What Happened
Video game maker Activision Blizzard will be delivering live eSports coverage to a global audience via Facebook. The video game company will launch a new eSports network and programming on Facebook with the MLG Anaheim Open, a two-day Call of Duty tournament that is scheduled to kick off on June 10, 2016. That tournament is run by Major League Gaming (MLG), one of the biggest eSports leagues, which Activision acquired in January.
Why Brands Should Care
eSports is outgrowing its status as a niche industry for gamers and turning into global entertainment. According to new research by market intelligence firm Newzoo, more than one billion people will know about eSports by the end of this year. While eSports is no stranger to live streaming, it is still an interesting move that Activision chose Facebook over other gameplay streaming platforms such as Twitch and YouTube Gaming for its live eSports coverage. Facebook has been making a strong push for its live-stream features, going as far as paying media companies to use it. Activision says it picked Facebook mainly for its unmatched reach among global Internet users. As Activision tries to engage part of Facebook’s massive audience, it can also increase the audience for brands sponsoring eSports tournaments or teams.
Source: Variety
