The recent acquisition of Evo by a Saudi Arabian governmental entity has sparked considerable outrage within the fighting game community. Many prominent players and fans are calling for a return to grassroots events in response to this controversial ownership, which they believe undermines the values of inclusivity and community that define the fighting game genre. As the community weighs its options, the question arises: can grassroots events truly reclaim their prominence in the face of growing corporate influence?

nWill grassroots events effectively replace major tournaments like Evo?

While it's difficult to predict, many players express a strong desire to support community-led events that emphasize social connections over profit. This sentiment indicates a possible shift where grassroots tournaments could regain significance, offering players a space that aligns more closely with their values despite the allure of higher stakes at corporate-run competitions.

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Evo, or the Evolution Championship Series, is known as the largest fighting game tournament globally and has been a staple event for gamers since its inception. It showcased top talent from games like Street Fighter, Tekken, and more, fostering a rich community spirit. The recent changes have raised concerns among players regarding the future of Evo and the ethics of participating in events backed by governments with controversial human rights records. The ongoing debate underscores the struggle between the competitive nature of esports and the core principles of the community-led fighting game scene.