Capitalizing on the growing demand for competitive gaming, Turner Broadcasting System, Inc. and WME | IMG announced today they will create an eSports competitive gaming league. Turner Studios, located in Atlanta, GA., will serve as the primary hub for televised gaming events.
eSports is one of the fastest growing entertainment genres among young adults around the world,” president of Turner Sports Lenny Daniels said. “We’re looking forward to creating a tremendous live event atmosphere.
Valve’s Counter-Strike: Global Offensive will be the featured game during the league’s first season. Tentatively scheduled for 2016, two tournaments will take place during the calendar year with each tournament expected to last 10 weeks.
Events will air Friday nights on TBS while digital coverage will include behind-the-scenes event coverage and profiles on the eSports teams and competitors.
“We are proud to establish a leadership position in this rapidly growing arena, which I see as a tent pole for the next chapter of TBS,” said Kevin Reilly, president of TBS and TNT, chief creative officer for Turner.
There was no doubt that the eSports arena would reach more mainstream platforms given its popularity. More details, locations, and program information will come later this year.
