#Japan #Tokyo #Gaming #SEGA #Puyo Puyo

Young Pro Gamers in Japan Make History

In a remarkable achievement for the Japanese eSports scene, two young players have secured professional licenses for the popular puzzle game series "Puyo Puyo." The players, Yuki and Kii-kun, are the first elementary school students to earn this distinction, recognized by the Japan eSports Union (JESU). This new milestone highlights the evolving nature of competitive gaming and sets a precedent for younger gamers in the industry.

Background of the Achievement

Sega, the company behind "Puyo Puyo," has changed its operational regulations to allow for younger players to obtain professional licenses following revisions made by JESU. Previously, there were age restrictions preventing players from under a certain age from being recommended for pro licenses, despite their successful performances at Sega’s official tournaments. However, the new regulations mean that players showing exceptional skills in designated competitions, including Yuki and Kii-kun, can now be nominated for pro status.

Profiles of the Players

Yuki (10 years old, from Tokyo)

• - Major Achievements:

- Champion at the 2023 National Prefectural eSports Championship (Elementary School Division).
- Champion at the 2024 National Prefectural eSports Championship.
- Winner of the Puyo Puyo Global Ranking Match.
- Finalist in the Puyo Puyo Ranking Pro Selection Tournament 2025.

Yuki expressed his excitement about becoming a pro: "I am thrilled to become the player I always wanted to be. I wish to promote Puyo Puyo further. I will do my best!"

Kii-kun (10 years old, from Saitama)

• - Major Achievements:

- Competitor in the 2022 National Prefectural eSports Championship (Elementary School Division).
- Reached the top 4 in the 2023 competition.
- Grand Champion of the Puyo Puyo Gigo Cup Season 3.

Kii-kun stated, "I will strive to deliver entertaining gameplay for those watching!"

Implications of the New Regulations

With the update to the JESU’s professional license regulations taking effect on February 26, 2026, Sega revisited its operational rules to facilitate pro license acquisition for elementary school age players. Notably, the company emphasizes its commitment to support young players of eSports while ensuring their wellbeing.

Guidelines to Support Young Players

1. Collaboration with Parents:
Sega plans to maintain strong communication with parents regarding the granting of pro licenses and any significant decisions affecting minors. To safeguard the interests of underage players, the company will involve parents in contract discussions and financial agreements.

2. Consideration for Education and Lifestyle:
The company will avoid recommending any players below elementary school age and will regulate tournament schedules to ensure they do not interfere with the players' academic and personal lives.

3. Respect for Personal Choice:
Participation in tournaments and the pursuit of licenses will remain voluntary, respecting the desires and intentions of both players and their guardians.

Sega’s Commitment to eSports

Sega’s engagement in eSports dates back to the establishment of the Japan eSports Union in 2018, featuring titles such as "Puyo Puyo" and "Virtua Fighter". Events like the Puyo Puyo Championship and the National Prefectural eSports Championship have successfully attracted a considerable range of players, from children to seniors. The recent surge in community tournaments and international competitions reflects the growing excitement surrounding eSports worldwide.

Looking forward to 2026, which marks the 35th anniversary of "Puyo Puyo," Sega continues to expand its outreach, focusing on not just competitive gaming but also educative initiatives like the "Puyo Puyo Programming" learning materials used in over 1,000 schools nationwide.

As Sega and its young players pave the way for the future of eSports, the excitement around titles like "Puyo Puyo" remains strong, promising engaging experiences for all participants and fans alike.

For more information, you can visit Puyo Puyo eSports Official Site.

Sega's official website can be found here.