Esports, or competitive video gaming, has been growing rapidly in popularity and recognition in recent years. With millions of fans, players and spectators around the world, esports has become a global phenomenon that transcends cultural and geographical boundaries. But can esports also become a part of the Olympics? After all, it’s the world’s most prestigious and inclusive sporting event. In this article, we’ll explore:
- Why esports should be in the Olympics at all;
- The recent backlash against the implementation of esports in the Olympics; and
- Why games like Rocket League, Valorant, and CS:GO should be included in the Olympic Esports Series.
Why Esports Should Be in the Olympics
Esports has many characteristics that make it compatible with the Olympic values and principles. First of all, esports is a form of sport. It requires physical and mental skills, such as coordination, reaction, strategy, teamwork, and communication. Esports athletes train hard to hone their abilities and compete at the highest level, just like traditional athletes. Esports also promotes fair play, respect and solidarity among players and fans. Additionally, esports is big on diversity and inclusion across genders, ages, backgrounds, and abilities. Esports can also inspire young people to pursue their dreams and passions, as well as to adopt healthy lifestyles and habits.
Secondly, esports is a form of sport that is accessible and adaptable to different contexts and environments. Esports can be played online or offline, with minimal equipment and infrastructure requirements. It can also be adapted to different genres and formats, such as virtual sports (simulating real sports) or fantasy sports (creating fictional worlds and characters). Esports can also be integrated with emerging technologies such as VR, AI, and AI to create innovative and immersive experiences for players and spectators.
Thirdly, esports is a form of sport that is popular and engaging for a large and diverse audience. Esports has a global fan base of over 500 million people, who watch live streams, tournaments and events online or offline. Esports also attracts sponsors, media partners and celebrities who support the growth and development of the industry. Additionally, it can generate social and economic benefits for host cities and countries, such as tourism, employment, education and entertainment.
The Recent Backlash Against the Implementation of Esports in the Olympics
Despite the potential benefits of esports for the Olympic movement, there has been some resistance and criticism regarding esports’ inclusion.
Some claim esports isn’t compatible with the Olympic values. They say esports doesn’t uphold the values of excellence, friendship and respect that are central to the Olympic spirit. These critics argue that esports is too violent, aggressive, or addictive for the Olympic ethos. Others assert esports is not representative of Olympic diversity. They argue that esports is dominated by certain regions (such as Asia or Europe), genres (such as shooting or racing), or demographics (such as young males).
Moreover, some critics have expressed dissatisfaction with the selection of games for the Olympic Esports Series 2023, a global virtual and simulated sports competition created by the IOC. The initially confirmed games across nine sports are: Archery, Baseball, Chess, Cycling, Dance, Motor sport, Sailing, Tennis, and Taekwondo.
Somecriticshaveargued that these games are too simple or casual. One user claimed the whole initiative is “lame and an embarrassing disconnect with what esports actually is”. These games have little to no structured competitive scene, fan base, or relevance for the esports industry. Critics also claim these games don’t represent the most popular or influential esports titles such as CS:GO, LoL, Valorant or Rocket League.
Why We Need Real Esports at the Olympic Esports Series
In response to these criticisms, we believe that games like Rocket League, Valorant, and CS:GO should be included in Olympic esports. These games can appeal to both traditional sports fans and esports fans who enjoy watching or playing competitive games with skill-based mechanics.
Rocket League, Valorant, and CS:GO are examples of team-based games that require cooperation, coordination, and communication among players. They’re also thrilling to watch. Two teams going head to head is always a joy to watch at the highest level.
These games are examples of popular titles that have large and loyal fanbases around the world. They would attract high viewership, participation, and engagement for the Olympics. The titles also have well-established and professional competitive scenes, with tournaments, leagues, and events that showcase the best players and teams in the world.
How many of the existing Olympic Esports Series games have thriving competitive scenes?
Conclusion
Esports is a form of sport that has many advantages and opportunities for the Olympics. Esports can enhance the Olympic values and principles, as well as attract and engage a large and diverse audience. However, esports also faces some challenges and criticisms. Some stakeholders question its legitimacy, compatibility, and representativeness for the Olympics.
Valor believes that games like Rocket League, Valorant, and CS:GO can address these concerns and demonstrate the potential and appeal of esports for the Olympics. We hope that the IOC will consider including these games in the future editions of the Olympic Esports Series.