His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Bandar bin Sultan, Chairman of the Saudi Esports Federation and the newly appointed president of the International Esports Federation, opened up about the Federation's goals, the evolving esports landscape, and his personal connection to gaming.

Developing a well round gaming ecosystem

On the subject of the Saudi Esports Federation's vision, His Royal Highness emphasized the importance of enhancing the everyday experiences of young Saudi gamers. "It's about creating an ecosystem that nurtures not just competitive skills but personal and professional growth," he explained. He stressed the aim to develop a vibrant community that goes beyond gaming, focusing on talent development, mentorship, and a sense of belonging.

He expressed a desire to cultivate an environment where players can grow in all aspects of life, not just in their gaming skills. "We're looking to create a vibrant community where talent development and personal growth go hand in hand," he added.

Taking Gaming to new heights in Saudi Arabia

Reflecting on the industry's view of players, the prince noted a significant shift. "There's an increasing recognition of players as key stakeholders. We're seeing more player unions and associations that represent their interests," he remarked. He also highlighted the responsibility of gaming organizations to create positive environments for players, addressing issues such as mental health and promoting diversity.

Speaking about the impact of prize pools and the opportunity to compete across multiple titles, Prince Faisal pointed out that these factors contribute to creating compelling narratives and enriching content in the esports space. "This dynamic competition adds depth to the esports scene, enhancing the overall experience for fans and participants," he observed.

He also sees the transformative power of gaming in education and skill development. "We see gaming as a tool for fostering creativity, strategic thinking, and teamwork. We are exploring ways to integrate gaming into educational programs as a means of skill enhancement," he explained, underlining the potential of gaming to play a positive role in the country's educational landscape.

Bringing the Esports World Cup in 2024

On the subject of the Esports World Cup, Prince Faisal was enthusiastic about Saudi Arabia's role as a global esports nexus. "We're not just hosting a competition; we're aiming to bring together diverse gaming cultures and strengthen international ties through esports," he explained. He envisioned the event as more than just a showcase of Saudi Arabia’s esports capabilities but as a melting pot for global gaming talent.

The Motivation To Drive The Gaming Industry From Gamer

Closing the interview on a personal note, Prince Faisal shared his affinity for the Assassin's Creed series. "Various video games have resonated with me over the years, but Assassin's Creed holds a special place. It’s been a significant part of my gaming journey," he shared, highlighting his personal connection to the gaming world.