Around the world, e-sports has evolved into a billion dollar industry, creating careers in gaming, streaming, event management and digital content. In Pakistan however, it is still often dismissed as “wasting time” a perception that holds back both talent and economic potential.
We have already seen what our players can achieve. Arsalan Siddiqui, a Tekken legend, recently won his sixth Evolution Championship Series year 2025 title in Las Vegas. Sumail Hassan is among the world’s highest-earning players after major Dota 2 victories. Abdur Rehman Atif has gained global recognition in Call of Duty: Warzone, winning titles across EU, EMEA and NA regions.
If the government and private sector invest in high speed internet, professional gaming arenas, training academies and national leagues, more youngsters from Pakistan could come up. With proper recognition and support, e-sports could become a thriving industry creating jobs, attracting tourism through international tournaments and placing Pakistan on the global gaming map.
E-sports is not the future it is the present. The question is whether Pakistan will lead the game or just watch from the sidelines.
Laraib Imdad
Karachi
