Season 19 of ESL Pro League proved to be a remarkable success, capturing the attention of audiences and achieving a surge in viewership. Despite a shortened three-week season, the tournament delivered on all fronts, offering entertainment and excitement to fans. This article will delve into the highlights of the ESL Pro League Season 19 and explore the factors that contributed to its success.
One of the notable aspects of this season was the increase in average viewership. According to Esports Charts, the average Counter Strike 2 viewership for this EPL season reached its highest point since season 16 in 2022. Throughout the tournament, an impressive 154,967 fans tuned in on average, marking a nearly 20 percent increase compared to the previous year. In addition, over 370,000 viewers witnessed MOUZ emerge victorious and claim back-to-back league titles.
The grand final between MOUZ and Vitality, although experiencing a decrease in peak concurrent viewers, was overshadowed by the overall success of the season. The organizers tackled a common complaint within the CS2 community regarding the length of the tournament. To address this concern, they implemented a three-week format, condensing the expansive 24-team tournament. This decision proved to be a wise move, keeping the interest of viewers intact.
Aside from the format adjustment, the ESL Pro League Season 19 also introduced well-produced skits to enhance the entertainment factor. The casting and hosting talent took the reins in creating content that resonated with the community. These skits, featuring notable CS2 players, mimicked popular culture and films like Fight Club, The Lord of the Rings, and Dune. The inclusion of these skits received positive feedback, making the overall experience more enjoyable for fans.
In terms of competition, it was a remarkable journey for the young guns of MOUZ. They showcased an impeccable performance, dominating the group stage and playoffs on their way to securing their second EPL title in as many events. Led by Captain Kamil “siuhy” Szkaradek, MOUZ proved their mettle and emerged victorious. On the other hand, Vitality’s ZywOo had an outstanding tournament, with an impressive 1.70 HLTV rating leading up to the grand final.
Looking ahead, ESL has announced that Pro League Season 20 will return to Malta in early September. Fans can expect another thrilling three-week event, filled with top-tier CS2 competition.
In conclusion, ESL Pro League Season 19 captivated audiences with its exciting matches and well-produced skits. The condensed three-week format addressed concerns regarding the tournament’s length, resulting in increased viewership. The performances of teams like MOUZ and individual players like ZywOo added to the competitiveness and thrill of the event. With the success of this season, anticipation builds for the upcoming Pro League Season 20 in Malta.