eSports Media

Abstract

eSports media, in contrast to legacy media (print, linear broadcasting), are almost exclusively creators and disseminators of digital content. They can take the form of live competitions on streaming platforms such as Twitch, videos of gameplay and interviews on YouTube, or coverage of the latest League of Legends Spring Championship. The gaming industry is bullish on the potential for eSports growth out of the endemic online culture associated with gaming. However, the value of eSports media rights compared to traditional sports pales in comparison. This chapter considers the current and future landscape of eSports media, starting with an examination of Twitch's pivotal role in promoting and supporting competitive gaming on the streaming platform. It will describe the integration between game publishers and their extensive “do-it-yourself” media operations, as well as the ways independent endemic and mainstream media cover the industry and monetize content.