The global gaming and esports industry has seen notable changes in the past 48 hours, continuing a summer marked by market expansion, strategic partnerships, and shifting industry dynamics. Market leaders are responding with innovation and renewed focus on high-engagement regions and tech-driven experiences.
In Asia, Singapore’s prominence as an esports destination was reinforced with the announcement of a multi-year partnership between BLAST and the Singapore Tourism Board. This deal will bring four major arena esports events to the city-state beginning with the November 2025 BLAST Dota Slam Singapore. This follows last year’s sold-out BLAST Premier World Final and demonstrates industry focus on live, in-person spectacles and Southeast Asia’s increasingly engaged audience. Singapore’s approach contrasts with past years, when major events were largely centered in Europe and North America, reflecting a clear consumer shift toward live event participation in new markets. The 2024 BLAST Premier World Final alone reported a $1 million prize pool and full venue attendance, positioning live esports once again alongside top global sporting events in terms of viewership and physical turnout[2][7].
Partnership activity remains a dominant trend. ExpressVPN became a sponsor for the League of Legends EMEA Championship, reinforcing both security’s and branding’s value in competitive ecosystems[1]. Razer renewed its partnership with the Sentinels esports team, rolling out new co-branded hardware designed to meet the evolving needs of elite players and fans, while game studio ELA Games expanded through its new alliance with Betsson to penetrate the Danish market[4][5]. Meanwhile, major content and distribution deals continue, such as Gaming Corps’ newly announced partnership with BETHUB to expand casino gaming content in Bulgaria[6].
Some organizations are adjusting strategy in response to changing market fundamentals. 100 Thieves announced it will exit the League of Legends Championship of the Americas after the 2025 season, reflecting continued challenges for North American teams in maintaining long-term esports investments[1].
Platform engagement remains robust, with esports betting markets growing and major competitions drawing online audiences that rival traditional sports. For example, the League of Legends Championship drew over 100 million global viewers, near Super Bowl levels[3].
Overall, the last 48 hours reveal an industry focused on global expansion, audience engagement, and strategic alliances, while western teams and publishers rethink their competitive commitments and product mix in response to evolving financial realities.
For great deals today, check out https://amzn.to/44ci4hQ
This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI
