Did you know that while esports events are continuing to take place online during the pandemic, one in particular has become the biggest esports charity event ever? Gamers Without Borders has been ongoing for five weeks now and as we enter the last couple of weeks, over 120,000 gamers from 72 different countries have taken part. On top of that, 54 elite teams and 53 Fortnite duos across 48 nationalities have been competing for the $10m prize pool with every single penny going to various charities, ranging from UNICEF to the International Medical Corps.
In this time of global uncertainty, Gamers Without Borders has worked tirelessly to provide activities that unite so many people around the world. The sense of community that has derived from people playing all of these games for such a positive cause is evidence of just how esports is constantly evolving and can undoubtedly be used as a force for good.
His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, chairman of the Saudi Arabian Federation for Electronic and Intellectual Sports (SAFEIS), said: “It’s inspiring to see Gamers Without Borders and Saudi Arabia connect the global gaming community and help respond to COVID-19 through supporting these international charities.
“To have brought together such a huge number of global gamers to watch, game, donate and learn in just four weeks really shows the power that esports possesses. Gaming has proved it transcends all borders – and there’s more to come in the next few weeks.”
Of course, the best time to get involved was right at the start of the tournament. The second best time? Right now! This weekend sees some huge Counter-Strike: Global Offensive matches taking place, with a knockout bracket featuring six of Europe's best squads — including 22-time esports champions FaZe Clan, and global powerhouse Fnatic who were previously crowned Esports Team of the Year in 2006 and 2009 — plus a colossal showmatch between two of the best North American rosters; Team Liquid and 100 Thieves.
If you're keen on catching up on the happenings so far, the Gamers Without Borders YouTube channel has everything you need. Without spoiling the winners for anyone, we've already seen champions crowned in PUBG Mobile, Rainbow Six Siege, DotA 2, and Fortnite, all broadcast by an amazing virtual studio in seven different languages. The impact this event is having has never been seen before and with one game still to be announced for the final weekend, it's an exciting time to be a Gamers Without Borders participant.
Watching the pros face off against one another isn't the only way of participating either. There are plenty of community tournaments to sign up for across 15 different games, including Fortnite, Call of Duty, Overwatch, and more. This is a great way to get involved with esports for the first time amongst like-minded individuals; just pick the game you're best at! On top of that, budding game developers can also partake in numerous academic offerings over at The Academy.
What are you waiting for? Read more about everything happening over on the official Gamers Without Borders website.
