Published September 15, 2007

Competitors (188 of them!) arrived in Orlando, Florida today for the beginning of the World Cyber Games U.S. National Finals. From here, 22 of the best gamers will leave as members of Team USA, an elite group of gamers that will represent the United States at the WCG Grand Finals in Seattle next month.

Hanging out in the Competition Area.

In order to whittle 188 down to the 22 best players, it will take three days of fierce competition. In between matches the U.S. finalists joked around, tried out the upcoming Project Gotham Racing® 4, or faced off in Guitar Hero II™ just for fun. The morning was spent competing, catching up with old friends, and maybe taking in the thrill rides here at Universal Studios Orlando.

What time is it? It's gametime!

After a press conference attended by local media, it was time to officially kick off the action and welcome the players and spectators. Our own Major Nelson and Spike TV's Geoff Keighley co-hosted the Opening Ceremony onstage at Sound Stage 33, with a little help from TriXie and DJ Wheat from GGL.

Major Nelson and Geoff Keighley perform hosting duties.

Mr. Kim from World Cyber Games headquarters in Seoul, Korea came all the way to Florida to welcome the competitors and lead them in the Fair Play Oath:

We, as referees and players of the World Cyber Games 2005 USA Championship, hereby pledge the following:

• We will fully abide by the game regulations provided by the WCG Organizing Committee.
• We will display our best behavior and respect for others.
• We will uphold the principles of fair play and good sportsmanship.

And then it was on.

With that settled, Major Nelson said, "Let the games begin!"

We'll be here all weekend keeping you up to date on all the fun and competition from Florida, so stay tuned.

Article by TriXie