Championship Video Gaming

Video games have become a treasured pastime around the world with the increased capabilities of computers and console units. Massive multiplayer online role playing games (MMORPG) have a fan base into the millions with World of Warcraft being the biggest draw of the day for online role playing.



Although a gamer myself I could not help but be shocked when I logged on to a website to setup my weekly television recordings for my HD DVR. There was a rotating banner of current events showing on the satellite television lineup. Listed just three items below the Olympics was the Championship Gaming Series. Being a computer geek there was no doubt that this was referring to video gaming. After a little bit of research I discovered that professional video gaming is alive and well today.

I remember the laughter that followed when we discovered that our son's school roommate had decided to ignore his studies to play Halo and pursue his desire to become a professional video gamer. Little did we know at the time there was such a job. Although the championship prize for the 2008 Championship Gaming Series (CGS) brought in a grand prize of $500,000, we are rejoicing that our son has his feet planted firmly off the ground in his aviation pursuits.

The Championship Gaming Series was aired on Direct TV's 101 Network. This channel also broadcasts exclusive shows like Friday Night Lights, Concerts, Rock & A Hard Place, and Supreme Court of Comedy. CGS is the first professional video gaming league with a structure that resembles sports leagues. The league consists of teams with general managers and contracted players. Cities across North America, Latin America, Europe, Asia, Australia and even the Middle East are represented in the league.

CGS events are seen by over 350 million people worldwide. Each team has ten players which each specialize in a specific game. 2008 marks the second year of the league. The 2008 North American CGS finals have already occurred between the Dallas Venom and the Carolina Core. The Core came out the victor. The World Final Championship was held on July 28. Birmingham Salvo won the Mountain Dew Championship Trophy and a grand prize of $500,000.

Fans and interested viewers can tune in next spring for the CGS Training Camp coverage and follow the 2009 gaming series each winner. Video gamers who want to try their hand at competing for a spot in the league can log in to the CGS website and register for the Pro-Am to show off their gaming skills.