If We Win: What Does Hosting the Hearthstone World Championships – Southeast Asia Mean?
With the polls coming down the wire and the country holding a tenuous lead over competitor Malaysia, many are asking a simple question: What does it mean to play hosts to the Hearthstone World Championships – SEA Region grand finals?
The general population of gamers seem to be in favor of our country hosting the said event. But there are also those that have doubts if we can organize and present the event properly.
Now, our take on what everyone is wondering about.
If We Win: What’s in it…
For the Players?
If the SEA championships were to be held here in our country, our pro HS players that would qualify and reach the finals would not have to go through the processes of acquiring passports and other necessary travel documents. This also eliminates the pressure and stress of having to acquire the money needed for travel and allowance should it be held in another country –in this case, Malaysia.
As there are no pro Hearthstone teams established as of yet here in the Philippines, it is difficult to imagine that the 12 qualified Filipino players would be able to secure a sponsorship in time.
For the Philippine Hearthstone Community?
Coldsnap Battlemage (Hearthstone Philippines Facebook Group Administrator who chose not to use his real name) said it best: “Recognition and Honor. Moreover, casual players would be interested in playing competitively. Finally we would be able to prove that Hearthstone is a growing eSports title that people should recognize.”
For general e-Sports?
Holding such large-scale events means that a lot of help will also be needed. Brands both locally and internationally will sure consider taking a look to offer sponsorships (if we didn’t ask for one), and investments. There is no way for Philippine e-Sports to go, just grow.
For the country?
Lots of gamers outside of Hearthstone are already representing the country in the international scene and with every match they play, we share their pride in victory. Even the heartbreak of defeat.
If the entire country can show support for our athletes, maybe we can show even a sliver of that for our eSports atheletes.
If We Win: How about the…
Venue? Are there any that can hold such an event?!
We have a lot of great venues that would be able to host it. A lot of eSports events and gatherings are being conducted all throughout the country. Why would there be none?
There are already places being considered such as the SMX Convention Center, Meralco Theater and World Trade Center.
Terrible internet connectivity?
Special support can be given by the different internet service providers for such events. It would be a great opportunity for them businesses as well. Add to the fact that Hearthstone is a game that can be played on a mobile connection, and you have an event that can easily handle any bandwith issues with minimal worry.
Any possible problems that might arise can sure be easily solved with the support of everyone, the government, the private businesses and the professional and casual players alike.
In the end, this is a HUGE opportunity for us that we should not pass on!
But before we can even begin to plan for all of this, we need to secure the vote. Please remember to rock the polls by voting for the Philippines to host the largest Hearthstone event in the game’s young history. A win means that we get to experience this one-of-a-kind event on our own turf!
Voting ends tonight at 11:59PM! Cast your vote by clicking here.
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