by The International Olympic Committee has announced the Esports Series for 2023. This competition will cover a wide range of online games and will have live finals in Singapore from June 22-25.
Some games that are going to appear in the Series include dance game Just danceonline motorsport racing title Gran Turismo 7and the virtual cycling game Zwift. These are the big players of the group, but the games are more traditional in the Olympic spirit, such as virtual Taekwondo and Tennis are also present.
“The Olympic Esports Series 2023 marks another step in supporting the development of virtual sports,” the IOC said in a statement. suspension (opens in new tab). “Partnering with gaming and esports communities will create new opportunities for players and fans.”
Is this really esports?
The addition of esports to the Olympics is an exciting and encouraging step forward for competitive gaming. However, I can’t help but think that this matchup roster misses the mark.
It is the equivalent of a singing competition where the contestants can read the lines in front of them
When I think of esports, my mind immediately goes to competitive FPS titles like Overwatch 2 and CSGO or fighting games like Tekken and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. I can’t say that its online archery and tic-tac-toe game for mobile Tic Tac Bow is my first thought when it comes to immersive esports gameplay.
Even Just dance in all its glory it doesn’t scream competitive esports to me. These contestants will be doing physically demanding activities, with the only difference between this and regular competitive dancing being that a screen is involved. To me, it’s the equivalent of a singing competition where the contestants can read the lines in front of them.
Of all the options available, Gran Turismo 7 it’s the only title that I feel is justifiably cut from the fabric of esports. This fast-paced racing game brings its own identity to the Olympics, as motorsport is no longer an event, while showcasing the skill and intensity required for online gaming.
Out of options
It would be nice to see more mainstream esports titles make it to the Olympics, not only to better represent the sport but also to help the IOC modernize its competition.
However, I think that ship has sailed. Most online competitive titles now have Olympic equivalents. Whether it’s the Overwatch World Cup or the League of Legends World Championship, there are already lucrative and infamous competitions that fans and players can sink their teeth into.
It really seems like the IOC is stuck with the garbage that doesn’t fit very well. Still, I’m sure they’ll make the most of the situation. After all, who doesn’t want Titanium on the big stage for all to see?
