#Japan #Nagoya #esports #KDDI #ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE

KDDI Partners with ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE for 2025

KDDI Corporation has proudly announced its role as an official partner for the highly anticipated Second ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE, organized by Chubu Telecommunications Co., Ltd., set to take place in August 2025. This collaboration aims to foster connection and enhance career opportunities among participating students from high school through postgraduate education.

KDDI's strategic direction, defined by "KDDI VISION 2030," focuses on evolving the power of connection to create a society where everyone can achieve their aspirations. Central to this vision is a commitment to sustainability and a strengthened management foundation that supports the company's new satellite growth strategy. Through partnerships, KDDI aims to foster sustainable growth and enhance corporate value.

Purpose of the ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE

The ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE is more than just an eSports competition; it’s a platform for interaction among students across different educational stages—from high schoolers to graduate students. This initiative aims to leverage the unique qualities of eSports to create networking and career development opportunities.

By connecting students with industry partners, the league will help bridge the gap between education and employment, allowing for information exchange and face-to-face interactions with some of the leading companies in the sector. Additionally, KDDI hopes to encourage students’ involvement in eSports while promoting responsible engagement in the gaming community.

What is the ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE?

The ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE is a stage where future heroes are born, pushing students to compete fiercely and strive for the No. 1 spot in eSports. It transcends school boundaries, allowing participants to rally together for high-stakes competitions. By fostering diverse roles such as sponsors, commentators, and organizers, the league aims to help students discover their passions and grow personally and professionally—shaping future leaders and professionals in the eSports landscape.

Key Features of the League

1. Broad Participation: The league is designed to accommodate a diverse range of students, including high school, vocational, undergraduate, and postgraduate students—promoting inclusivity and excitement within the competitive scene.

2. Offline Networking Opportunities: By hosting competitions at sponsor company offices, the league will facilitate real-world interactions between students and companies, providing them with valuable exposure to potential future employers and innovative industry insights.

3. Encouraging eSports Literacy: KDDI is committed to fostering a sense of responsibility among participants, encouraging a sportsmanship ethos comparable to traditional athletics, thus nurturing an awareness of compliance within the eSports field.

Tournament Overview

• - Participants: High school students, vocational students, undergraduate and postgraduate students residing in Japan.
• - Expected Teams: Up to 128 teams in Pokémon UNITE and Street Fighter 6, and 100 teams in IdentityV.
• - Game Titles: Pokémon UNITE, Street Fighter 6, and IdentityV.
• - Total Prize Pool: 3 million yen.
• - Tournament Schedule:

- Pokémon UNITE: Stages planned from October to December 2025.
- Street Fighter 6: Stages from October to December 2025.
- IdentityV: Stages from October to December 2025.

The tournament will be hosted in a hybrid format, utilizing online and on-site platforms, including esports arenas in Tokyo and Nagoya, along with corporate sponsor facilities.

How to Participate

Applications began on August 7, 2025, through the official website. Interested students can stay updated about tournament details through the link provided on the official site: ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE Official Website.

Featured Game Descriptions

1. Pokémon UNITE: A team strategy battle game where players partner to score points and compete against each other, available on Nintendo Switch and smartphones.
2. Street Fighter 6: The latest installment in the renowned fighting game series, pushing boundaries with its innovative graphics and gameplay mechanics, catering to both competitive and casual players.
3. IdentityV: An asymmetrical multiplayer game beloved worldwide, characterized by its unique narrative and strategic gameplay, immersing players in a thrilling chase between survivors and hunters.

KDDI's Commitment to Society

KDDI operates numerous services in Japan under brands such as au, UQ mobile, and povo, alongside KDDI BUSINESS for corporate clients. The company is dedicated to enhancing social value through its commitment to 5G connectivity, focusing on sustainability and community development in line with KDDI VISION 2030. The strategic plan emphasizes growth through digital innovation and eSports, driving continued expansion and engagement in Japan’s dynamic digital landscape.

In conclusion, KDDI's partnership with the ExCROSS BLUE LEAGUE exemplifies its dedication to cultivating a vibrant eSports scene while supporting the next generation's career aspirations.