Evo, the world's largest fighting game tournament, has announced a new initiative, Evo Locals, which includes a $1 million annual fund dedicated to supporting smaller, grassroots fighting game events worldwide. The program also features a directory of community hubs and regional online communities.
While applications for the grant and partnership program will open later this year, the Evo Locals initiative aims to provide more than just prize money. Support will extend to crucial operational aspects such as securing more setups, covering venue fees, enhancing production quality, staffing, graphic design, and even offering guidance on social media best practices and securing commentators. Stuart Saw, CEO of RTS, the company that owns Evo, stated that the program's goal is to help the community overcome challenges and foster the next generation of fighting game competitors and fans.
This move comes at a time when many in the fighting game community (FGC) are experiencing increased costs for participating in and organizing events. Organizers, already facing financial strain, must contend with rising expenses, while attendees have less disposable income for travel and entry fees.
The reception to the Evo Locals fund has been mixed. Many welcome the increased financial and operational support for smaller events that often struggle to secure backing. Sway, a New York tournament organizer, called the initiative "awesome" and praised its focus on operational support over just prize pools. However, Sway also expressed a desire for local events to retain their distinct identity and avoid excessive sponsor integration or mandated name changes.
Hassan "Spag" Farooq, a British Tekken commentator, described local events as the "bread and butter" of the FGC and viewed the fund as "very positive." He noted that local tournaments are frequently run at a loss, and this financial aid could help organizers maintain and grow these essential community hubs, which in turn can feed into larger events like Evo.
However, a significant portion of the FGC has expressed skepticism due to the source of the funding. Evo and its parent company, RTS, were acquired by Saudi Arabia earlier this year. The country faces widespread criticism from human rights organizations regarding its human rights record. Critics argue that accepting government funding from Saudi Arabia, particularly from its Public Investment Fund (PIF), constitutes sportswashing—an attempt to improve a country's international reputation through association with high-profile events.
Paul 'Dark Onion', an Irish tournament organizer, voiced his cynicism, suggesting that Saudi Arabia's PIF is attempting to gain influence and goodwill within the FGC through financial means. He stated that participating in such a program would alienate a significant portion of his community, who are opposed to engaging with Saudi-backed initiatives.
Similarly, UK-based player Kelpie described the program as another avenue for sportswashing and warned against Evo attempting to "monopolize fighting game events" with "blood money."
Tournament organizers find themselves in a difficult position, balancing the urgent need for financial support against the ethical implications of accepting funds tied to the Saudi government. As player Yung P articulated on X, the community expects low entry costs for locals, yet often criticizes organizers for raising prices to cover expenses. This creates a dilemma where organizers may need the money but risk alienating a segment of their player base if they accept it.
Beyond the ethical debate, the fund's practical benefits could influence player attendance. Grassroots events that accept the funding may be able to offer more consoles, better venues, or higher quality production and commentary, potentially drawing players away from events that refuse the support. This adds another layer of complexity for organizers and attendees alike.
Some within the FGC advocate for a pragmatic approach, suggesting that such funds can be utilized for positive change. The ultimate impact of the Evo Locals fund, its adoption by the community, and how it reshapes the fighting game landscape remain to be seen as it rolls out later this year.