The Electronic sports League (ESL) has announced that the venue for the 22nd season of the Esports Premier League (EPL) will be moved to Stockholm, following a recent warning from the gaming company, Valve Corporation. This move signifies the impact of such warnings on Esports organizations and their decision-making processes.
The impending EPL S22 event was initially slated to take place in Malta but was abruptly moved following the warning from Valve.Valve reportedly sent an email to several tournament organizers, including ESL, warning them about the potential conflicts regarding event hosting and the current global situation.
Valve’s warning
Valve Corporation, the creator of Counter-strike: Global offensive (CS:GO), had reportedly sent an email to various tournament organizers, including ESL, cautioning them about the dangers of hosting live esports events during the ongoing Pandemic. Valve reiterated its stance on prioritizing the safety and well-being of players and staff, wich led the ESL to reconsider its initial decision.
ESL’s Decision to Move
ESL’s decision to relocate the EPL S22 event to Stockholm was not taken lightly. In a statement, ESL said, “We have decided to relocate the EPL S22 to Stockholm as a direct response to the warning issued by valve. We believe Stockholm will provide a safer surroundings for players and staff.”
The Esports organization ensures that ongoing health and safety considerations, paired with Valve’s warning, influenced their choice to move the event to Stockholm. This indicates that player safety is a top priority at ESL events, and any potential threat that could endanger them is enough to alter set plans.
The Impact on Esports Events
The relocation of EPL S22 signifies the adaptation of Esports organizations to the shifting landscape caused by global events. It also highlights the influence gaming companies like Valve have in shaping the organization and execution of esports tournaments.
This scenario clearly illustrates the power Valve possesses in guiding esports choices,underscoring the symbiotic relationship between game developers and organizations in firmly establishing regulations for the safety and well-being of everyone involved.
in Conclusion
While the sudden move from Malta to Stockholm for EPL S22 was unexpected, the decision fortifies that player safety and well-being take precedence over all other considerations. It’s a clear indicator that organizations like ESL are willing to make swift changes in response to warnings from gaming companies to ensure the best possible environment for competitors, employees, and fans alike.
