At a press conference hosted in Bangkok, WCG gave more details on WCG’s layout, its long-term vision and official programs.
Since its introduction of WCG Challenge in 2000, WCG had become the largest eSports competition in the world until it paused after the 2013 Games in Kunshan, China. With Smilegate Holdings’ acquisition of the WCG in March 2017, WCG has evolved into a new kind of festival incorporating not just games but also digital technology and music.
Under the theme “Global eSports Festival for a Better World,” WCG 2018 will feature eSports tournaments, future eSports based on innovative future technology with cultural programs for everyone to enjoy and festival. WCG is determined to become a global festival with for people from around the world to enjoy and unite as one.
At the press conference, key figures that have special ties with WCG, including Korean game channel caster Jeon Yong-jun,professional players Jang Jae-ho and Li Xiaofeng delivered video clips with congratulatory remarks and messages of support. These were followed by a welcome speech from WCG CEO Kwon HyukBin and congratulatory remarks from Chirayu Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, the President of official WCG partner TCEB (Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau). Current Korean TV host Guillaume Patry, who serves as official advisor to WCG, presented WCG 2018 details, including the official programs. Mr. Patry is a former WCG participant, having won awards in the 2003 event’s StarCraft division.
WCG 2018 will be comprised of four major zones: Super Arena, the highest level of competition; New Horizon, the future sports with new technology; Festival, a digital community culture combined with unique programs; and Fan Stadium, a comprehensive WCG fandom expo.
The Super Arena zone will embrace all the game enthusiasts by presenting the game titles in two categories: Masters and Premium. WCG said Clash Royale, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, DOTA 2 and Heroes of Newerth are confirmed, and more titles will be updated in near future.
In the New Horizon zone, WCG will present expanded eSports with future technology and new possibility. WCG’s first theme of New Horizon is “Drone” and “VR” represented by the industry-leading companies, who share the vision with WCG. DJI, the world’s leading manufacturer in civilian drones and imaging technology, and HTC VIVE, the best VR Headset, will participate as partners. And partnership details will be announced soon. The main programs for the zone are “WCG 2018 Drone Racing World Championship” and “WCG 2018 VR World Championship.” For drone racing, WCG have partnered with the world’s biggest live racing organization, the Drone Champions League (DCL), to lift the drone competition tournament to another level. WCG will lead VR eSports with best partners in optimized screen standardization, game exhibition and broadcasting categories.In addition, a variety of programs to experience and enjoy VR and drone are prepared indoors for many WCG visitors, while rising new tech programs will also be showcased.
Meanwhile, in the Festival zone, a world class cosplay contest with cosplayers from different nationalities will be held, and professional cosplay teams including Spiral Cats will participate in various activities. A world-renowned DJ Steve Aoki, a creator of WCG theme music, and Dim Mak will hold live concerts. It is expected that more global celebrities are to join the fun. Furthermore, WCG 2018 will feature TED Talks for the first time in Southeast Asia.
“With its new chapter, WCG aims to break the boundaries of race, culture and generations, and become an arena of harmony for a better world,” said WCG CEO Kwon HyukBin. “We have incorporated various eSports with contemporary culture and festival, targeting younger generation who enjoy eSports, and also family members to enjoy together. This would support WCG’s goal of becoming a true global festival of bringing everyone from around the world.”
WCG 2018 will be held in Bangkok, Thailand from 26-29 April.