Genesis 7 officially partners with Nintendo of America

Genesis 7 has announced Nintendo of America as an official sponsor for the annual event's 2020 edition. This news comes as a welcome surprise since Nintendo has usually distanced itself from the fighting game community and its events.  

This isn't the first support Genesis 7 has received from the developer, though, as it partnered with Nintendo Versus, the competitive branch of the company, in 2019. That collaboration had the top two winners from three regions win travel expenses and $350 money cards to attend Genesis 7. 

Coming on the heels of Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa's statement regarding the developer's stance on esports, which wasn't taken favorably by fans, the news should win some back into their arms. There's also the unorthodox prizing decision for Super Smash Bros. Ultimate at EVO Japan 2020, which further strained the relationship between Nintendo and the FGC.  

Whether this partnership is a result of negative feedback, a change of heart, or part of their master plan, it's still a good step in the right direction.