IEM

What gaming event does IEM stand for?

Intel Extreme Masters

IEM is a long-running global Esports tournament series sponsored by Intel. First launched in 2006 by ESL (Electronic Sports League), IEM brings together some of the world's top competitive gamers to face off in major titles like StarCraft II (SC2), Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), and occasionally League of Legends (LoL). The events are hosted in several cities, such as Katowice, Cologne, and Dallas, and are known for their massive live audiences, stadium-sized hype, and elite-level gameplay.

IEM gained popularity in the late 2000s and early 2010s as esports began to go mainstream. It's a staple in the competitive gaming scene, especially among fans of real-time strategy and first-person shooters. You will likely see or hear players, streamers, and fans worldwide use "IEM" as shorthand for high-stakes, prestige-level tournaments.

Example

You watching IEM Katowice this weekend?
Of course. If Serral makes it to the finals again, I’m losing my mind
The crowd energy at IEM is always insane. It’s like the Super Bowl of StarCraft

Celebration at IEM

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Updated July 8, 2025

IEM definition by Slang.net - The Slang Dictionary

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