Checkmate.live a next-gen esports-first chess and broadcasting platform, today announced that it has entered into a strategic collaboration with Tencent Cloud, the cloud business of global technology company Tencent to accelerate Chess as an esport and bring fair play back to the game.
Checkmate is the latest initiative by VADR Media, focusing on producing and broadcasting XR linear and online chess tournaments for a new generation of players. At its heart, Checkmate is a cloud-based platform that leverages cutting-edge technology to provide the opportunity to compete for cash prizes, credits, and collectables.
Both Checkmate and Tencent Cloud share a unified vision where the convergence of media and technology can be harnessed to level up the realm of competitive play, broadcasting, and chess – one of the world's largest sports and the next big thing in esports. Tencent Cloud, with its expertise in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, anti-cheat protection, gaming, and XR, along with its global footprint, brings immense value to the table. Chess's universal appeal serves as a unique platform that facilitates the connection of players through social and competitive play.
Checkmate will leverage a number of Tencent Cloud’s services, ranging from cloud infrastructure to its recently launched Metaverse-in-a-Box offerings to optimise its platform. At the same time, the two parties have agreed on a range of future collaborations to accelerate the game.
“From providing the best hyperscale infrastructure to creating a one-stop shop for cloud solutions, we aim to support the global esports and Metaverse community to adopt critical technologies to drive deeper connections between the virtual and real worlds,” says Leo Li, Vice President, Tencent Cloud International.
XR in event broadcasting hit an inflection point in 2020; at the same time, online Chess also saw a global boom due to the shift online, which hasn’t slowed down. Only last week, the International Olympic Committee, which recognises Chess as a sport, also recognised Chess's role as an esport with the addition of the game to its 2023 Olympic Esports Series.
An estimated 700 million people play the 1500-year-old skill-based game, making it the world’s largest esport and sport. It is estimated that up to 420 million of these players are aged between 18-34, which mirrors esports.
“It’s fair to say we’re delighted This will be an exciting era for the world of chess; Tencent and Tencent Cloud, have years of experience in the fields of gaming, media and cloud services. Their technical prowess and global footprint accelerate our shared vision. This capability, combined with the rapid acceleration of AI, has unlocked new opportunities for broadcasters to engage and immerse players and fans.”, said John McRae, Managing Director of VADR Media.
_John%20McRae%20(right)_cropped%20(1).jpg)
The partnership was announced at the conclusion of the Inaugural Asian Chess Federation Summit in Abu Dhabi, where McRae was invited as the keynote speaker.
The Asian Chess Federation recently announced its strategic partnership with Checkmate as exclusive online data, broadcast and tournament platform. His Highness Sheikh Sultan Bin Khalifa Al Nahayan, a member of the Abu Dhabi Ruling Family, is President of The Asian Chess Federation. During the opening of the summit, Sheikh Sultan announced.
“I am particularly delighted to welcome Mr John McRae, who will guide us through our journey into the digital world with integrity. As we navigate the complex and rapidly evolving landscape of technology and digital innovation, Mr McRae's expertise will be invaluable in helping us to leverage the power of technology while staying true to the values of sportsmanship and fair play that lie at the heart of our game.”
Checkmate is also the exclusive online data, broadcast and tournament platform for the Arab Esports Federation. The two international Federations represent 71 national chess and esports Federations in Africa, Asia, the Middle East (and GCC) and Oceania.