$90,000
    Terror QueensMyanmar 🇲🇲3rd Place$50,000
    WAOW GG EsportsAfrica Top 16$10,000

    For many of these players, it was their first time playing on a big international stage. For the fans watching, it felt like a sneak peek into the future of esports.

    Sponsors Are Watching

    Many sponsors are getting involved in women’s esports and it’s not just to be seen. Female teams bring loyal fans, new audiences and real stories that people connect with. These players stand for things that matter strength, creativity, and determination. That’s exactly the kind of energy brands want to support.

    What Comes Next

    The path forward needs more advancement. Mixed-gender competitions, better funding, and safer online spaces are essential. Initiatives like VCT Game Changers, ESL Impact, and the GirlGamer Festival are laying the groundwork.

    And as more girls see players like Scarlett, Liooon, and the Terror Queens succeed, they’ll know that esports is a career for them also.

    Conclusion: Pioneers in Esports

    These women aren’t just showing up, they’re actually setting new standards. From Scarlett’s strategic dominance in StarCraft to Team Vitality’s clean sweep in the finals, their performances speak for themselves: they’ve earned their place.

    The conversation isn’t about whether women can compete with men, they’ve already proven that. The real challenge is whether the industry and its audiences are ready to recognize and support them fully.

    For Similar Read:

    Is It Just a Game? The Truth Behind Esports Obsession – Esports Planet

    Why PUBG Mobile, Free Fire & COD Mobile Were Banned in These Countries? – Esports Planet

  • 3 Mobile games with the Biggest Prize Pool

    3 Mobile games with the Biggest Prize Pool

    Prize pools worth millions have transformed three mobile titles—PUBG Mobile, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, and Honor of Kings—from simple time-pass games into global esports giants. What began as casual matches on tiny screens has evolved into roaring stadiums, record-breaking tournaments, and players rising to international stardom.

    These games didn’t just grow—they shattered expectations. Their tournaments—PMGC, MSC, and KWC—proved that mobile esports aren’t just real… they’re revolutionary.

    If you are interested to know then dive deep with us!

    games with biggest prize pool in tournament (1)

    Back Story

    Around 2016–2018, the mainstream esports world was dominated by PC and console titles like CS: GO, Dota 2, League of Legends, and Call of Duty. Mobile games were often seen as casual distractions, not serious competitive platforms. Even within gaming communities, mobile players were sometimes mocked as “not real gamers.”

    Here’s what that dismissal looked like:

    • Esports gatekeeping: Many tournament organizers and sponsors focused only on PC/console titles, assuming mobile games lacked depth or skill.
    • Tech limitations: Earlier mobile devices couldn’t support high-performance gaming, so mobile esports were seen as low-tier.
    • Regional bias: Western markets didn’t embrace mobile esports early on, while Asia and Latin America quietly built massive player bases.
    • Community skepticism: Forums and Reddit threads often questioned whether mobile games could ever be “legit esports.”

    But then came the turning point—massive downloads, high-skill gameplay, and millions of viewers. PUBG Mobile, Mobile Legends, and Honor of Kings flipped the narrative. Their tournaments proved that mobile esports could be just as intense, strategic, and culturally powerful as any PC title.

    Let me tell you how these three mobile gaming spectacles—PUBG Mobile’s World Championships, Mobile Legends’ Southeast Asia Cup (MSC), and Honor of Kings’ World Champion Cup (KWC)—grew from humble beginnings into events with jaw-dropping prize pools, mass appeal, and real‐world fame.

    PUBG Mobile World Championships

    In early 2019, PUBG Mobile quietly rolled out its first global tournaments. Back then, a few passionate pro teams battled for bragging rights and a modest six-figure purse. But underneath the scenes, PUBG’s maker, Krafton, spotted a gold mine: more than a billion downloads, millions playing every day, and live streams drawing tens of thousands.

    By the 2021 Global Championship, Krafton teamed up with giant sponsors—car makers, energy drinks, tech brands—injecting a record $6 million into the prize pool. Suddenly, professional PUBG Mobile players were earning more than many PC esports pros. Viewers swelled into the tens of millions, and major sports channels in South Korea and India even ran highlight reels on TV. When the dust settled, PUBG Mobile had cemented itself as the biggest mobile-only esport on earth.

    Mobile Legends: Southeast Asia Cup (MSC)

    Back in 2017, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang was just one of many mobile MOBA experiments. But in Southeast Asia—Malaysia, Indonesia, the Philippines—the game exploded. Fans packed internet cafés and stadiums alike to cheer on local heroes. Seeing this passion, developer Moonton launched the MSC in 2018 with a $100,000 prize pool.

    Year after year, the MSC prize grew—half a million, then three-quarters, then crossing the $1 million mark by 2023. Why? Because Southeast Asia’s mobile-gaming community rallied behind it: celebrities streamed it on social media, Telco companies sponsored local qualifiers, and government sports bodies even included it in national e-games festivals. Today MSC finals fill 10,000-seat arenas, trend on Twitter region-wide, and have turned school-yard prodigies into social media stars overnight.

    Honor of Kings: World Champion Cup (KWC)

    Right next door in China, Tencent’s Honor of Kings quietly set daily active user records that rival Facebook. In 2019, its first international showdown—the World Champion Cup (KWC)—offered a prize pool of ¥10 million (around $1.5 million USD). But that was just the beginning. By 2022, the newly branded International Championship raised the stakes to a staggering $10 million USD, making it the richest mobile esports tournament in history. With viewership soaring across platforms like Bilibili and Douyin, Honor of Kings proved it wasn’t just a game—it was a national spectacle.

