For those new to the subject, esports refers to multiplayer video game competitions where participants play individually or as teams. Over the past several years, eSports has seen a dramatic rise, making it one of the world’s fastest-growing sports. Online battle and first-shooter games are some of the most watched games. The industry is huge in Asia, Europe and North America. New Zealand is among the countries catching up to the eSports trend.
Although the market is still in its infancy, Kiwis are quickly adopting video game tournaments as sports. Just like Australia, New Zealand struggles with a small player base. However, unlike their neighbours, Kiwis enjoy faster internet speeds, which contributes to the sector’s growing popularity.
Also, increased availability of computers and other internet-enabled devices is also a major driver because it fueled the live streaming of video game competitions. More than half of the country’s population are gaming enthusiasts, with some million-odd individuals playing video games. However, the number of people in e-sports is less than 2,000. Although this membership is small compared to powerhouses like China, it’s an impressive improvement.
Electronic sports have become a big entertainment element in New Zealand, and expectations are that the scene will keep expanding. This article explores some of the trends contributing to the impressive market performance.
Convergence with Other Sectors
Perhaps the biggest reason eSports is on such an unstoppable trajectory is its convergence with other industries. Online gambling is one of the most significant factors driving e-sports growth. A detailed guide with recommended real money casino sites in New Zealand written by Robert Longthorpe of NZCasinoClub.com, shows you that esports are some of the gambling alternatives available on many casino sites.
A majority of casinos have multiple gambling verticals, and eSports are some of the most common offerings. Betting on e-sports events has become as widespread as conventional sports betting. Gambling websites offer a variety of markets, enabling gamblers to stake money on different competitions.
eSports also integrates with traditional sports on several fronts, allowing it to capitalise on already existing fan bases. Football and basketball are two of the main points of convergence. Currently, more than 20 NBA franchises have corresponding e-sports teams. Predictions indicate that e-sports teams could be worth as much as NBA franchises.
Players can also find the biggest football clubs and stars available in video games. FIFA is one of the most played titles in the world. The convergence of these two areas has helped tap into a young audience that is growing increasingly disinterested in conventional sports.
A Thriving Competitive Scene
New Zealand is experiencing a great shift in how seriously players take eSports as a competitive market. For the longest time, Kiwis only had a casual e-sports scene, where hobbyists indulged in their favourite games. Over the past few years, more and more players in New Zealand are gaming competitively. Players participate in domestic and international competitions, which boosts the industry’s exposure.
Figures show that 350 New Zealand eSports players have earned approximately USD 2.2 million across 1,000 tournaments. So far, Fortnite has awarded the highest amount, estimated to be more than USD 600,000. Cameron “Kamii” Ingram is the highest-earning Kiwi in eSports, with over USD 129,000 in prize money.
New Zealand doesn’t just front participants in these competitions, though. It has hosted several major tournaments. The eSports World Championship took place in the country in 2019. The event saw some of the biggest names in eSports meet in New Zealand, a move that saw the country market itself as a major destination. One event that continues to put the nation front and centre of the Oceanic e-sports sector is the Let’s Play Live Pro League.
As the country’s biggest eSports league, it features tournaments for various games, including Overwatch, League of Legends and Rainbow Six Siege. The event draws thousands of viewers both offline and online. World of Warcraft, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Fortnite are some leading titles played competitively at local, regional and global tournaments.
Growing Legitimacy
eSports wouldn’t be where it is if it didn’t receive approval from important stakeholders. The government is recognising the potential this market holds and choosing to invest in it. By funding events and offering other types of support, the government has painted electronic sports as a valid entertainment industry, thus attracting the attention of other sectors.
Additionally, the government is developing infrastructure that will contribute to the expansion of e-sports. Government support made it easy for private companies to invest in the industry. Corporations like Coca-Cola partner with eSports teams for sponsorships, providing monetary backing in tournaments. This support is bringing e-sports to a wider audience and enabling gamers to explore their full potential.
The Future of eSports in New Zealand
Looking at the current esports trends in New Zealand, it’s safe to conclude that the industry has a promising future. The proliferation of the internet and smart devices; mounting support from the government and the private sector; and the rising popularity of video games as entertainment are factors that will see the eSports scene enjoy unhindered growth.
New Zealand might still have a long way to go to become a chief player in the industry, but it is on the right track. According to video game manufacturers, digital games are the country’s single fastest-growing export. As the New Zealand game market keeps expanding, eSports will grow right along with it.
eSports is enjoying some of its best performances as an industry globally. New Zealand might not be among the leading e-sports hubs, but it is giving the sector room to flourish. Competitive gaming is slowly gaining prominence, with various tournaments available for players.
More Kiwis are joining the world stage as professional gamers. Online gambling is also playing a significant role in boosting the popularity of e-sports, not only as an entertainment option but as a betting market, as well.
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