Tom & Tony Cannon: The Birth of the FGC, Founding EVO, Riot Games, and 2XKO...
Jan 3, 2025
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Tom and Tony Cannon, the innovative duo behind EVO and creators of groundbreaking GGPO netcode, share their journey from arcade days to establishing the largest fighting game tournament. They discuss pivotal moments like the legendary 'Moment 37' and the challenges of fostering community in esports. The Cannons share their current work on 2XKO at Riot Games, translating League of Legends characters into fighting game mechanics. Their insights illuminate the evolution of competitive gaming and the importance of innovation and community engagement in shaping the future.
Tom and Tony Cannon transformed the struggling arcade scene into a thriving esports community by founding the Evolution Championship Series, or Evo.
Evo Moment 37 highlighted the emotional intensity of competitive fighting games, showcasing the deep connections and rivalries in the gaming community.
The development of rollback netcode by Tony Cannon improved online gameplay experiences, paving the way for broader participation and retention in fighting games.
Deep dives
Revival of the Arcade Scene
The arcade scene was struggling, prompting Tom and Tony Cannon to envision a new format that takes the arcade experience beyond its traditional settings. They initiated the Evolution Championship Series, or Evo, as a way to breathe new life into the fighting game community by creating tournaments that celebrate competition and skill. This evolution represented a shift from local arcade challenges to grand stages where players could face off in front of a larger audience. Their goal was not just to create a tournament but to build a legacy that would maintain the spirit of competition alive.
Iconic Moments and Community History
One pivotal moment discussed was Evo Moment 37, where a dramatic match between two top players, Justin Wong and Daigo Umehara, captivated the audience and redefined what competitive gaming could be. This moment showcased the sheer intensity and emotional investment involved in fighting games, leading to a significant communal response from fans. The Cannon brothers recognized how documentation and sharing of such defining experiences could elevate the fighting game community. They highlighted how the magic of rivalries and unexpected outcomes creates memorable moments, reinforcing community ties.
Overcoming Challenges in Tournament Organization
The journey to organize Evo was fraught with logistical challenges, including last-minute equipment issues that nearly derailed the tournament. One incident involved a vendor who switched their equipment order just hours before the event, necessitating a late-night scramble to find replacement TVs. Tom and Gilbert's heroic efforts to secure 30 CRT TVs from a Walmart 70 miles away highlighted their commitment to making the event a success, even when faced with obstacles. Such experiences underscored the importance of teamwork, support, and a willingness to improvise to ensure that the show could go on.
Community Evolution and Technological Advances
The podcast also delved into the evolution of the fighting game community from arcades to online play, emphasizing the need for better networking solutions to improve gameplay experiences. During this period, Tony developed GGPO, a program that aimed to tackle online latency issues in fighting games, thereby enhancing the competitive experience. This innovation stemmed from understanding both the technical aspects of programming and the emotional connection players have with their characters in combat. As online gaming became more prevalent, having robust netcode became essential for further growth and player retention.
A New Era with Riot Games
The discussion further transitioned to the formation of their indie game studio, Radiant, and their collaboration with Riot Games to create an innovative fighting game. The pioneering spirit they fostered for community engagement and player experience was now applied to utilizing existing IP from the League of Legends universe. This partnership allowed for the creation of characters that resonate with the audience while developing a social experience that mimics the camaraderie found in traditional arcades. Their shared commitment between developing technology and enhancing player connection positions them to be a significant force in the future of fighting games.
In this episode, Tom and Tony Cannon, the visionary brothers behind EVO, share their incredible journey from the fading days of arcades to creating the largest fighting game tournament in the world. Learn how these pioneers brought communities together, introduced innovative technologies like rollback netcode, and transitioned the fighting game scene to the global esports stage.
Discover behind-the-scenes stories of iconic moments like "Moment 37," their passion for preserving arcade culture, and how their experiences shaped the modern fighting game landscape. Whether you're a gamer, developer, or esports fan, this conversation is packed with inspiring insights and untold stories about perseverance, innovation, and the power of community.
📌 Topics Covered:
The evolution of arcade culture into esports.
Building EVO: The challenges and triumphs.
The invention of rollback netcode and its impact on online gaming.
Behind "Moment 37": Capturing a historic event.
Transitioning to console tournaments and the creation of new opportunities.
Launching indie projects like Rising Thunder and their integration into Riot Games.
The future of fighting games and the role of community-driven innovation.
How Riot Games is shaping their current project, 2XKO to revolutionize the genre
