Core Insights - The article highlights the significance of esports as a powerful symbol of globalization, attracting young tourists and enhancing a city's international influence [1] Group 1: Event Announcement - A major esports event, the BLAST DOTA2 Grand Slam, will be co-hosted in Chengdu in December 2023 by BLAST, Chengdu Radio and Television Station, and Chengdu Broadcasting and Television Group [1][2] - The BLAST Grand Slam is an international esports tournament created in collaboration with DOTA2 developer Valve, with the first three events held in Europe before moving to Chengdu in 2025 [1][2] Group 2: Strategic Importance - Chengdu was chosen for the event due to its rich cultural heritage, superior infrastructure, and mature esports environment, marking it as a significant esports destination [1][2] - BLAST aims to tap into the rapidly growing Chinese esports market, which is one of its fastest-growing audience markets [2][4] Group 3: Event Details - The total prize pool for the tournament is set at $1 million, featuring 12 top-ranked teams from various global regions, including China, Southeast Asia, and Europe [2][3] - The event will consist of online qualifiers from November 25 to 30, followed by the main event from December 5 to 7, with live audience attendance and global streaming in over 50 countries [3] Group 4: Local Impact and Collaboration - The event provides a platform for local DOTA2 teams to compete against international teams, enhancing the local esports scene [3] - A three-year strategic cooperation agreement was signed between Chengdu Broadcasting Group and BLAST to bring more international esports events to Chengdu [5] Group 5: Industry Development - Chengdu has a history of hosting major international sports events and has been recognized as China's "Esports Cultural Capital" [3][6] - The city has introduced policies to support the esports industry, including financial incentives for esports clubs and event hosting, fostering a robust esports ecosystem [6]