The International Olympic Committee (IOC) is considering the development of the Olympic Esports Games, as announced by IOC President Thomas Bach during the 141st IOC Session in Mumbai. With over 500 million global esports fans, predominantly under the age of 34, the IOC aims to unite nations through a new form of competition.
This initiative is not the first attempt by the Olympics to enter the esports market. Earlier this year, the IOC introduced the Olympic Esports Series, featuring various games and participants from around the world. However, the event faced criticism for excluding popular titles like League of Legends, CS:GO, VALORANT, and Overwatch. Instead, it included unconventional choices such as Just Dance, Virtual Regatta, virtual taekwondo, Tennis Clash, and Tic Tac Bow.
While these game selections puzzled traditional esports enthusiasts, the IOC had specific reasons for their choices. The event aimed to promote the development of non-violent “virtual and simulated sports games.” Despite the lackluster lineup, the Olympic Esports Series generated over 6 million live action views across all channels, with 75 percent of viewers aged 13 to 34.
President Bach acknowledges the need for the Olympic movement to adapt to the digital world and engage with the younger generation. He emphasizes that sport must compete for the time and attention of young people, making it imperative to reach out to them in their digital realm.
In conclusion, the IOC is exploring the creation of the Olympic Esports Games to tap into the massive global esports community. While previous attempts faced criticism for their game selections, the IOC recognizes the importance of embracing the thoughts and ideas of the younger generation in order to stay relevant in today’s digital world.
Source: DOTESPORTS
