A new format for an esports festival: how the first IBA Boxing Game championship went in Mumbai

The successful launch of the IBA Boxing Game offline series in Mumbai opened a new chapter in the development of the esports movement. The event, which attracted over seven hundred people, went beyond a classic tournament, turning into a full-fledged festival for the gaming community.

Competition and celebration in a single format

The main feature of the first championship was the successful combination of the sporting component and the atmosphere of an open celebration. Participants didn’t just compete for the prize pool; they also got the opportunity to spend the entire day in a premium esports club, connect with like-minded people, and be among the first to immerse themselves in the IBA Boxing Game universe. This format attracted both experienced esports athletes focused on serious competition and regular guests who wanted to have a good time and try something new.

Cross-platform accessibility as a foundation

One of the key takeaways for many guests was the opportunity to play the same game on completely different devices. Specially equipped areas with gaming PCs and spots for mobile gaming clearly demonstrated how technical boundaries are fading. Participants could see how the game adapts to smartphone controls and screens while maintaining its dynamism and spectacle on large monitors. This experiment confirmed that the future belongs to projects accessible to the widest possible audience.

Interaction with an opinion leader

The presence of Sahil Rana became an important test of audience engagement for the organizers. The popular blogger didn’t limit himself to formal participation: he spent several hours at the club, talking with fans, giving gameplay advice, and participating in informal duels. Such direct and open dialogue with a star whose opinion matters to the young audience significantly strengthened the guests’ emotional connection with the event and the project itself.

Dynamics and fairness of the competition

The tournament bracket was structured so that every participant, regardless of skill level, got several exciting matches. This prevented a situation where newcomers are quickly eliminated, and the main attention is focused only on a small group of professionals. Intense and fair competition, where the outcome of each bout was unpredictable, kept everyone on the edge of their seats until the very final. The two winners, who proved their mastery through a series of tough matches, received their well-deserved awards to the applause of the hall.

First impressions and the development vector

Following the event, many participants and guests noted that such events are important for forming a local esports community. They provide a rare opportunity for live communication, sharing experiences, and simply having a good time among people with shared interests. The success of the pilot event in Mumbai set a high bar for subsequent stages of the series in other cities, proving the viability and demand for the format of a large-scale gaming festival.

🔴 To feel the indescribable atmosphere of the event, the energy of the victories, and the emotions of the participants, be sure to watch our video report from the championship!