Skybox Technologies will test machine learning at BLAST Pro Series

Analysis and visualization company Skybox Technologies has launched a machine learning initiative for Counter-Strike: Global Offensive. In a partnership with RFRSH Entertainment, Skybox will have its AI specialists test prediction models during next year’s BLAST Pro Series Copenhagen. 

The collaboration will consist of two CS:GO.ai competitions. The first will award $5,000 to the team with the best code, while the second competition will have the top five teams earn invitations to BLAST Pro Series Copenhagen to run their code during matches. The winner of the second competition will receive their reward before the Grand Finals. 

Skybox Technologies CEO, Ethan Cooper commented on the initiative: 

"Through machine learning algorithms, the data teams will attempt to identify critical turning points in matches; if they can achieve strong results, it will have a direct use in live commentary as well as retrospectively for coaching. The CSGO.ai competition lets the esports fanbase combine their data skills with their passion for competitive gaming."

"Having the predictive algorithms of the top five teams compete on a global stage via the Blast Pro event will not only showcase the talent within the community but also identify the next data superstars; therefore, kickstarting or propelling promising careers. We are excited to see what the data teams can do and look forward to meeting the finalists in Copenhagen next year!"

In the competition, machine learning will be used by participating teams to recognize and predict specific in-game situations, to determine likely outcomes. This data will help in improving not just CS:GO but possibly even other games.

BLAST Pro Series VP of Business Development and Relations, Jordi Roig also commented on the collaboration: 

"The international esports community is an extremely resourceful group of people. Young, talented, digitally savvy, and often with a great sense of humor. We see that every day in many ways; through content creation, map development, and also in our previous initiative with Copenhagen Capacity. We are excited about this new initiative, bringing a BLAST host city and the international esports community closer together."

CS:GO.ai is organized by Skybox Technologies and RFRSH Entertainment, in collaboration with Copenhagen Capacity.