Services dedicated to eSports streaming, like Twitch, have been around for some time, but their appeal has been limited to relatively niche audiences. But with eSports increasing in popularity worldwide -- and thus becoming more lucrative -- major media sites like Twitter are taking notice. The mainstream social media outlet is set to stream a 'Counter-Strike: Global Offensive' match.
Twitter has recently gotten into old-fashioned, live human sports streaming, offering Wimbledon 2016 coverage and inking a deal with the NFL to stream Thursday Night Football for the 2016-2017 season, but this is its first foray into eSports streaming. Considering that certain eSports events have reportedly garnered more viewership online than the TV viewership for the Superbowl, a venture into eSports streaming seems crucial to cement the viewer base for Twitter's streaming service.
Social eSports Streaming Services
Twitter is Set to Stream a Professional Counter-Strike Match
Trend Themes
1. Rise of Esports Streaming - The increasing popularity of eSports worldwide is leading to the rise of dedicated streaming services like Twitch and Twitter, creating opportunities for disruptive innovation.
2. Mainstream Adoption of Esports - Major media sites like Twitter are recognizing the lucrative potential of eSports and are venturing into streaming eSports events, presenting opportunities for disruptive innovations in content delivery and audience engagement.
3. Integration of Traditional and Esports Streaming - Twitter's expansion into both traditional live sports streaming and eSports streaming demonstrates a trend towards integrating different types of sports entertainment, presenting opportunities for disruptive innovations in cross-platform streaming experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Esports Streaming Services - As eSports gain popularity, dedicated streaming services like Twitch and Twitter's streaming service will continue to develop and disrupt the traditional sports broadcasting industry.
2. Social Media - Major social media platforms like Twitter are capitalizing on the growing eSports market by entering into streaming, presenting opportunities for disruptive innovations in social media content and engagement.
3. Traditional Sports Broadcasting - The increasing popularity of eSports streaming services poses a challenge and opportunity for the traditional sports broadcasting industry, requiring disruptive innovations to retain and engage viewers.