ESL and Wonderworld VR are looking to transform the league’s viewing experience, announcing a long-term partnership to stream events in virtual reality. While the two companies will be livestreaming Intel’s Extreme Masters Sydney event this weekend in 360 VR, the partnership will dive deeper, reportedly bringing VR event streaming to all major ESL events and launching an “in-arena VR experience” from the ground floor of each event, per TEO. “Wonderworld VR has demonstrated a strong ability in delivering a flawless live camera stream, as well as creating a solid foundation for driving the whole production,” said ESL product manager Stuart Ewen. “We look forward to continue offering premium experiences for our audiences, including innovative and unique VR broadcast features, throughout the duration of 2017 and beyond.”
Simon Romanus, Founder and CEO of Wonderworld VR commented, “We are thrilled to be able to build on the ESL relationship. There are millions of esports fans out there that deserve the opportunity to be part of the action during the big arena events, even if they can’t physically be there. In live VR, we give audiences an extraordinary experience that will bring them closer to the players, in addition to exclusive backstage and behind-the- scenes access that isn’t accessible to live visitors. We also want to build a relationship with brands and give them an opportunity to be a part of VR and esports. With our creative production, we will bring the whole essence of competitive gaming into the future.”