Malaysia wins Magic Chess: Go Go esports debut at SEA Games 2025

Magic Chess: Go Go, which released globally just last May, has made its debut at the SEA Games 2025 in Thailand, a multi-sport event sanctioned by the Southeast Asian Games Federation (SEAGF).

While MCGG’s tournament was not a medal event, the game put on a showmatch featuring four countries: Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines.

This was the first time an auto-chess title was featured at the SEA Games, which first included esports as a discipline in 2019.

Each of the four participating countries were represented by two players each. They competed across five matches, with the average standings of all teams determining the winner. Eventually, it was Malaysia who took first place, which was cemented by a match victory from Muhamad Arif Bin Baharun.

“I was excited to be part of the MCGG at the 33rd SEA Games, as it is the dream of every MCGG player, said Arif Bin Baharun.

“We have been playing this game and training hard to be part of it. This shows that everyone has a chance, and I hope that our participation motivates everyone who watched us.”

Indonesia came in second place, while the home duo of Thailand took the last podium place.

MCGG’s tournament at the SEA Games comes as its developer, MOONTON, has continued to push the auto-chess title’s esports scene. The game, which features characters from Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, also announced its first world championship, which will happen on January 25th at MLBB’s M7 Carnival.

For its 2025 edition, the SEA Games will feature four games across six medal events: Arena of Valour, Mobile Legends: Bang Bang, Free Fire and FC Online. MLBB and Arena of Valor will have separate tournaments for male and female players, therefore rewarding two gold medals each.

These events are scheduled from December 13th to 19th. The Philippines will be looking to extend its overall esports medal tally from 15, while Indonesia will be looking to snatch the top position as the country currently sits at 13 medals.