It’s been a year now that I’ve worked in esports. I think when I was 14, Counter-Strike very much dominated a lot of my spare time. LAN Cafe’s were set up because of Counter-Strike. School’s missed students because of Counter-Strike. What you gave up in exchange for the happiness of winning was time and resources. It always cost something.
Watching pro gamers climb their way to the top of a game was always inspiring to me but so distant. I’d never really consider actually playing games full-time.. besides, it’s not like school was ridiculously mundane and draining of one’s energy. Oh wait.. it was.
Now that I live admiring the young people that give their lives for gaming, it amazes me how those interested in promoting their brands believe that in exchange for some free ‘swag’ they should be entitled to receive exposure and publicity.
For a Contra-sponsorship to work the exchange must be of a perceived equal value to both parties.
My personal opinion to brands looking to get involved in this space? Don’t seek to take advantage of a space dominated by young, often misguided yet incredibly passionate people unless you’re willing to put your money where your mouth is.
It might be free to play but if you want a say you’ve gotta pay. Cheesy line ftw.