In response to ongoing threats, Nintendo has canceled “Nintendo Live 2024 TOKYO” and postponed major esports events, including “Splatoon Koshien 2023” and “Splatoon 3 World Championship 2024.”
Nintendo Live 2024 Tokyo has been cancelled due to threats received at Nintendo
– Threats made against Nintendo staff and spectators
– Event was due to take place at Tokyo Big Sight in Jan 2024
– Splatoon & Mario Kart tournaments have been postponedhttps://t.co/Wjjng4qPuA pic.twitter.com/fp8CRlxtO7— Genki✨ (@Genki_JPN) December 7, 2023
The threats, targeting employees, spectators, and staff, have forced the company to prioritize safety. These unexpected changes significantly impact the global eSports community, stirring concerns and reactions.
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Unprecedented threats lead to drastic measures
Nintendo’s decision is primarily driven by the escalating threats its employees have faced, which have recently extended to spectators, staff, and attendees of its upcoming events. The safety of all involved has been cited as the paramount concern, prompting the company to take these drastic but necessary steps.
“Our company has been persistently receiving threats targeting our employees, and recently, the targets of these threats have spread to spectators, staff, etc., of the “Splatoon Koshien 2023 National Finals.”
The postponement impacts several critical events linked to the “Splatoon Koshien 2023 National Finals,” including the “Splatoon 3 World Championship 2024.” The “Nintendo Live 2024 TOKYO,” scheduled for January 20–21, 2024, has also been canceled. This event was set to host the “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe Online Challenge Final Stage” and the “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe World Championship 2024,” which are now postponed.
“The implementation of “Splatoon 3 World Championship 2024” linked to “Splatoon Koshien 2023 National Finals” will also be postponed.”
Ramifications for the Gaming Community
This news has caused a stir in the gaming community, with many fans expressing disappointment and concern. The “Splatoon Koshien” and “Nintendo Live” events have been significant fixtures in the esports calendar, offering a competitive play and community engagement platform. The postponement and cancellation of these events leave a void in the esports schedule and raise questions about the future of such events in the face of security threats.
Moreover, Nintendo has expressed regret over the inconvenience caused by these changes and has thanked its fans for their understanding. The company remains committed to ensuring the safety of all those involved in its events and is working towards rescheduling the postponed tournaments.
“We apologize for the inconvenience and thank you for your understanding.”
Additionally, the firm has assured that updates on the new dates for each event will be announced on their official website and social media channels once decided upon. This leaves fans in a state of anticipation, hoping for a swift resolution so they can once again participate in these beloved events.
“The postponed dates of each event will be announced on our website and official X account once they have been decided.”
Looking forward
While the postponement and cancellation of these events are undoubtedly disappointing, Nintendo’s focus on safety is commendable. In an era where online threats can quickly escalate to real-world consequences, the company’s decision to prioritize the well-being of its community is a responsible one.
This situation brings to light an important question: how will Nintendo and the broader esports community address the issue of safety at large-scale events? As we await the rescheduled dates and further announcements from Nintendo, this question remains pivotal for the industry.
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