The Overwatch League (OWL) is on the brink of closure as franchise owners vote on whether to continue participating or receive a termination fee and leave the league. Financial struggles, including high buy-in prices, loss of sponsorships, fluctuating media rights deals, declining player count, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, have plagued the OWL since its inception.
Several teams have already confirmed their departure from the league, further jeopardizing its future. The Chengdu Hunters franchise disbanded in May 2023 due to a shift in their strategic objectives and the expiration of Blizzard’s contract with NetEase in China. The Toronto Defiant also chose to leave the OWL, opting for the termination fee and expressing their commitment to esports through other avenues.
Teams that have left the OWL:
| Team | Reason for Exit |
|---|---|
| Chengdu Hunters | Shift in strategic objectives and contract expiration |
| Toronto Defiant | Opted for termination fee and exploring other esports opportunities |
The OWL’s future hinges on the majority vote of franchise owners. If enough teams choose to leave, the league will cease to exist. The financial challenges, coupled with the ongoing controversies surrounding Activision Blizzard, have cast a shadow of uncertainty over the future of Overwatch esports. However, efforts are being made to address these issues and ensure the continued success of the remaining teams.
Source: DOTESPORTS
