In celebration of the first-ever Grand Final in China, the WCG put on a spectacular opening ceremony that was witnessed by thousands of fans at the New International Convention & Exposition Center. 

The event began with the annual WCG Parade of Nations, during which a representative from each of the countries carried the flag of his homeland to showcase National pride and the dreams for gold and glory that each of the gamers brings to the event. Following the parade, internationally renowned Chinese Warcraft III player Li 'WE-SKY' Xiaofeng was joined on stage by Thomas Clarke, the head Guitar Hero referee from New Zealand, for the reading of the Fair Play Oath. Headlining the entertainment at the event was a performance from China's pop sensation 'Boy Band' who sang a Chinese version of the official WCG theme song 'Beyond the Game'.

The first day was not just pomp and circumstance. It also marked the beginning of the competition as Xiaofeng took on German great Marc 'yAws' Forster in Warcraft III: The Frozen Throne. The first match of the Grand Final gave Germany a great jump out of the gate as Forster took down the hometown favorite in a thrilling match.

"This year's Grand Final marks the first time the WCG has selected China for its biggest event of the year and we are confident it will be one of the most spectacular to date," said Hyoung-seok Kim, CEO of World Cyber Games Inc., the global organizer of the World Cyber Games. 

The WCG 2009 Grand Final continues through November 15.