The ALGS World Championship will remain in Sapporo for two seasons, per official confirmation. Due to an agreement renewal with the City of Sapporo, the Daiwa House PREMIST DOME has secured the hosting of Year Five and Year Six of the event.
Sapporo hosted the Year Four Championship, which was also a great success. This commitment strengthens this already successful partnership. The event held in late January marked an important chapter in the series.
Record-Breaking Attendance Highlights Japan’s Enthusiasm
The last event in Sapporo saw over 34,000 spectators, making it the biggest ever live audience in ALGS history. The overwhelming number of competitors demonstrated Japan’s growing appetite for the game and shows that this region could be a cornerstone of global esports.
EA, the giant behind the Apex Legends franchise, says that the extended partnership is a way for the publisher to grow esports in the Asia-Pacific. It also shows that there is an interest in in-person competitions, which continues to drive the international appeal of the series.
EA Emphasises Growth And Community Connection
EA’s Head of Esports, Monica Dinsmore, acknowledged the enthusiasm of the region. Fans in Sapporo are unique and, in this sense, no one can compare to them. With the Apex Legends global community growing, states EA is very committed to bringing live experiences to audiences and fans that connect them and showcase the best talent in the world.
Departures From The Scene Amid Expansion
Though the series is growing, not everything is great news. In June, after five years, Complexity – a long time team within the circuit – withdrew. This represents a significant change, although the competitive scene continues to thrive with prominent partnerships and increasingly engaged audiences.
ALGS And The Broader Asian Esports Landscape
The decision to retain the ALGS Championship in Japan is in line with a broader regional growth of Japanese esports.
BLAST plans a Counter-Strike event in Hong Kong, while Riot will host VCT Game Changers Championship at League of Legends Park in Seoul, South Korea. Live tournaments are witnessing increasing popularity among gamers in Asia and scientists. Major cities of Asia are seeing the rise in event-based esports.
Looking Ahead To Saudi Arabia
ALGS Circuit Has One More Big Stop Planned Before Japan Return The Esports World Cup’ Mid-Season Playoffs will take place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This world tour shows how global Apex Legends esports is and its events taking place in different markets is a smart move.