The Esports Foundation has unveiled the full game lineup for the inaugural Esports Nations Cup 2026 (ENC), confirming 16 titles that will define one of the largest nation-based esports competitions to date.
Set to take place in Riyadh from November 2 to 29, 2026, the tournament is expected to attract over 100,000 players competing in qualification events across more than 100 markets worldwide.
The lineup reflects a broad and inclusive approach to global esports, spanning mobile, PC, console, and even strategy-based titles. Featured games include Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, VALORANT, Honor of Kings, League of Legends, Dota 2, PUBG MOBILE, and Counter-Strike 2, alongside titles such as Apex Legends, Rocket League, and Street Fighter 6.
Notably, the inclusion of Chess highlights the ENC’s effort to bridge traditional and digital competitive formats, expanding its reach across diverse gaming communities.
According to Fabian Scheuermann, the lineup was designed not just around top-tier titles but to maximize global participation. By combining games popular in different regions, the ENC aims to create a truly inclusive international stage for players and fans alike.
The competition introduces a structured, nation-based format to complement existing club-level tournaments, enabling countries to build national teams, develop talent pipelines, and compete under a unified global framework.
Backing this initiative is a $45 million funding commitment, including a $20 million prize pool distributed directly to players and coaches. The tournament also introduces a standardized payout system, offering equal rewards across all titles, with $50,000 awarded per player for first place, $30,000 for second, and $15,000 for third.
As esports continues to evolve into a globally organized competitive ecosystem, the Esports Nations Cup represents a significant step toward institutionalizing national representation—bringing together diverse gaming communities under one international competition.
