Giant screens, fans, Carlsen: Chess at EWC gets louder on the esports stage

In Paris, chess found a louder stage at the Esports World Cup, where giant screens, live crowds, music and esports-style production surrounded the world’s best players. Magnus Carlsen defended his title, while India’s Arjun Erigaisi and Nihal Sarin reached the top eight. Through players, fans and organisers, this reported feature examines how chess is adapting to esports without changing the game itself – and what that could mean for its future.