The inaugural FIFAe World Cup 2024, a collaboration between eFootball and FIFA, has concluded, crowning champions in both mobile and console divisions. Malaysia's Minbappe secured victory in the mobile category, while Indonesia dominated the console competition with the team BINONGBOYS, SHNKS-ELGA, GARUDAFRANC, and akbarpaudie taking the top prize.
Held at the SEF Arena in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this prestigious tournament marks the beginning of what both organizations anticipate will be an ongoing annual event. The high production values of the FIFAe World Cup 2024 are a testament to the significant investment in esports from Saudi Arabia, mirroring the launch of the inaugural Esports World Cup this year.
A High-Stakes Game
The FIFAe World Cup's long-term success remains to be seen. However, the collaboration clearly signals Konami and FIFA's ambition to establish eFootball as the premier football simulator for professional esports. This partnership significantly strengthens that goal.
Concerns remain, though. The highly-produced, extravagant nature of the competition might not resonate with casual players. History shows that large-scale organizational involvement in esports, even in established scenes like fighting games, can sometimes lead to unforeseen challenges. While the FIFAe World Cup 2024 appears to have run smoothly, potential future issues can't be discounted.
For those interested in other recent esports events, the Pocket Gamer Awards 2024 results are now available!
