The World Cyber Games, one of the major organizations of professional video game competition, has announced that Microsoft has agreed to serve as the official sponsor through 2008, providing hardware, software, Xbox Live online service, peripheral equipment, and marketing support for all WCG events.
The deal also asserts that Microsoft Windows and Xbox 360 will be the exclusive gaming platforms for the PC and console for the events, meaning that other console titles for Sony or Nintendo platforms will not figure in the competitions.
"Over the years, we have admired the incredible growth of cybersports and WCG's role in expanding the reach of these worldwide tournaments," said Peter Moore, corporate vice president, Interactive Entertainment and Devices Division, Microsoft. "Because of WCG's history as a truly global gaming competition, it was a logical choice to team up with them and extend the reach of these events even further."
Microsoft's sponsorship will cover all WCG events including three pan-regional championships, the Korean Championship, the USA Championship and the Grand Finals, which will be held from October 18-22 in Monza, Italy.
"We are very happy to announce Microsoft's status as a premier sponsor of the WCG for the next three years," said Hank Jeong, CEO of International Cyber Marketing. "Microsoft's support for the WCG further validates the growing global popularity of e-Sports. Having Microsoft as a partner reinforces the WCG's position as a pioneer of competitive gaming and as the premier event in global e-Sports."
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