The 33rd SEA Games in Thailand will feature four major esports titles across six medal events, with top national teams competing for gold from December 13 to 19.
The 33rd Southeast Asian Games (SEA Games) is set to kick off its esports events on December 13, 2025, at Chulalongkorn University in Bangkok. Marking the fourth consecutive appearance of esports at the biennial event, this year’s competition features four popular titles: Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB), Free Fire, Arena of Valor (AOV), and EA Sports FC Online.
With a mix of mobile and PC titles, the event will host both men’s and women’s categories for select games, offering a total of six gold medals.
Esports Titles at 33rd SEA Games
Mobile Legends: Bang Bang (MLBB)
MLBB remains a headline act with separate men’s and women’s tournaments.
- Men’s Event: Features 10 teams divided into two groups. The group stage (BO2) runs from December 14-16, followed by a single-elimination knockout stage. The semifinals and bronze medal match will be best-of-five (BO5), while the gold medal match will be best-of-seven (BO7) on December 17.
- Women’s Event: Includes 9 teams split into two groups. Similar to the men’s format, the group stage (BO2) determines the top three from each group who advance to the knockout stage. The finals are scheduled for December 18.
Free Fire
Making its debut at the SEA Games, Free Fire will see 12 national teams compete in a battle royale showdown.
- Format: The competition starts with a "Point Rush" stage on December 17, where teams earn daily "Headstart Points" based on their performance.
- Grand Final: All 12 teams advance to the grand final on December 18 to fight for the gold.
- Teams to Watch: Powerhouse nations like Indonesia and Thailand are fielding strong squads, with Indonesia sending two teams.
Arena of Valor (AOV)
AOV returns with both men’s and women’s categories, although the field is smaller compared to other titles.
- Participants: Both events feature four teams each.
- Schedule: The women’s event runs from December 15-16, followed by the men’s event from December 17-18.
- Format: Both categories follow a knockout format.
EA Sports FC Online
This PC-based football simulation game introduces a 1v1 format to the SEA Games esports lineup.
- Participants: Six nations will compete.
- Schedule: The tournament runs from December 13-14.
- Format: A single-elimination bracket will determine the winner.
Well, since its debut as a medal event in 2019, esports has become a staple of the SEA Games, drawing massive viewership and showcasing the region's competitive talent. With the 33rd edition in Thailand, fans can expect high-octane action as national pride is on the line. The next SEA Games will be held in Malaysia in 2027, promising an even bigger stage for esports athletes.