The inaugural PUBG Mobile World Cup kicks off this weekend in Saudi Arabia

The PUBG Mobile World Cup 2024, a landmark event in mobile esports, kicks off this weekend in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Part of the highly anticipated Esports World Cup—a Gamers8 spin-off—this tournament boasts a staggering $3,000,000 prize pool. Twenty-four top teams will battle it out, beginning with the group stage on July 19th, culminating in a champion’s crowning on the 28th.

This event, held amidst the globally-recognized Esports World Cup, presents a significant moment. The substantial financial backing and international spotlight shine a light on the growing legitimacy of the esports scene, particularly for PUBG Mobile. The tournament’s location and funding also raise questions about the increasing influence of Saudi Arabia within the esports world.

For the Casual Gamer: Unless you're a PUBG Mobile player or a dedicated esports enthusiast, this event might seem distant. However, the sheer scale of the prize money and the global attention it's attracting are hard to ignore. Regardless of your opinion on the Esports World Cup and its Saudi backing, the event signifies a major step toward legitimizing the previously often-ridiculed esports community.

Looking for alternative mobile gaming experiences? Check out our extensive list of the best mobile games of 2024 (so far)! Alternatively, explore our list of the year's most anticipated mobile games to discover what's on the horizon.