Nintendo hosts new Global Cup 1 tournament for Code Name: S.T.E.A.M.

It's a serious shame that Nintendo's steampunk-driven strategy game has not done well in sales, but this hasn't stopped them from offering gestures of support for fans of Code Name: S.T.E.A.M.

Regular online players will know that since the game released in North America, Nintendo has periodically initiated a series of official public tournaments. The latest of these is called Global Cup 1, and it's already underway. Nintendo has developed a habit of only announcing these tournaments via SpotPass notifications, rather than them also tweeting about it as they did in the past. So if you don't check those often, it's good practice to check the Public Tournaments area of the game's online mode to stay updated.

Global Cup 1 is the eighth tournament for players in North America, but one of the first for players in Europe and Japan who recently got the game. As has been the norm, Global Cup 1 adopts Death Match conditions and requires that you eliminate the opposing team or outlast them over 30 turns to win (only two tournaments thus far have used Medal Battle for match conditions). Note that there are no regional restrictions on any of the tournaments, which would include future events that don't have the word "Global" in their title.

The tournament runs until June 25, but be sure to check the in-game notes (under Server Time) to confirm how much time you really have.

If you're hoping to place in the Top 4, here's a tip on the current leader should you face them in battle: Watch out for their Tin Man, as well as Supply Cannon tactics with Califia. Eliminate the agent they rely on most and you'll be well on your way to victory. It won't be easy, so try not to get too steamed — unless your opponent disconnects early, then you have every right to be.