The Hearthstone World Championship is upon us and the stadium housing it, to put it lightly, is stunning. Reimagined as a massive stage (complete with digital video assets that react to what happens in the game) the Taipei Heping Basketball Gymnasium has transformed into the ultimate Hearthstone arena.
Over the course of the week, sixteen players from all over the world will be competing for the lions share of $1,000,000 and the title of the 2019 HCT world Champion. Thanks to the photography efforts of renowned esports photographer Helena Kristiansson (@DeaziD), we can show you a glimpse of this incredible stage and event!
Photo's by Blizzard Entertainment.
▲ The calm before the storm -- the stage is fitting for such a grand Hearthstone event.▲ Outside of the main venue, fans can win Hearthstone goodies via claw machines!▲ 16 will play, only 1 can win!▲ The Blizzard Gear Store is another thing for fans to enjoy between matches.▲ It wouldn't be Hearthstone without the ability for fans to emote!▲ These delicious looking Hearthstone treats are available to attendees who visit the Innkeeper!▲ I bet it smells tasty.▲ The stage creates the illusion of a live, animated board with players in the very center.▲ Media get their own high-rise to photograph the action.▲ The players, on top of preparing for Hearthstone, must be ready for the media blitz.▲ Arms crossed = esports ready.▲Players signed their names next to their portraits at the venue.▲ Sam "Milkfat" Braithwaite - Sr. Global Esports Franchise Lead for Hearthstone answering questions from the press.▲The final boss of Hearthstone swag: the world championship trophy.▲ This Championship is also the final send-off for the Conquest format in competitive play -- It's been fun!
