Wikipedia - Intel Extreme Masters

The Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) is a series of international esports tournaments held in countries around the world. These Electronic Sports League (ESL) sanctioned events, sponsored by Intel, as of 2024 currently host events in Counter-Strike 2 and StarCraft II. Other game titles were hosted in the past. The body that owns the league is Savvy Games Group. The League has operated 17 seasons as of 2023. The highest tier of events, known as Masters Championships, are held in the summer in Cologne, Germany and in the new year in Katowice, Poland and offer the most prize money. Other events, known as Masters events, are held in numerous cities around the globe, which have included Dallas, Shanghai and Sydney.

History

Intel Extreme Masters Katowice 2013

The Intel Extreme Masters are a product of the ESL. In 2006, when the Intel sponsored European tournament saw room for expansion outside of Europe, especially in North American markets, Intel provided funds for a worldwide tournament, billing it as the Intel Extreme Masters. In 2007, when established, the IEM established a format of many smaller qualifying events, leading up to a large final event that is held at CeBIT. All of the Grand Finals have been held at CeBIT. Starting in 2008, the Tournament was billed as being worldwide, boasting participants from Europe, North America, and Asia. Although Counterstrike 1.6 was the only game offered in the first season, the variety of games has increased greatly, to the four that were offered during Season 5. World of Warcraft was offered during Season 4, but was dropped for Season 5. The Season 5 Finals will be held at CeBIT and will included a US$130,000 prize pool.

Games offered in Intel Extreme Masters: Counter-Strike (Seasons 1–6), Warcraft 3: Reign of Chaos and Warcraft 3: The Frozen Throne (Seasons 1–2, 3: Asian Championship Finals — CS1.6 and Asian Championship Finals — WoW, 4: Global Challenge Chengdu, 5: Global Challenge Shanghai), World of Warcraft (Seasons 2: Global Challenge Dreamhack, 3–4), Quake Live (Seasons 4–5), StarCraft II (Seasons 5–6), League of Legends (LoL) (Seasons 5: World Championship (LoL Invitational), 6)

CS:GO - IEM Katowice is an electrifying esports tournament that showcases the pinnacle of competitive Counter-Strike: Global Offensive gameplay. Held annually in the vibrant city of Katowice, Poland, this tournament brings together the world's best CS:GO teams to battle it out for glory, fame, and a substantial prize pool.

IEM Katowice is organized by Intel Extreme Masters (IEM), one of the most prestigious esports event organizers globally. With a rich history dating back to 2014, this tournament has become a staple in the CS:GO competitive scene, attracting millions of viewers and avid fans from around the world.

The tournament takes place in the iconic Spodek Arena, a massive indoor stadium that sets the stage for intense matches and unforgettable moments. The arena's state-of-the-art facilities and immersive atmosphere create an unparalleled experience for both players and spectators alike.

CS:GO - IEM Katowice features a format that combines group stages, playoffs, and a grand final. The participating teams, carefully selected through regional qualifiers and invitations, battle it out in a round-robin group stage to secure their spot in the playoffs. The playoffs feature intense single-elimination matches, where every round is a do-or-die situation for the teams.

The competition is fierce, as the world's top CS:GO teams showcase their skills, strategies, and teamwork in a bid to claim the championship title. The matches are filled with nail-biting moments, clutch plays, and tactical brilliance, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats throughout the tournament.

Not only does CS:GO - IEM Katowice offer thrilling gameplay, but it also provides a platform for the esports community to come together. The event features a bustling expo area, where fans can engage with their favorite teams, meet professional players, and explore the latest gaming technologies and merchandise.

CS:GO - IEM Katowice is more than just a tournament; it is a celebration of esports and its passionate community. It brings together players, fans, and industry professionals from all corners of the globe, creating an unforgettable experience that showcases the true potential of competitive gaming.