Skybox Technologies to test machine learning at BLAST Pro Series in 2020

Analysis and visualization company Skybox Technologies has launched a machine learning initiative for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive.

The competition will see artificial intelligence (AI) specialists test prediction models at BLAST Pro Series Copenhagen in 2020.

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The CS:GO.ai initiative is comprised of two competitions: one with a $5,000 (£3,859) reward for the team with the best code, and another for the top five participating teams which earns them an invitation to BLAST Pro Series in Copenhagen to run their code during matches. The winner of the latter will be announced before the grand final.

Ethan Cooper, CEO of Skybox Technologies commented on the initiative: “Through machine learning algorithms, the data teams will attempt to identify critical turning points in matches; if they can achieve strong results it will have direct use in live commentary as well as retrospectively for coaching. The CSGO.ai competition lets the esports fanbase combine their data skills with their passion for competitive gaming.

“Having the predictive algorithms of the top five teams compete on a global stage via the Blast Pro event will not only showcase the talent within the community but also identify the next data superstars; therefore, kickstarting or propelling promising careers. We are excited to see what the data teams can do and look forward to meeting the finalists in Copenhagen next year!”

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The competition is organised by Skybox Technologies and RFRSH Entertainment, in collaboration with Copenhagen Capacity. Participating teams will use “machine learning to recognise and predict specific in-game situations and state likely outcomes,” according to a release.

Jordi Roig, VP of Business Development and Relations at BLAST Pro Series added: “The international esports community is an extremely resourceful group of people. Young, talented, digitally savvy and often with a great sense of humor. We see that every day in many ways; through content creation, map development and also in our previous initative with Copenhagen Capacity. We are excited about this new initiative, bringing a BLAST host city and the international esports community closer together.”

Esports Insider says: Skybox Technologies has already produced some amazing work that we imagine will one day be commonplace in CS:GO – and perhaps other titles too? – and we must say that we’re impressed by this competition. Providing a platform for specialists and enthusiasts to get involved in a big event could be a big break for many involved.

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