Esports will officially debut as a medal event at the Asian Games 2023, following its previous appearance as a demonstration in 2018. The Asian Games 2022, originally planned for last year but postponed due to COVID-19, will now take place from September 23 to October 8, 2023 in Hangzhou, China. This exciting inclusion of esports in the prestigious event highlights its growing recognition as a mainstream sport.
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The Asian Esports Federation (AESF) has announced the seven official esports events and their respective publishers:
- Arena of Valor Asian Games Version
- Dota 2
- Dream Three Kingdoms 2
- FIFA Online 4
- League of Legends
- PUBG Mobile Asian Games Version
- Street Fighter V: Champion Edition
India will participate in four of these events: Dota 2, FIFA Online 4, League of Legends, and Street Fighter V: Champion Edition.
The Indian team consists of 15 members, including players like Charanjot Singh, Karman Singh Tikka, Mayank Prajapati, Ayan Biswas, Akshaj Shenoy (captain), and others.
Arena of Valor and PUBG Mobile Asian Games Version are banned in India, and Dream Three Kingdoms 2 is not accessible in the country. Indian athletes Shikhar Choudhary and Karthik Varma, who were initially scheduled to participate in Hearthstone, will not be taking part as the game was removed from the Asian Games Esports program.
Lokesh Suji, Director of the Esports Federation of India and Vice President of the AESF, expressed his excitement for esports’ official introduction at the 19th Asian Games. He emphasized the significance of this milestone for Indian esports and encouraged everyone to witness the event.
Suji highlighted the diverse skills, strategies, and teamwork showcased in esports, promising an engaging experience for viewers. He expressed confidence in the preparedness of Indian athletes to succeed in this transformative championship and fulfill their dreams.
Esports have a positive impact on the youth, it has the potential to foster discipline, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. Esports also transcends traditional boundaries, providing a platform for players from all walks of life to compete on an equal footing.
