Indian Esports 2017: A Year In Review

A $100,000 domestic tournament, competitive gaming on television and a handful of pro-gamers receiving bans. 2017 has definitely proved to be the best year yet for the Indian esports scene with some extraordinary storylines along with a handful of new stars and some surprising lows. As the year draws to a close, here’s a look back at some of the moments that defined the past 12 months of competitive gaming in the country.

BIG NAMES AND BIG TOURNAMENTS ENTER THE FRAY

While 2016 provided the necessary nourishment and foundation for the competitive gaming scene in the country, it was in 2017 when it flourished. The competitive gaming scene in the country witnessed a proposed investment of over $45 million in the months to come.

The year also excited players and enthusiasts alike with some explosive tournaments. At the forefront was ESL India Premiership 2017, which hosted an impressive $100,000 prize pool. This event featured an open league system apart from promising premier esports action throughout the year. Given the massive prize pool and competition, ESL India Premiership attracted talent not only from the country but from the region as well! Other similar tournaments were the Mountain Dew Arena 2017 which featured a unique offline activation, the ASUS ROG Masters 2017 and the Taiwan Excellence Gaming Cup 2017.

ARRIVAL ON NATIONAL TELEVISION