ESL Gaming Sold for 1 Billion to Savvy Gaming Group
esl gaming just got sold for 1 billion dollars to savvy gaming group. the esports org that basically invented competitive gaming as we know it has new owners with deep pockets.
savvy gaming is backed by saudi arabia which makes this purchase complicated for some people. the money is there but the source raises questions about sportswashing and human rights.
the verge covered the acquisition and the mixed reactions from the esports community.
esl has been around forever in esports terms. they run major tournaments for counter-strike dota and other titles. their events defined competitive gaming for a generation.
esports consolidation was inevitable as the industry matured. billion dollar deals signal mainstream acceptance even if the money sources are controversial.
the deal also included faceit another major esports platform. savvy is clearly trying to build a dominant position in competitive gaming.
players and teams will have to decide how they feel about competing in saudi-backed events. some will have issues. others will take the money. thats how these things go.
the esports community has always been scrappy and independent. that era might be ending as big money reshapes the landscape.
acquisition announced january 2022
