Why Esports Leagues Should Weather the Coronavirus Pandemic

While esports companies are taking a short-term hit as live events shift to online-only competitions, industry experts say the gaming world could be well positioned to weather the coronavirus pandemic. Last week, the threat of the spreading novel coronavirus forced game developer and Call of Duty League operator Activision Blizzard to completely pause its first annual “Call of Duty” season. Activision also canceled all home arena events in its nationwide Overwatch League throughout March and April, meaning fans can’t see their home teams play in-person for two months. Broadcast rights to esports matches and events this season have already been purchased and will air mostly as planned.