Sony makes a bold move into the world of esports with a major acquisition.
Sony isn't exactly among the first name that comes to people's minds when it comes to conversations around esports. The Japanese tech giant has found most of its gaming success with its PlayStation brand of gaming consoles. Suffice to say that competitive gaming isn't exactly a household feature on these consoles, which most users buy for exclusive titles. However, it looks like that might change soon. Sony has come out with a massive statement of intent by acquiring Repeat.gg, one of the world's largest esports platforms.
Repeat.gg put out a statement on their website announcing the acquisition and what it means for their future. In essence, they claim it won't change much and Repeat.gg will retain its functionality and core purpose. This does mean that Sony Playstation intend to check out esports and competitive gaming for their flagship gaming brand.
What is Repeat.gg?
Repeat.gg is an esports platform where users can compete for cash prizes across online games. The platform also organizes competitive esports tournaments where users can compete against other players even without being online at the same time. It tracks player statistics and rewards players that perform well with attractive prizes and opportunities. Ever since it was founded, the platform has hosted more than 100,000 tournaments for 2.3 million players.
What does Repeat.gg mean for Sony Playstation as a brand?
It's safe to say that Sony Playstation hasn't had a strong presence in the esports industry, despite being among the largest brands in the gaming industry. This acquisition will mean players are encouraged to participate in competitive gaming on their Playstation consoles more often. With the incentive of rewards and recognition provided by a platform like Repeat.gg, Playstation gamers will explore competitive gaming. In effect, this move was a necessary statement of intent for Sony Playstation to announce their interest in the esports space.
Is Repeat.gg going to be exclusive to Playstation?
According to Repeat.gg's press release, they're going to remain available across all gaming platforms. They insist that their platform will be available across devices and consoles, with a strong focus on community.
"Repeat is a gaming community first and foremost and will continue with that focus in mind."
Are Sony Playstation serious about their commitment to esports?
Until 2021, Sony's presence in the esports industry was quite nascent. However, they've started making some serious moves to change that. In March 2021, they were appointed as the co-owners of the Evo Championship Series, the world's largest Fighting Game tournament. The company's acquisition of Repeat.gg further emphasizes its commitment to esports as the world takes notice of such a move.
In an interview with gamesindustry.biz, Steven Roberts, Vice President of Global Competitive Gaming at Sony Playstation affirmed the company's intention to make esports accessible to all gamers. "At PlayStation, our vision for esports has always been about breaking down barriers for gamers to compete at all levels," he said.
"Together with the talented Repeat.gg team, we're excited to explore more ways for players to engage in competitive gaming and expand the breadth of our esports offerings. This is just the start of our journey and we look forward to sharing more updates with our community in the future."
It's quite clear that the Sony Playstation brand is starting to ramp up its investment in the esports industry. There's plenty of scope for growth and the esports industry is getting bigger by the day. A brand as large as Sony Playstation will certainly make waves in this space if they are serious about their commitment.