New Delhi: The push to position esports alongside traditional international competitions is gaining momentum, with the Esports World Cup Foundation placing national identity at the heart of its newest initiative. Through the Esports Nations Cup, the foundation hopes to unlock new audiences and accelerate growth in emerging markets such as India.
According to EWCF Chief Operating Officer Mike McCabe, national pride has the power to reshape how competitive gaming is perceived. While esports has historically revolved around club rivalries, the Nations Cup shifts the focus to country versus country competition, mirroring global sporting events. The belief is that seeing players represent their nation can spark wider engagement beyond core gaming communities.
India presents a compelling case. The country has hundreds of millions of gamers, yet structured international pathways remain limited. A national team framework could unify top talent that is otherwise divided across clubs and create a broader narrative that resonates with mainstream audiences.
The Nations Cup also seeks to expand access beyond established esports powerhouses in regions such as East Asia, Europe and North America. By introducing National Team Partners responsible for squad development and player welfare, the initiative aims to build stable structures in countries where governance has been fragmented. For India, this emphasis on organization and cooperation could mark a significant step forward.
Game selection has been another deliberate move. Unlike traditional tournaments that lean heavily toward PC titles, the Nations Cup will feature a mix of mobile, console and PC games. The early announcement of Mobile Legends: Bang Bang signals recognition of mobile gaming’s dominance in markets like India.
Beyond competition, the long term objective is legitimacy. Greater visibility through mainstream platforms and recurring international events could strengthen confidence among players and families considering esports careers. Ultimately, the Nations Cup is designed not as a one off spectacle, but as part of a sustained effort to establish esports as a global sport with enduring national rivalries.
