Just over four years ago, Microsoft acquired the esports tournament organization platform Start.gg, which was previously known as Smash.gg before its rebranding. Currently, Start.gg has announced that Microsoft no longer owns the platform and stated that it would “be returning to its roots as an independent company supporting grassroots and professional esports communities.”
Chris Glick—the co-founder of Smash.gg—disclosed the information on Medium and expressed gratitude towards Microsoft and Xbox for their support. He also highlighted that the platform will continue to collaborate with members of the original Smash.gg team alongside “grassroots tournament organizers, and engineers who are dedicated to enhancing the platform for the communities we serve.”
One of the significant changes moving forward is that starting on February 14, Start.gg will implement a registration fee to help cover the operational costs of running the platform. In addition to making this adjustment for the sustainability of the business, Start.gg will also be overhauling its user interface and tournament support.
“Since our inception back in 2015, our mission has always been to cultivate esports communities around the games that people are passionate about,” wrote Glick. “This mission remains central to everything we do, and we look forward to continuing our journey with you.”
Despite some declining trends