First official Smash Ultimate and Melee Championship Circuit in North America announced as Nintendo partners with Panda Global

Panda Global gave a little insight into the circuit itself, but says more details will follow later. They did however confirm online qualifying rounds and in-person qualifiers for both games. “This short series of events based in North America will kick off in 2022 and lead to a single championship with cash prizes for competitors in each Super Smash Bros. titles. More details around the events, how to qualify, where to watch, and others will come in the future.”

Not many people expected this collaboration, as Nintendo rarely ventures into nor endorses esports surrounding their games, with some exceptions of course. Seeing them set up a competition for both Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Super Smash Bros. Melee, with the latter being 20 years old yet still boasting a healthy community, it’s a great step forward for the scene.

We are proud to announce our partnership with @NintendoAmerica

In 2022 Panda will bring the first officially licensed circuit for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Super Smash Bros. Melee to North America.

More details for this short series of events with cash prizes coming later. pic.twitter.com/9PdW9ntfd6

— Panda (@PandaGlobal) November 18, 2021

According to Bill Trinen, the Senior Director of Product Marketing at Nintendo, this is a first step to creating a competitive environment for players and fans alike. “We are proud to stand with an organization like Panda Global to celebrate and support the ever-growing competitive Super Smash Bros. community and create a space where all players can test and hone their competitive skills.”

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