Blizzard establishes the Overwatch League with a new system – similar to the Bundesliga. How will the League and the teams be structured in this eSport, and what can we expect? Here you get the info.
Blizzard CEO Mike Morhaime announced at the BlizzCon 2016 this weekend that they want to offer players a career opportunity with the Overwatch League. The League system is intended to give teams the opportunity to secure fixed contracts – with a minimum salary and bonus packages. The spectacle will start already in the coming year 2017. Let’s take a closer look at the structure of the League.
The “Overwatch League” System
Blizzard has been a pioneer in eSports with “StarCraft”, which paved the way for other games in eSports more than 10 years ago. With the Overwatch League, they aim to revolutionize eSports. Similar to soccer, there will be teams representing specific cities, thereby bringing the League to a regional level. Furthermore, fans are supposed to be much more involved, creating new dynamics in the scene.
- What happens in the first “Overwatch League” season?
Every week, the matches of the best teams will be streamed live. Highlights of the games are planned to be shown between the best matches, along with features that could consist of interviews with the players or in-depth analyses of the games.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2-p5V4nQU5k&feature=youtu.be
- How are the teams determined?
In the Overwatch League, the main focus is on the players’ skills, and a talent pool will be created from the top players on the leaderboards. In the preseason, teams can compete for contracts to form the top roster for the actual season.
- What are the future plans?
The grand finale will be formed by an elite tournament, alongside the World Championship. Here, the best players can compete for the ultimate top position. Additionally, Blizzard intends to continually expand the League and desires a large global event for the future that brings a regional charm.
Will the new “Overwatch League” system work?
A crucial factor will likely be whether the community actually wants such a regional system. Once the teams are formed and players are under contract, the Overwatch League will be connected to regular LAN events. Will fans be willing to travel to see their favorite team in the host city of the matches? This could present a challenge for American fans due to the long travel distances. Something special would need to be offered at the local events because they could also comfortably watch from their couch.
Blizzard is definitely taking a step in the right direction by providing more security for players. All players receive a contract with benefits and a fixed salary. Additionally, qualified teams are guaranteed a place in the League. This could reduce the problem of players suddenly disappearing and provides the opportunity to follow certain players over a longer period. These regulations may even have the effect that eSports is seen more as a professional vocation.
Leya says: Personally, I think that a system that offers players more security and involves the community more can be very healthy for the eSports scene and I am curious to see if it will work in practice as Blizzard wishes in theory. I will definitely continue to follow it!
Have you actually noticed that Sombra, after a fan petition, can have her charismatic Boop in the game? I think it is really super cute.
