Intel Extreme Masters is an e-sport event—electronic sport—that has already become popular around the world. Players from across the globe compete for substantial cash and material prizes. This time, the organizers decided to hold the finals of this recurring competition in Poland. The main event will feature the well-known game League of Legends, which has found many fans among the Bolesławiec community.
According to the organizers, interest in last year's event, also held in Katowice, exceeded their wildest expectations. Tens of thousands of players from Poland visited Spodek to see the world's best teams with their own eyes. This time will be no different—an enormous season finale awaits us, with $250,000 in prize money. Everyone agrees on one thing: they have a lot to fight for.
Many people in Bolesławiec, especially young people, are interested in e-sport and the game League of Legends. They spend a great deal of time improving their skills and compete for recognition—whether among their friends or on the national arena. Although everyone believes the game deserves recognition, they unanimously say that e-sport in Poland is neglected.
But what do they think of the game itself? “In my opinion, the game is worth the attention and time I devote to it. I don't complain about the community—I am part of it myself,” says Kacper, a fan of the game. “I play this game in my free time, and I have to say that I am satisfied. It has several modes in which you can have a great time for hours,” explains Mikołaj. “My impressions, formed while playing League of Legends, are truly positive, because I have never encountered such a fantastic group of enthusiasts,” says Jędrek.
League of Legends is undoubtedly a very popular form of entertainment, and the statements quoted above reflect the genuine feelings of local players. But can it be enjoyed not only as entertainment, but also treated as a full-time job? Of course. All professional players competing in international tournaments are paid by the organizations they play for. They receive money and computer equipment from sponsors and take part in advertising campaigns. For them, it is a way of life. For most players, it is just entertainment.
Although the percentage of those who reach the international arena and achieve success is small, e-sport continues to attract millions of fans from around the world—and also from here, from Bolesławiec.
(information: Paweł Jasnorzewski/ii; header photo: www.facebook.com/ESLPolska)