The absence of Super Smash Bros† from Evo later this year is a bit of a downer for some. Nintendo officially pulled out of the massive fighting game tournament earlier this year, months after Sony bought the Evolution Championship Series. That doesn’t mean fans will have to miss out on some smashing action this summer, though.
The Panda Cup has been officially announced – an officially Nintendo-licensed North American track where 32 of the best players from Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Super Smash Bros. Melee will compete against each other on multiple dates.
The track kicks off at Evo’s rival live CEO on June 24, making eight stops before stopping in Los Angeles for the Last Chance Qualifiers and the Finals, which will determine the best Ultimate and Melee player. There will also be online qualifiers for Ultimate. commencing in July through October, with dates yet to be announced.
- June 24 to 26: CEO (Daytona, Florida)
- July 1 to 3: Get On My Level (Toronto)
- July 29 to 31: Smash Factor 9 (Cholula, Puebla)
- Lost Tech City (San Antonio, Texas)
- October 7-9: The Big Hours 10 (Detroit)
- October 28 to 30: Let’s Make Moves (Miami)
- November 12 to 13: Mr. Save Lombardi 3 (Irvine, California)
- November 18 to 20: Dreamhack Atlanta (Atlanta)
- December 15: Panda Cup Final Last Chance Qualifier (Los Angeles)
- December 16 to 18: Panda Cup Final (Los Angeles)
Although Nintendo licenses the tournament, it is “not a sponsor, co-sponsor or administrator of this tournament”. There is over $100,000 dollars up for grabs, and the prize pool will be split between the winners of the Ultimate and Melee tournaments.
You can find more information about the Panda Cup on the official website.
Are you going to watch any of these events? Are you happy to see a new, official Smash tournament? Let us know in the comments.
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