    Why so rich? Honor of Kings was more than a game—it became a cultural icon. University esports leagues embraced its logo, and Chinese sports commissions granted pro players athletic status for international travel. The KWC finale streamed across platforms like Bilibili, Douyin, and national TV, with viewership estimates soaring past 100 million. Winning the KWC is now seen as a national achievement—celebrated with the same pride as Olympic gold in parts of China.

    Why Such Massive Prize Pools?

    • Massive Player Bases: Each title boasts hundreds of millions of installs and millions of daily users.
    • Developer Investment: Tencent and Krafton treat these games like national sports, pouring in sponsor deals and broadcast rights.
    • Regional Passion: In China and Southeast Asia, mobile gaming is mainstream leisure—local celebs, telcos, even schools jump on board.
    • Media & Sponsors: From car makers and beverage brands to national TV networks, everyone wants a piece of the explosive mobile-esports boom.

    These factors combined to turn once-small contests into multimillion-dollar spectacles. And with every new season, more eyes tune in, more brands buy in, and the winner’s circle becomes even sweeter—proof that mobile esports have truly gone global.

    What’s next?

    Beyond prize money, these series are carving paths to stadium shows, franchised leagues, and even talks with traditional sports bodies. Soon, we’ll see mobile-esports athletes honored alongside cricket legends and football stars—another sign that the mobile revolution is just beginning.

    For More Similar Reads:

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    4Thrives: Pakistan’s First-ever PUBG mobile team to reach EWC – Esports Planet

  • 4Thrives Esports Pakistan: Historic Trailblazers at the World Cup

    4Thrives Esports Pakistan: Historic Trailblazers at the World Cup

    In August 2025, under the blazing lights of Riyadh’s esports arena, EWC with the biggest and highest prize pool was Helding up and five young men from Pakistan competed side by side, carrying the hopes of a growing gaming community. 4Thrives Esports, a self-managed PUBG Mobile team with no sponsors and no bootcamp, had made it to the Grand Finals of the PUBG Mobile World Cup (PMWC). And they didn’t just show up—they finished 7th out of 24 global teams, earning $157,000 USD and rewriting the story of Pakistani esports.

    participating in an esport tournament (1)

    This wasn’t just a tournament. It was a test of grit, loyalty, and leadership. And at the heart of it all stood Falak Sher, the team’s captain and owner, whose quiet resolve became the backbone of their success.

    From Raw Beginnings to Riyadh’s Grand Stage

    4Thrives Esports was formed on December 1, 2024, not in a corporate office or gaming house—but through WhatsApp calls, shared dreams, and relentless practice. Their manager, Usman “Shaheen” Tariq, handpicked players based on synergy, not fame. The final lineup:

    • Falak Sher “FALAK” – Captain & Owner
    • Sameer “Nocki” Khan – Support
    • Hasnain “T24OP” Rehman – Scout
    • Niash “CAIRO” Hassan – Sniper
    • Shayan “IQ” Asad – IGL
    • Usman “Shaheen” Tariq – Manager & Analyst

    Their first major breakthrough came at PMSL Central & South Asia Spring 2025, where they placed 3rd, earning $18,750 USD and a direct slot in PMWC. But it was their group stage performance at PMWC that stunned the world:

    • 2nd overall ranking
    • 111 kills
    • 65 eliminations
    • 2 Chicken Dinners

    They became the first Pakistani team ever to reach the Grand Finals of an S-tier PUBG Mobile event.

    Grand Finals: Pressure, Precision, and Pride

    The Grand Finals, held from August 1–3, introduced the Smash Rule—a format where the leading team could win instantly with a Chicken Dinner. 4Thrives didn’t clinch the title, but they held their own against giants from China, Korea, Myanmar, and Europe.

    • Final Placement: 7th
    • Final Points: 109
    • Prize Money from Finals: $80,000 USD
    • Total Earnings: $157,000 USD

    Falak Sher, owner and star player of 4Thrives Esports, helped lead the team to a historic 7th place finish at PMWC 2025, ranking 6th in frags and 3rd in overall damage.

    No dramatic speeches. No viral interviews. Just results, respect, and a nation watching.

    Team Manager

    Their manager, Shaheen, played a crucial role—handling analytics, strategy, and emotional support. Behind every rotation and zone prediction was hours of unpaid labor and belief.

    National Impact: A New Chapter for Pakistani Esports

    4Thrives’ success has sparked a wave of pride across Pakistan’s gaming community. From Lahore to Quetta, young players now cite Falak and his squad as role models. Their story is being shared in Urdu captions, TikTok edits, and Instagram reels—with hashtags like:

    • #FalakSher
    • #4ThrivesEsports
    • #PakistanGaming
    • #PMWC2025

    They’ve helped shift the narrative around gaming—from taboo to talent. Media outlets, influencers, and even educators are beginning to recognize esports as a legitimate career path.

    What Comes Next?

    With PMWC behind them, 4Thrives is expected to compete in PMSL Fall 2025 and possibly qualify for the PUBG Mobile Global Championship (PMGC). Their accumulated points and global visibility make them strong contenders.

    Despite operating without a bootcamp or org, their self-managed model has proven that discipline and loyalty can rival even the biggest names.

    Conclusion: Pakistan Didn’t Just Participate, it proved its presence

    4Thrives Esports didn’t arrive with fanfare. They arrived with focus. In less than nine months, they went from unknowns to global contenders—earning respect, revenue, and a place in history.

    Their journey wasn’t exaggerated. It was earned. And as the closing ceremony lights dimmed in Riyadh, one truth remained:

    Pakistan didn’t just participate. It thrived.

    Resilience isn’t always loud. 4Thrives shows that true growth is deliberate, shaped with intent. From setbacks to new beginnings, this platform honors every step forward. Congratulations, Team 4Thrives.

    Similar Read: Where stands Pakistan in the world of Esports? – Esports Planet