The 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou are currently underway, marking a significant milestone as e-sports make their official debut with seven competitions, including popular titles like League of Legends and Dota 2. This inclusion highlights the growing recognition of e-sports as a legitimate form of competition alongside traditional sports.
But what is driving the entry of e-sports into such a prestigious event? The integration of e-sports signifies a broader acceptance of digital gaming as a competitive and spectator sport, attracting a younger, tech-savvy audience. It also opens up new avenues for sponsorships and international collaboration within the gaming community.
The rise of modern sports like e-sports poses interesting questions for traditional sports such as baseball and softball. While some worry about potential impacts, others see it as an opportunity for traditional sports to innovate and reach wider audiences. Riccardo Fraccari, president of the World Baseball Softball Confederation, emphasizes the importance of adapting to changing interests while preserving the essence of traditional athletics.
Audience enthusiasm for traditional games like baseball and softball remains strong, with spectators enjoying both the familiarity and the competitive spirit these sports bring to the Asian Games stage. The booming growth of these games in China and around the world showcases their enduring appeal and the potential for further expansion.
In this edition of Dialogue, guests include Li Xiaofeng – better known by his game ID name “SKY”, a two-time World Cyber Games champion – and Riccardo Fraccari. Their insights shed light on the evolving landscape of sports and the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation at the Hangzhou Asian Games.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
