Esports has been on the rise lately as it is accessible to everyone–from smartphones to personal computers. The Philippine Games and Amusement Board also recognize esports, short for electronic sports, because of its modern approach to seeing teams compete and exercise their talents and camaraderie.
Some examples of video games that often dominate the Esports arena are Dota 2, Valorant, League of Legends, and Mobile Legends, names that you can hear from your resident gamer friends because of their global prominence. These are multiplayer games, often occurring in a battle arena, but other video games require only one player to perform.
Colleges and educational institutions across the Philippines saw the growing interest and potential in esports, prompting some to offer curriculums revolving around the modern way of competing with equally talented individuals.
It is no wonder that according to the 2023 Global Digital Report, over 95 percent of internet users in the Philippines are active gamers. Younger audiences, and that young-at-heart, find entertainment and challenge themselves through frequent gaming on their preferred devices. Hence, making the Philippines their next stop for “The Greatest Gamer,” together with TikTok and Smart Communications.
Smart Communications, with Tiktok Philippines, launched The Greatest Gamer Philippines at SM Megamall in Mandaluyong City last May 17, 2023.
Initially a reality gaming competition from Indonesia, The Greatest Gamer will feature ten amateur players living in a villa for three weeks. They will partake in various activities and challenges to showcase what it takes to be a professional esports player.
“The Greatest Gamer Philippines showcases the journey to becoming a professional gamer and engaging the gaming community by providing relevant entertainment, highlighting the skills, passion, and dedication necessary to excel in Esports. We also hope to empower the local gaming community, nurture its growth, and provide a space for enthusiasts to continue displaying their skills and creativity,” says Vanessa Brown, Director, Business Development, Asia- Pacific of TikTok.
TikTok will be used as an avenue for the audience to see the gaming lifestyle–revealing the gamer’s personalities, back stories, and interviews with the creators to follow their journey as professional esports players.
On the other hand, the network giant, Smart Communications, will be the one to ensure that the players’ gameplay is uninterrupted and seamless.
With these two companies partnered for The Greatest Gamer, Esports enthusiasts can look forward to action-filled and memorable moments in authentic gaming competitions.
The ultimate winner will receive a cash prize of P250,000 and a professional esports contract with Smart Omega, the telecom’s Mobile Legend team.
How to join
Aspiring professional esports gamers can submit their audition videos from Wednesday, May 24, to June 14, 2023, via TikTok using the official audition filter hashtag #TheGreatestGamerPH.
In their audition tape, they should be able to introduce themselves and display their skills in Mobile Legends. Besides, it’s not everyday esports enthusiasts have the opportunity to live out their dreams.
These aspiring esports gamers should follow and tag the official TikTok accounts, @thegreatestgamer and @smartcommunications, and use the hashtag #TheGreatestGamerPH.