Like so many other events the annual fighting championship series, Evo, was hit by COVID-19 concerns. The 2020 edition of the show was to be moved online despite the many challenges of playing competitive fighting titles online. But it will no longer happen that way either, but unfortunately, it is not because of COVID, but something far worse.

If you’re unfamiliar, many of those who identify themselves as being in the ‘Fighting Game Community’ have had a rash of allegations thrown at them, including many directly involved with the Evo organization. It’s generally not our wheelhouse to get into those types of matters, but it would be impossible to cover it all in one story anyway. Ranging from sexual assault to rape to pedophilia, it’s been shocking what has come to light.

Because of that, all major companies that are typically involved with Evo have pulled out. Because of this, as you can see below, an official statement came that the event will no longer take place. It’s unclear what the future of Evo looks like after this, if there is a future at all.

https://twitter.com/EVO/status/1278859734099963904?s=20

Prestigious fighting game tournament Evo 2020 has been canceled. Much like other events canceled earlier this year, the organizers have cited the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic as the main culprit. To “keep the Evo spirit alive”, there will be online event taking place instead. Refunds will be issued for tickets purchased.

While the safety and health of participants is important, it remains to be seen whether an online event will be a good replacement. Several of the titles selected for this year’s Evo including Dragon Ball FighterZ, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate and Samurai Shodown have notoriously poor netcode. Other titles like Street Fighter 5 Champion Edition, Soulcalibur 6 and Tekken 7 are somewhat better though this still won’t replace the experience of playing on-site.

We’ll have to wait and see how things pan out regardless. Evo 2020 joins the likes of E3 2020 and SXSW 2020 which have been canceled due to COVID-19 concerns. Others like GDC 2020 and Gamescom 2020 are opting for digital experiences, with several other online events like IGN’s Summer of Gaming, the Summer Gaming Fest, and Microsoft’s upcoming Inside Xbox filling the gap. Stay tuned for more details on Evo’s plans in the coming weeks.

A message from the Evo team… pic.twitter.com/ANXUXDiNGK

— Evo (@Evo) May 1, 2020