There’s no question that the face of eSports has changed quite a bit over the years, with games like DOTA 2 and League of Legends drawing millions of fans and getting special tournaments where large cash prizes are at stake. But there’s another arena where players are gathering and creating a large, robust community – fighting games.

A number of tournaments, like the Capcom Cup, celebrate the art form of the fighting game, but there’s no bigger stage for the medium than EVO, a yearly tournament that takes place in Las Vegas and brings the best tournament players from around the world to compete in a variety of games, including Capcom staples like Street Fighter IV and Ultimate Marvel vs. Capcom 3.

This year’s tournament, which takes place from July 15-17 at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas, should be bigger than ever. Not only are older favorites coming back to the tournament, but companies are bringing some of their biggest releases as well, including Bandai Namco’s forthcoming Tekken 7 and WB Games’ Mortal Kombat X, which releases in April.

Over the years, EVO has become quite big with popularity, not only with in-person attendees who get into the rhythm of each match and cheer on its combatants, but also with an online audience, as millions of fans flock to EVO’s Twitch channel to see the action happen live. And it’s getting bigger with each year.

Not only is the fighting community staying loyal to EVO, but also companies. Last year, the tournament was host to Bandai Namco’s initial Tekken 7 announcement, which created huge buzz in the industry. Nintendo has also turned around its thoughts on the tournament, at first not allowing organizers to use their Super Smash Bros. games, but later changing its mind and embracing the idea of competition. (This year’s tournament will include two Smash Bros. games, including the much-beloved Super Smash Bros. Melee for GameCube – a favorite amongst hardcore fighting fans.)

And, of course, Twitch makes an ideal business partner for a tournament such as this, allowing those who couldn’t make it in person to see each match as it happens, with live commentary from Joey “MrWizard” Cuellar and others. It’s a highly energetic experience that fans get into every year – with a larger growing base with each new tournament.

News outlets have also picked up on certain stories coming out of EVO, like in 2011, when an 8-year old named Noah (Child Prodigy) managed to work his way up the ranks. Considering the tournament is open to a number of players (and not just pros), it’s great to see such folks get their opportunity to shine.

So, yes, EVO 2015 will be a big deal when it takes place this summer, once again attracting the fighting elite and their loyal fans as they mix it up in a number of titles. You can bet companies will be on hand as well with their titles and accessories, as well as plenty of news generating from the event, including more on Tekken 7, which should launch for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One sometime later this year.

Those interested in learning more about EVO can do so here. Key moments from last year’s tournament can be found below.