🎮 Gamers from around the globe gathered in Shanghai as the 2024 Shanghai Esports Masters (SEM) reached its epic finale on December 8 at the Jing'an Sports Center. Over five thrilling days, more than 100 players battled it out in four electrifying events, taking esports hype to a whole new level!
Since its debut in 2019, SEM has been leveling up, reflecting the rapid changes in the esports arena. What started as niche has gone mainstream—esports is no longer just for pro players in exclusive tournaments. Now, national events invite the general public to join in on the action. 🙌
\"The fact that more and more people like esports shows that esports are also gaining recognition from society and public opinion,\" exclaimed esports fan Zhou Beiqing. \"As an esports enthusiast, I feel that I have chosen the right hobby.\" 🎉
This year's SEM was lit 🔥 with appearances from top-tier players like Hangzhou Asian Games Arena of Valor gold medalist Luo Siyuan and Valorant sensation Liang Youhao.
\"I think it is a great honor to represent Honor of Kings and attend the Opening Ceremony,\" shared Luo Siyuan. \"I will try my best to participate in the competition, and I also hope to have another chance to fight for our country.\" 🇨🇳
\"I hope that the future of esports will be prosperous,\" added Liang Youhao. \"Because I feel different enthusiasm and passion in it, which makes me feel there is a different atmosphere.\" 🚀
SEM has evolved into a benchmark for third-party esports events. Tournament secretary-general Zhu Qinqin emphasized, \"One of our original intentions was to help more people better understand and enjoy watching esports.\"
\"In the future, the esports audience will definitely not be limited to the audience of game manufacturers,\" Zhu noted. \"We want more people to understand esports, know esports, and watch esports. Today, we see many departments in Shanghai, including many leaders, involved. We must expand the influence and popularity of esports through third-party events, which is why we founded the Shanghai Esports Masters.\"
With the SEM's success, it's game on for the future of esports in China and beyond! 🌟
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
