Danish esports company BLAST has forged an unexpected partnership with Epic Games, becoming the official operator of “Rocket League” esports as of January 4. This move surprised many in the competitive gaming industry, as Epic Games opted for BLAST over the Saudi-Arabian-owned ESL/FACEIT Group, challenging earlier expectations of a potential full industry takeover by Saudi Arabia’s $38 billion esports investment.
While BLAST initially gained recognition as a “Counter-Strike” tournament operator, their collaboration with Epic Games extends to managing “Fortnite” events since 2021, overseeing the entirety of Epic’s Fortnite Champion Series (FNCS) in 2022 and 2023. In the newly established “Rocket League” deal, BLAST assumes responsibility for event production, sales, operations, and marketing for the Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS). The agreement also grants BLAST management of commercial rights for both the game and its esports competitions.
BLAST’s chief business officer, Leo Matlock, highlighted their success in developing commercial partnerships in traditionally non-brand-friendly games and expressed enthusiasm for a collaboration where potential barriers may be fewer.
Although specific financial details and the partnership’s duration remain undisclosed, both BLAST and Epic Games confirmed it as a multi-year deal. Matlock emphasized a focus on maximizing RLCS inventory, including in-game elements like banners and flags, as well as out-of-game inventory such as event naming rights. The multi-year commitment allows for adaptability and improvement, aiming to enhance the proposition for brands involved in the esports landscape.
What can Fortnite and Rocket League fans expect from BLAST's partnership with Epic to manage their competitive circuits?
BLAST emerged in Counter-Strike with its "Pro Series" circuit, a competition model that lasted from 2017 to 2019 with competitions in several cities around… pic.twitter.com/JRrkVGWDQR
— Rafael Ferreira (@Rafinhafps) January 4, 2024
BLAST’s Unexpected Rocket League Partnership Signals a Shift in Esports Landscape
In a surprising turn of events just before the 2023 holidays, BLAST secured the coveted “Rocket League” deal, marking a significant pivot for Epic Games. Previously partnered with Germany-based ESL/FACEIT Group (EFG) to manage “Rocket League” events, Epic Games had been engaged in months-long discussions with EFG to determine their collaboration in 2024. Participants from EFG expressed confidence that their bid would prevail, given their successful work within the “Rocket League” community and the RLCS throughout the year.
EFG co-CEO Craig Levine conveyed pride in their accomplishments and disappointment at not having the opportunity to build on them in the future, acknowledging that Epic’s decision was the determining factor. Epic Games, while not disclosing specific details behind choosing BLAST over EFG, emphasized that BLAST’s long-standing relationship with the company played a crucial role in securing the deal. BLAST’s track record in managing successful esports events, coupled with their prior collaboration with Epic in overseeing “Fortnite” events, likely contributed to the decision.
The unexpected shift underscores the dynamic nature of esports partnerships, where established relationships, past successes, and potential for future growth all play pivotal roles in determining industry collaborations.
Navigating Saudi Ties: Epic Games’ Strategic Move
The intricate relationship between the ESL/FACEIT Group (EFG) and the Saudi Arabian government became a potential point of concern in the esports industry. The Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia’s acquisition of EFG in January 2022, coupled with substantial investments, positioned EFG as a major player in the league and tournament operations sector. However, Saudi Arabia’s controversial human rights record sparked resistance within the gaming and esports community, leading to protests reminiscent of Riot Games’ 2020 partnership with Neom.
Craig Levine, EFG co-CEO, acknowledged the initial sentiment against Saudi involvement, especially when announcing the partnership with PIF subsidiary Savvy Games Group two years ago. He noted a shift in industry perspectives over time, attributing it to a better understanding of the country, its culture, ambitions, and ongoing transformation.
Epic Games, known for taking moral stands, particularly against major entities like Apple, operates as a privately owned company without the pressures of answering to investors. The potential for fan backlash, especially regarding Saudi ties, could have factored into Epic’s decision to partner with BLAST for the Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS). BLAST’s role as a challenger to the dominant EFG in the industry landscape positions it as an alternative path forward for publishers and esports teams.
Jamie Wootton, Head of Esports at AFK, suggested that the Saudi element might have played a role in Epic’s decision. However, he acknowledged the complexity of the situation, considering that Saudis were granted the license to run Rocket League tournaments at Gamers8 in recent years.
In navigating the esports terrain, Epic Games’ strategic move with BLAST underscores the multifaceted considerations, including potential fan blowback and the evolving dynamics of the industry’s key players.
Conclusion
In a surprising move, Danish esports company BLAST has become the official operator of “Rocket League” esports, partnering with Epic Games, a decision that defied expectations of a takeover by the Saudi-Arabian-owned ESL/FACEIT Group. BLAST, known for “Counter-Strike” tournaments and managing Epic’s “Fortnite” events, now oversees the Rocket League Championship Series (RLCS) in a multi-year deal, managing event production, sales, operations, and marketing. The unexpected shift highlights the dynamic nature of esports partnerships, emphasizing established relationships and past successes.
The decision also reflects Epic Games’ strategic considerations, potentially avoiding fan backlash due to EFG’s Saudi ties. BLAST’s role as a challenger to the dominant EFG positions it as an alternative in the industry landscape. As esports navigates geopolitical concerns, Epic’s move signifies a nuanced approach, acknowledging the evolving dynamics and complexities within the gaming community.
