GamesBeat Next is an event that aims to connect the next generation of video game leaders. It will take place on October 28th and 29th in San Francisco. For a limited time, there’s a buy one, get one free pass offer available until August 16th. This event provides an opportunity for industry professionals and enthusiasts to come together and share insights, ideas, and innovations in the world of gaming.
One of the notable announcements made during the event was the introduction of PlayVS’ Stadium product. PlayVS has been a pioneer in bringing esports to high schools and middle schools in North America. With the new Stadium platform, they aim to cater to a wider audience, including community groups, organizations, and informal teams. The platform offers flexible competition settings, allowing for a diverse range of event types, from open community tournaments to exclusive organizational events.
PlayVS is committed to offering the highest tier of esports competition and increasing accessibility for youth players. In November 2023, the platform became completely free to compete for students, and in March 2024, they expanded their scholastic program to middle schools. This commitment to accessibility and inclusivity has been a driving force behind the development of the Stadium platform. It allows players to participate in esports competitions even if their school doesn’t have an esports program or if they want to compete with friends from neighboring schools.
The power of gaming in creating a sense of community and enhancing leadership skills has been evident in the impact of esports on students. A survey revealed that 57% of students reported feeling like they are part of a community through esports. Coaches have also noted enhanced leadership skills in their students, with 83% recognizing this positive change. The introduction of the Stadium platform aims to expand the positive influence of esports beyond the school environment, allowing more individuals to experience the benefits of competitive gaming.
The genesis of the Stadium product came from the realization that there is a desire for more opportunities to play esports. While the traditional scholastic platform of PlayVS requires institutional affiliation and a designated coach, Stadium provides the freedom for individuals and teams to organize and participate in competitions on their own. This opens up a new realm of short-form experiences for gaming enthusiasts who may not have the time or means to commit to a traditional esports team. It also provides a pathway for those who may be interested in gaming but are involved in other extracurricular activities.
The first Stadium tournament will focus on the popular game Rocket League. This tournament will be open to players aged 13-18 in the U.S. and Canada, with no coach or school requirements necessary to participate. The competition will run for several weeks, culminating in the finals in October. The flexibility of the platform allows for both short and long tournaments, catering to different preferences and schedules.
PlayVS has seen significant growth since its founding in 2018. It has enabled over 250,000 matches in states across the U.S. and Canada, crowning over 900 state champions. The average esports program is now comparable to traditional sports teams, providing students with the community and camaraderie that team sports offer. The expansion of the PlayVS platform through Stadium will further strengthen the gaming community and provide more opportunities for individuals to participate and compete.
The vision of PlayVS goes beyond just providing a platform for esports competitions. It aims to use games as a tool for social change and inclusivity. The CEO of PlayVS, Jon Chapman, believes that esports can help students learn leadership skills, communication, and teamwork. For many students, PlayVS becomes their first extracurricular activity, opening doors to new experiences and opportunities. Chapman hopes to grow PlayVS’ reach to 25,000 schools in the next five years, further solidifying its position as a positive force for good in schools.
The positive impact of esports events on mental health and leadership development has been evident in surveys conducted by PlayVS. It has been shown to create progress and improvement in these areas, making it a valuable extracurricular activity in many schools. The inclusivity of esports competitions allows for a more diverse participation, breaking down traditional gender and physical ability barriers. PlayVS aims to create an environment where all students can compete on an equal footing, fostering a sense of belonging and achievement.
In conclusion, the introduction of PlayVS’ Stadium platform brings new opportunities for gamers of all backgrounds to participate in esports competitions. The flexibility and inclusivity of the platform aim to create a more diverse and vibrant gaming community. With the increasing accessibility of esports and the positive impact it has on students, the future of competitive gaming looks bright. As gaming continues to grow and evolve, platforms like Stadium will play a crucial role in connecting and empowering the next generation of video game leaders.
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