Get ready, chess enthusiasts – there’s a new way to engage with your favorite game coming soon! Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, in collaboration with Norway Chess and Iterate, Norway’s top venture builder, has announced their latest joint venture: Pawn. This new initiative aims to unite chess lovers worldwide, offering an exciting and diverse community for players of all skill levels.
Pawn’s debut product is the global Fantasy Chess app, which allows users to connect with the game in innovative ways. Just like traditional fantasy sports leagues, Fantasy Chess invites participants to view the game from the perspective of the pieces, encouraging everyone – from amateurs to grandmasters – to compete alongside professionals.
Carlsen, a self-proclaimed fan of fantasy football, is eager to bring his passion for the virtual sports realm to the world of chess. “We are only in the initial phase of what’s possible,” he said, expressing his excitement for the project. “The goal is to be able to spread the sport of chess to new markets and environments.”
The Fantasy Chess app is set to launch an invite-only beta at Norway Chess 2023, the prestigious super-tournament taking place at the end of May. To stay updated on the latest news about Pawn, be sure to visit their website.
Norway Chess, the organization behind this partnership, was established in 2013 and has since hosted a range of events, including the annual super-tournament in Stavanger, an international open competition, and the Norway Summit, which brings together business leaders, innovators, and decision-makers from various industries.
Meanwhile, Iterate has been at the forefront of nurturing groundbreaking ideas and turning them into successful ventures. With a diverse team of experts, ranging from coders and Michelin chefs to industry executives, Iterate has explored over 100 concepts and launched more than 30 promising startups in the past eight years.
With the combined expertise of Norway Chess, Iterate, and Magnus Carlsen, Pawn is poised to revolutionize the chess experience for fans around the world. As we eagerly await the release of the Fantasy Chess app, there’s no doubt that this venture is set to make waves in the global chess community!