Why is Gamebattles Shutting Down? Everything You Need to Know
by Indraprakash
Updated Nov 20, 2023
Gamebattles
GameBattles is a tournament hosting platform that belongs to Major League Gaming (MLG). MLG is a professional esports organization headquartered in New York City, founded in 2002 by Sundance DiGiovanni and Mike Sepso. GameBattles, under the MLG umbrella, has been a significant part of the gaming community, organizing official video game tournaments across the United States and Canada.
Its purpose is to make computer and console game tournaments not just competitive but also enjoyable for spectators. GameBattles' parent company, MLG, was acquired by video game publisher Activision Blizzard in January 2016. However, recent news indicates that GameBattles is set to shut down, raising questions about the future of this prominent platform in the esports landscape.
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Gamebattles Shutting Down
GameBattles, a well-known online tournament platform deeply ingrained in the Call of Duty community, recently announced its closure scheduled for January 15th, 2024. Acquired by Major League Gaming (MLG) in 2006 and later by Activision Blizzard in 2016.
GameBattles played a significant role in organizing competitive tournaments and leagues, not only for Call of Duty but also for other titles like Overwatch and Call of Duty: Mobile. The closure comes amidst broader changes in Activision Blizzard's esports division following its acquisition by Microsoft. The shutdown of GameBattles marks the end of MLG's last active branch, leaving the future of MLG and GameBattles uncertain.
Why is Gamebattles Shutting Down?
The decision to shut down GameBattles stems from Activision Blizzard's broader restructuring of its esports division, which has witnessed significant changes following the closure of the Overwatch League. The announcement of GameBattles' closure was made on November 13, 2023, via its official Twitter page. Chris Evans, an Operations Supervisor at GameBattles, revealed that the entire team was informed of Activision Blizzard's choice to shut down GameBattles, making it the last remaining branch of MLG.
The reasons behind this decision remain unclear, prompting speculation about the untapped potential of MLG, GameBattles, and the future of esports. The closure has generated reactions from notable figures in the Call of Duty community, emphasizing the impact on the esports community and expressing hope for attention and support in the future. As of now, it is unknown what plans Activision Blizzard has for the future of MLG and GameBattles.
Gamebattles History
GameBattles has a rich history closely tied to Major League Gaming (MLG). MLG, founded in 2002 by Sundance DiGiovanni and Mike Sepso, became the first televised video game console gaming league in the United States in 2006. GameBattles, under MLG, has played a crucial role in organizing official video game tournaments across the United States and Canada.
Over the years, MLG underwent various changes and expansions, including financial backing from Ritchie Capital Management in 2009 and the acquisition of Agora Games in 2009. GameBattles contributed to the MLG Pro Circuit, hosting competitions for games like Halo, StarCraft II, Call of Duty, and more. In 2016, MLG was acquired by Activision Blizzard, signaling a new phase for the organization. The history of GameBattles is intertwined with MLG's evolution, showcasing its commitment to elevating computer and console game tournaments into competitive and spectator-friendly events.
Gamebattles Shutting Down - FAQs
GameBattles is closing due to broader restructuring in Activision Blizzard's esports division following the Overwatch League's closure.
Activision Blizzard's strategic changes and reorganization in the esports sector prompted the closure of GameBattles.
The decision is part of a larger shift in Activision Blizzard's esports division, impacting GameBattles and MLG.
The uncertain future of GameBattles and MLG raises concerns and leaves an impact on the esports landscape and the Call of Duty community.
Currently, there is no information about Activision Blizzard's plans for the future of MLG and GameBattles following the shutdown.