Evo 2026 is struggling to attract as many competitors
Evo 2026, the world’s largest fighting game tournament held annually in Las Vegas, is experiencing a significant decline in competitor participation compared to the previous year. According to registration numbers released on June 12, the event is attracting fewer players across its marquee titles.
Street Fighter 6 saw the most dramatic drop, drawing 2,414 competitors this year compared to 4,228 at Evo 2025—representing approximately a 43% decrease in participation. Other popular fighting games including Tekken 8 and Guilty Gear Strive also experienced notable declines in sign-ups.
The decline is concerning for the fighting game industry, as Evo serves as more than just a competitive event. Major developers including Capcom and Bandai Namco use the tournament as a platform for announcements and character reveals, making the event a significant touchstone for the broader gaming community. The reduction in competitors could signal shifting interest in competitive fighting games or potential challenges within the esports landscape.