Super Smash Bros., a beloved franchise that has produced some of the most thrilling competitions in esports history, consistently attracts fans and players alike. Throughout the year, several tournaments stand out due to their popularity, competitive level, and community engagement. Let’s take a closer look at some of the best Smash Bros tournaments of the year.
1. Smash World Tour 2023
The Smash World Tour has become a cornerstone of the competitive Smash community. This comprehensive tournament series included various regional qualifiers leading up to the grand finals, bringing together the best players from around the globe.
Highlights:
- Top Competitors: The tournament featured heavyweights like Leonardo "MKLeo" López Pérez and William "Leffen" Hjelte, showcasing a thrilling array of skills.
- Diverse Formats: The inclusion of both Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Melee allowed for cross-game rivalries, captivating audiences.
- Community Focus: The event emphasized inclusivity, enabling grassroots tournaments to participate in the larger narrative of competitive play.
2. EVO 2023
The Evolution Championship Series (EVO) is one of the most prestigious fighting game tournaments globally, and Smash Bros is no exception. EVO 2023 showcased intense matchups and a vibrant atmosphere that only this longstanding series can deliver.
Highlights:
- World-class Talent: Players from all around the world descended to Las Vegas, creating an unparalleled competitive environment.
- Spectacular Announcements: EVO is known not only for its tournaments but also for unveiling news in the fighting game community. This year’s event had several exciting reveals, keeping fans on their toes.
- Streaming and Production Quality: The high-quality production values made it easy for viewers to stay engaged and excited about the matches.
3. Smash Con
As the largest annual convention focused solely on Smash Bros., Smash Con is a celebration of all things Smash. It combines competition with community-building activities, such as panels, workshops, and casual play zones.
Highlights:
- Community Vibe: The festival atmosphere allowed fans to enjoy a weekend filled with their favorite games while connecting with fellow enthusiasts.
- Variety of Events: From the iconic 1v1 matches to fun crew battles and even low-tier tournaments, Smash Con catered to players of all skill levels.
- Fan Engagement: With meet-and-greet opportunities and interactive panels, fans had unique chances to bond with their favorite competitors.
4. CEO (Community Effort Orlando)
CEO has carved out a reputation as a premier esports event in the Southeast U.S. Known for its festive atmosphere and emphasis on community, it brings together diverse fighting games, including Smash.
Highlights:
- Creative Stage Designs: CEO is famous for its unique setups, such as the wrestling-themed stage inspired by the founder’s love for pro wrestling.
- Top-level Competition: Seasoned competitors like Armada and Zero have made headlines at this event, consistently raising the bar for performance.
- Side Events: With various side tournaments and unique game modes, CEO encourages all participants to engage and enjoy themselves, regardless of skill level.
5. PGR (Panda Global Rankings) Finals
The Panda Global Rankings serve as benchmarks for competitive Smash players, culminating in the PGR Finals that highlight the year’s top-ranked players. This event emphasizes skill and rigor in branding and tournament play.
Highlights:
- Skill Showcase: The Finals present the best of the best, allowing for high-stakes competition with huge implications for rankings.
- Innovative Formats: The use of round-robin pools leading to bracket play keeps matches unpredictable and exciting.
- Recognition and Awards: Beyond just bragging rights, top players are recognized and awarded, fostering motivation for continued competition in the future.
Conclusion
The landscape of competitive Super Smash Bros. continues to evolve, but the essence remains the same: community, excitement, and skill. The tournaments listed above exemplify the rich tapestry of experiences that contribute to the Smash Bros legacy, each bringing something unique to the table. As new tournaments emerge and more players enter the scene, the future of competitive Smash Bros looks brighter than ever. Whether you’re a fan, player, or casual observer, there’s always something to look forward to in the world of Smash.
