EVO JAPAN had about 10,000 participants. The venue was very exciting.
This EVO JAPAN had 7 main events such as Street Fighter 6, Tekken 8, UNI2, etc. and sub events organized by users.
I think the sub-events are as important as the main events.
In Japan, video games are now recognized as a professional sport as “e-sports. It is great to be able to become a professional and earn money by playing games.
On the other hand, some people will react by asking whether there is any meaning in having a tournament for a minor, unprofitable game.
The essence of the game is to have fun. Making money is a secondary element.
I used to hold Street Fighter 2 and Puyo Puyo tournaments in small game centers. Regardless of age, from elementary school students to adults, there were enough customers to fill the arcade, and everyone had a great time.
The UNI and Melty Blood communities remind me of that.
It is because there are so many small local tournaments that big ones are possible.
EVO JAPAN was a lot of fun. And I cherish the small competitions as well.
Thank you to all the EVO JAPAN participants and staff.