The global COVID-19 pandemic has brought negativity into many aspects of daily life, not least in the world of business. But while many industries have been decimated by the coronavirus, one sector has gained greater popularity than ever. Step forward the world of eSports.
Here’s why 2020 is fast becoming the year of eSports, both due to and in spite of the COVID-19 pandemic.
An Industry That’s Already Growing
The concept of competitive gaming as a form of entertainment isn’t anything new. In fact, several TV shows during the 1980s and 1990s included sections where two people would play against each other for a prize. Meanwhile, Player$ and other shows based on video games further underlined the potential for video games to dominate. This included the idea of merging gaming with the world of celebrity.That prophecy has come true.
Online gaming changed forever when the PlayStation Network and Xbox Live platforms were launched. Online PC titles like Counter-Strike further fueled the move to the mainstream. Organized competitions across Europe, Asia, and North America soon developed into global tournaments. While still considered a niche area of the gaming industry, the 2010s would see a noticeable change.
Competitive gamers became well-known public figures thanks to social media. Players also broke the mold of ‘geek gamers’, incorporating physical fitness into training routines. Global competitions with six-figure prizes started to gain television broadcasting. When supported by opening its doors to the sports betting industries, success was assured.
The growth of the industry was highlighted as the world of gaming, and real-world sports merged. In the UK, this happened courtesy of soccer matches at Wembley Stadium, as well as high-profile boxing including gaming YouTuber KSI. On this side of the pond, big competitions gained thousands of ticket sales as well as big viewerships on social media streams and TV channels.
While the term eSports didn’t surface until the era of the internet, the history of competitive gaming is as rich as gaming itself. And, as the start of a new decade dawned, the industry was already on an extremely positive trajectory. However, the global pandemic has undoubtedly spearheaded even greater universal appeal.
The Role Of eSports During COVID-19
COVID-19 has slammed the brakes on progress in many aspects of our lives. Millions of people are forced to either lose work or work from home. Worse still, the lockdown covers a cancellation of mass gatherings, which has put an end to most forms of leisure activities. Sports are off, even if UFC’s Dana White has tried tirelessly to find a solution. Music gigs, theatre shows, and even cinema screenings have also been hit by the temporary chop.
People have more time to fill than ever, but fewer options at their disposal. Organized competitions at venues are off-limits. Still, the concept of competitive gaming over an internet connection is unaffected. Therefore, the eSports industry has been perfectly placed to step up its game, providing light relief for new and seasoned fans alike.
The eSports industry is doing a lot of things well to capitalize on the current landscape. This has turned these worrying times into one of their most productive. Some of the key features include;
Universal Appeal
It’s not that long ago that gaming was seen as something for geeks. A generational shift means that people aged 35 and below have grown up with video games in their lives. The eSports arena can provide something for players and spectators in many genres. First-person shooters, arcade classics like Street Fighter, and sports titles are all popular. Meanwhile, the mad world of Rocket League has become hugely popular too.
Furthermore, the role of cross-platform gaming has torn down a number of barriers. Competitive gamers can play titles through the cloud. Meanwhile, casual players can join their friends on Call of Duty even when they have different consoles. Will it put an end to the console wars? Probably not. But the landscape is far more forgiving than in previous generations.
Saving Other Industries
The eSports industry isn’t the only beneficiary of the competitive gaming sector right now. Twitch and other streaming platforms have seen a significant boost in traffic. Meanwhile, sports teams across multiple sports have jumped on the bandwagon. They have signed up their professional eSports players to represent them in virtual match-ups. In some cases, the real-world athletes are playing against other teams online to see which of the digital counterparts will win.
Another industry to see huge benefits is the gambling arena. While the popular casino games are still performing well, there is a void left by the absence of sports. The eSports arena has given operators a chance to stay alive. Similarly, ads and sponsorships are working wonders for companies in related marketing arenas.
Social Interaction
The lack of human interaction caused by lockdown is the hardest challenge for people at this time. Video games with headset usage offer people a way to stay in touch with friends while also enjoying their games. On a similar note, the professional eSports matches are a talking point on social media and in conversation with friends. For real-time comments and post-match analysis, eSports fills a void right now. Likewise, the unique situation has forced the industry to progress even quicker.
People need some form of social interaction more than ever. The fact of the matter is that eSports and online gaming in general transcends the idea of playing versus a machine. It is a social activity, offering the same core values as any other group hobby. At a time where other hobbies are off-limits, this is a safety net for millions.
What Happens After COVID-19?
Does the eSports industry retain all of its new audience is restored? No. But some will certainly stay loyal to their newfound hobby.
Will the industry suffer a temporary post-coronavirus hit? Probably. After all, people will be desperate to get outside and do the things they’ve missed out on.
However, the million-dollar question is whether eSports will go on from strength to strength. All suggestions are that the answer is an emphatic yes. A sector that was already well-known and on the peripheral of the public eye has taken temporary center stage. Will it hog the spotlight indefinitely? Who knows.
One thing’s for sure, though, the curtain won’t come down on the industry’s evolution any time soon.
