Cover Photo by Axville on Unsplash
Photo by Axville on Unsplash
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Catching you up with what you've missed, gamers
This year, the country’s biggest gaming convention came alive with the hashtag #ComebackIsReal. Electronic Sports and Gaming Summit, widely known as ESGS, returned to the SMX Convention Center, Pasay, Manila last October 28 to October 30. After two years of being virtual due to the pandemic, the highly anticipated annual event in Southeast Asia was made possible by its usual organisers, Gariath Concepts.
ESGS is all about gaming and everything else related to games with a hint of cosplay, a bunch of entertainment, and a ton of enjoyable activities all over the place. It is dedicated to gamers at heart and enthusiasts alike, and even for those who are merely interested. The convention’s purpose is to introduce titles and services of various local and international companies and studios while acknowledging the presence of electronic sports, its professional players, and cyber athletes, and how far the technology and industry have become.
We’re witnessing and continuously experiencing the rise of e-sports in the Philippines with businesses and developments that tends to the entertainment and growth aspects of the field. Due to the global crisis, players across all platforms significantly multiplied in number and paved the way for an evolution in the arts of electronic sports. "Gaming isn’t just a hobby anymore, it’s become a lifestyle," said Tryke Gutierrez. Games connect you not just with others, but especially with your true self.
Related: Tryke Gutierrez on The Growth of E-Sports in the Philippines
So, what exactly went down in the three-day event? It's been days since the success of the convention and the congoers are still hungover for ESGS.
Powered by Globe in complement to their #GameWellPlayed campaign, Riot Games made its first Philippine event scene appearance in ESGS 2022. “Our Filipino community is one of our most passionate and engaged, and we look forward to showing our appreciation to them with a range of exciting highlights and prizes to win” declares Riot Games Country General Manager Joel Guzman. The statement bears more truth than promise as attendees were able to bag lots of merchandise and freebies. Despite the unpleasant weather, hundreds of supporters came through to enjoy the multiple surprises the event had in store.
Esports & Gaming Summit 2022
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Apart from Globe as the main presenter and Riot Games as the platinum exhibitor, Tier One Entertainment, Call of Duty Mobile, Republic of Gamers, JBL Quantum, MSI, Razer Gold, Predator, ViewSonic, PUBG Mobile and Tower of Fantasy had their booths as major exhibitors alongside Genshin Impact, Scenius, Community Gaming, Ragnarok and Gravity Game Hub as minor exhibitors. Keywords Studios, SEGA, Corsair, Fantech, Glorious, Sharp and Nexplay's entries were also found within the area. A performance by Mayonnaise made sure to hype the crowd on the first day of the event, but what took the stage by storm was the cosplay competition, Valorant tournament, The International Dota 2 Championships watch party, Astra Arena Matchmaking, Asia Masters Exhibition, the Indie Party of game developers and Gaming Class speakers that were stretched out on the three days.
Tier One Entertainment’s talents were additionally present in the lineup together with various content creators and celebrities. Filipino stars Sharlene San Pedro, Izzy Canillo, Marco Masa and Bugoy Carino showed their love for Garena’s Call of Duty Mobile by participating in a battle against a mystery team. Audience members similarly had the chance to play with Mobile Legends: Bang Bang icons Renejay, H2wo, Dogie and Jeymz.
See also: This Professional Gamer Wants You to Take His Bachelor's Degree in E-Sports. Here's Why You Should
Above Tier One Entertainment talents
Tier One Entertainment talents
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And of course, the experience would not be complete without the loots. From the official ESGS swag retail, Secretlab gaming chair, Call of Duty Mobile exclusives such as sweaters and caps, Fantech gaming desk and gears, to the event's artist and merch alleys with stickers, keychains, clothing, toys, photobooks, crafts and accessories. Brands such as Patag who specialises in promoting our culture through their products featured an astonishing display as well. The event was indeed a treat for everyone.
Cong Velasquez of Cong TV was also seen on the grounds and the community of the Gamer Girls Philippines opened its sanctuary at the gathering. It was a weekend filled with fun, memories, and celebration as Esports & Gaming Summit 2022 definitely came back with a bang. What are your thoughts and expectations for next year’s convention?
Above To the public from Gariath Concepts
To the public from Gariath Concepts
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Kristina's passion to write came from her love for books. If her nose isn't buried in one nor her fingers are tapping away on a keyboard working on a write-up, you'll find her having a feast at a new restaurant or savouring coffee in the nearest shop listening to rock music. Also interested in computer games and all things Japan, she spends her free time playing Dota 2, watching anime, as well as reading manga.
