Defend the North announces multi-title brawl in NYC

For fighters in the northeast, EVO in Las Vegas is a long drive. Fortunately for tri-state denizens, Team PIE is bringing multi-title action to them.

The second annual Defend the North, announced this morning, has all the makings of a “mini-EVO” in one of fighting games’ most populous regions. Hosting Killer Instinct, Ultra Street Fighter 4, Mortal Kombat X, Super Smash Bros. WiiU and Melee, and Marvel vs Capcom 3, the Oct. 25 tournament is already looking worth a trek for esports enthusiasts.

Team PIE, sponsors of prolific Street Fighter competitor Bryant “Smug” Huggins, even secured Capcom Qualifier status for the event. This means that placement during the event awards players with circuit points, helping to secure qualification for the Capcom Cup at the culmination of the Capcom Pro Tour.

Most notably, the event’s near end-of-year date will likely position it as a last-chance opportunity for players looking to secure a spot at the final. With four players already qualified and $500,000 in total prizes over the duration of the tour, premier events are quickly becoming mandatory for serious contenders.

With coverage by well-known broadcast house Team Spooky and notable participants Sanford Kelly, Du “Nuckledu” Dang, and EVO 2014 Killer Instinct champion Emmanuel “CDjr” Brito already announced, Defend the North promises to offer a cavalcade of esports’ finest fighters.

Correction: The original version of this article incorrectly labeled Defend the North as a Capcom Premier event. It is actually a Capcom Qualifier event. We regret the error.