Changes are coming to VALORANT esports. Specifically, the notion that VALORANT franchising is likely on the horizon has the community both concerned and excited with valid reasons. Accordingly, in this episode of State of the Community we’ll be discussing this controversial idea below!
VALORANT Esports – An Incredible 2 Years
Before we progress, we need to discuss where competitive VALORANT has arrived. Following two years, the competition is about to fire up with VCT Stage 2 Masters Copenhagen next week.
So much so, considering the global situation, this will actually be the first ever international event for VALORANT esports featuring a live crowd. Overall, the title looks to be in a great spot, as evident in the peak viewership statistics below:
- VALORANT Champions 2021 – Peak Viewers 1,089,068
- VCT 2021 Stage 2 Masters Reykjavik – Peak Viewers 1,085,850
- VCT 2022 Stage 1 Masters Reykjavik – Peak Viewers 1,065,887
Considering these numbers are comparable to Tier 1 esports, VALORANT continue to climb as inspired by Riot Games. Beyond simply numbers, there are also a few more things VALORANT is doing great:
- Global distribution and spread of opportunities – international events such as Copenhagen feature teams from an array of regions such as EMEA, NA, Korea, LATAM, Brazil, Japan, SEA and APAC. Furthermore, broadcasting is done in multiple languages too.
- A focus on female representation and esports – the Game Changers events are the highest quality of competition for female athletes in esports.
- Multiple small regional leagues permit for a viable Path to Pro to allow for new talent to enter the scene.
Bearing this in mind, is there even the need for change – let’s discuss this further below!
VALORANT Franchising – Reason for Concern
Specifically, the announcement which drew all the attention was what Riot Games’ mentioned in their 2023 Format Reveal press release. With regards to ‘New Leagues for the World’s Top Teams’ the following was stated:
Want more to watch? You got it. In 2023, we’re introducing entirely new premier-level leagues that will see the best players in the world compete in international competition for spots at our global events.
By creating regular competition that spans multiple regions, we expect to see some new rivalries that span global borders. Teams at this level will be long-term partners of the VALORANT esports ecosystem, and fully invested in creating the best fan experience possible.
Credits: Riot Games
While this is painted wonderfully, why is the community concerned? Well, there are multiple reasons, all to do with exclusivity related with franchising as outlined in the following concise points:
- Restricting team entry – moving away from an Open format, allowing any random team to try compete with the region’s best and surprise the community takes away this very exciting and organic element to competition
- Difficulties with roster changes – with official franchised teams, roster changes will be more difficult to execute considering the buyout costs and the regulated contracts
- Reducing third party event organizers – oftentimes, due to the restrictions of a franchise, third-party organizers are not involved and separate events from the franchised league become rare
Indeed, these are some of the implications of a multi-million dollar league structure.
VALORANT Franchising – Reason for Excitement
However, there are also the benefits to consider for the esport. The following are a few advantages to consider for the esport and the community:
- Player and team safety – for an agreed fee, your favourite teams will always be competing. Also, avoiding notions such as relegation
- Player security – across a franchised leagues, professional players benefit from standardized contracts and also cuts from winnings to allow for a stable income and career
- A structured approach – while third party events may decrease, the presence of a dedicated event series for lower tier competition provides an official guide for new talent to grow
- Growth is possible depending on marketing and sponsorship
Indeed, what’s more, is that the most successful franchises in esports have been thanks to Riot Games. Indeed, this is exemplified by the League of Legends franchises. Bearing this in mind, it’s likely that any franchising for VALORANT will be thought out and well organized.
VALORANT Franchising – Is It Too Soon?
Indeed, after all these points, do we think it’s too soon?
No, definitely not. Remember, the Overwatch League for example, was started only a year after Overwatch was released!
Accordingly, with 2 years of experimenting and avoiding the former global situation, VALORANT esports is in the best spot for expansion. Also, with Riot Games at the helm.
We’ll be sure to stay up to date with any updates!
For more esports news, visit: https://www.esportsguide.com/news
