Esports is a fast-growing industry and has been for a few years, but latest research figures show an explosion of growth in Asia. There's also the need to learn from mistakes, which is what 100 Thieves' Cody Sun has had to do over the past year. All this and more in this week's esports news roundup.
Growth of the scene
Esports as a scene continues to grow and become more of an accepted form of sport. "Southeast Asia will have 9.5 million Esports Enthusiasts in 2016, and this number will double by 2019," according to latest Newzoo figures. That's huge for the industry. Taking into account those who occasionally watch esports, the numbers could hit 20 million this year and exceed 40 million by 2019.
Established games including League of Legends, DOTA2, and Counter-Strike: GO continue to adapt and change systems to include more support and increase reach. Newcomers like Blizzard's Overwatch are designed around franchising and local representation, inviting those who may not traditionally view esports as an enjoyable form of entertainment to support their city.
Learning from Rift mistakes
Riot Games took some time with 100 Thieves owner Matthew "Nadeshot" Haag and the organization's League of Legends ADC Cody Sun. Cody Sun had quite the track record with Immortals, losing out at Worlds and having those from within the community questioning his abilities and future in the scene.
After joining 100 Thieves and taking to the NA LCS stage once again, Cody Sun and the rest of his crew have managed to turn the tables and silence many critics. We'll have to see how the squad fares in the playoffs and at Worlds should they make it through.
Upcoming live events
- League of Legends LCS - March 30 (EU), March 31 (EU, US), April 1 (US), watch on Twitch.
Epic Games v. Apple: Everything we've learned so far
Epic Games v. Apple rages on. As a result of the trial, some truly wild stuff has been revealed about the two companies going to court as well as Microsoft, Sony, and many other major players in the tech and gaming industries.
We lay out whether the XPS 13 2-in-1 or standard XPS 13 is a better buy
Dell's lineup includes both convertible and non-convertible versions of the XPS 13, and while they're both premium options, there are some similarities and differences to note before deciding on which will be your next PC.
Teen spends over $8000 on EA's FIFA, highlights predatory game design
How FIFA Ultimate Team and other predatory game mechanics are exploiting the pandemic-induced decline of mental health to make phat wads of cash so execs can buy new yachts with beefy bonuses. It has to change.
Play Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020 on the go with these gaming laptops
You don't require a desktop PC to truly enjoy Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020. We've rounded up some fine gaming laptops, like the excellent Razer Blade 15, that will more than happily let you take to the skies without a desk.