ESPN is continuing its esports push through broadcasting the ‘Road to the Madden Bowl.’ The ‘Road to the Madden Bowl,’ will be released in different episodes that feature extensive player access and interviews. The show will be aired until the Madden NFL 20 Bowl takes place on May 16th, which will be streamed through YouTube, Twitch, and also aired on ESPN.
Overall airing the show demonstrates how ESPN is adapting to sports not being played. Additionally, if esports broadcasts are successful the network may move to air this kind of content more frequently. Previously other networks have also begun to air more esports content during the outbreak of COVID-19, and esports is becoming a more commonly broadcasted event.
Image Credit: EA
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Virtual Sports Broadcasting
- The success of esports broadcasting during the pandemic may lead to more networks airing virtual sports content in the future.
- Remote Player Access and Interviews
- Providing extensive player access and interviews remotely can offer a new perspective for audiences and create innovative content opportunities.
- Sports Events in Gaming
- The popularity and increasing exposure of virtual sports events can lead to the creation of new gaming industry opportunities.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Broadcasting
- The rise of virtual sports broadcasting creates opportunities for traditional sports broadcasters and streaming services to expand their offerings.
- Esports
- Esports industry players can take advantage of the increased exposure and interest in virtual sports events to expand their brand and reach new audiences.
- Gaming
- The trend towards sports events in gaming can create growth opportunities for gaming companies to develop and expand their virtual sports or sports simulation offerings.
