Chess, the ancient game of strategy, is making a significant foray into the modern competitive landscape of esports. The 2025 eSports World Cup, scheduled to take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, will feature chess for the first time, boasting a substantial $1.5 million prize pool. This development signifies a new era for the sport, attracting top talent from the traditional chess world.
Among the prominent figures embracing this novel opportunity is India`s Grandmaster Arjun Erigaisi. Known for his prowess in classical chess, Erigaisi has been signed by Gen G eSports, joining a growing list of elite players recruited by esports organizations aiming for success in this new format. Other notable signings include the 2024 World Rapid Champion Volodar Murzin, who joined AG Global. The potential participant list is expected to include many of the world`s top players, with Magnus Carlsen and Hikaru Nakamura also anticipated to feature – a prospect that, according to Erigaisi, influenced his decision to explore the eSports circuit. Qualification for the main event will largely depend on performance in the 2025 Champions Chess Tour.
The eSports World Cup introduces a unique challenge with its specific time control: 10 minutes for the entire game with *no* increment per move. While traditional over-the-board chess under such conditions can lead to frantic, sometimes chaotic finishes involving pieces scattered across the board as players battle the clock, the digital environment of the eSports platform changes the dynamic. Here, instead of avoiding dropped pieces, players must master the speed and precision of mouse movements. Erigaisi, acknowledging the distinct skill required, notes that while he is “decent” with a mouse, it`s an aspect he plans to train specifically for. He describes this rapid-fire format as more akin to a “slow blitz” than standard rapid play.
Despite the intriguing new challenge presented by the eSports arena, Erigaisi`s ultimate ambition remains firmly rooted in classical chess: qualifying for the Candidates tournament. This highly competitive event determines the challenger for the World Championship title. Having narrowly missed qualification via the FIDE Circuit last year, Erigaisi is focused on the remaining opportunities in 2025, primarily through strong performances in events like the Grand Swiss and the FIDE World Cup, or by maintaining a high rating. While his start to the year at the Tata Steel tournament was challenging, impacting his rating somewhat, Erigaisi remains confident in his ability to perform when it matters most, stating his belief in qualifying if he plays at his peak.
Erigaisi`s willingness to engage with formats like the eSports World Cup highlights the adaptability of modern chess players and contributes to the game`s expansion into new markets. It`s a fascinating convergence of traditional skill and digital competition. However, as Erigaisi prepares to navigate these new digital boards and time constraints, his stated priority underscores a clear distinction: the exploration of esports is an exciting side quest, but the quest for the classical World Championship crown remains the primary mission.
