Alongside the 2022 Commonwealth Games – an international multi-sport athletic event first held in 1930 – in Birmingham later this year, there will be the first-ever Commonwealth Esports Championships.
Organised by the Global Esports Federation, the UK event will feature professional esports competitions for three main gaming titles: DOTA 2, Konami’s eFootball and Rocket League.
While Rocket League does feature driving, none of the three esports feature ‘true’ virtual racing. However, the Innovation Showcase area inside the International Convention Centre (ICC) will feature sim racing in the form of Assetto Corsa Competizione.
Thanks to burgeoning female-led outfit Init Esports – and partners AK Informatica and Kunos Simulazioni – the driving simulation will be playable to all visitors, and the organisers hope to attract sports personalities and popular esports champions to try out sim racing during the event, with the hope of widening awareness.
“Sim racing creates a direct line into the real world,” said Stefy Bau, CEO of Init Esports, three-time motocross World Champion.
“Motorsports and gaming tend to be heavy on the male side and sim racing can provide a relatable and less threatening way for everyone interested in both industries. The possibility to make mistakes while playing is also very important because it can shape [a personality] to keep trying and learning.”
“During the CEC 2022, everyone new to esports should come and try a [racing] simulator, while experts show the public how engaging it is.”
The Innovation Showcase will run during the Commonwealth Esports Championships in Birmingham’s ICC between 5th and 7th August 2022.
Image source: Init Esports
