T1 vs. JDG: Semifinals Propelled League of Legends Viewership to New Heights
The semifinal matchup between T1 and JDG in the League of Legends Worlds tournament attracted a record-breaking number of viewers, surpassing even the grand finals in terms of peak viewership.
Despite a decline in regional viewership, Riot Games’ Worlds tournament remains immensely popular. Over four million viewers tuned in to watch the thrilling showdown between T1 and JDG. With T1 advancing to the grand finals, fans are eagerly anticipating Nov. 19th, hoping for a new viewership record to be set.
Unprecedented Star Power in the Grand Finals
In describing the grand finals, the phrase “star power” seems inadequate. T1 boasts Faker, a legendary figure in the world of League of Legends, known for his consistent excellence throughout his career. Despite not being in his prime anymore, Faker’s ability to reach the grand finals after a decade of competition is truly remarkable. As the most popular player in esports, his presence in the finals adds an incredible storyline for Riot Games.
While the grand finals are set for greatness, surpassing the previous viewership record may prove challenging. The T1 vs. JDG match was the one that fans were most excited about before the Worlds tournament began, which may result in lower interest in the finals between T1 and Weibo Gaming.
Looking Beyond Worlds: Sustaining Viewership in the Esports Industry
The record-breaking viewership during the semifinals highlights the international appeal of League of Legends, even if regional viewership in the West is struggling. Esports faces the ongoing challenge of maintaining steady viewership throughout the regular season, beyond the excitement of major tournaments. While attracting a large audience for high-profile matches like Worlds is important, the stability of the industry relies on consistent viewership for leagues like LCK, LCS, and LEC. This is a crucial question that needs to be addressed for the industry’s success in 2023.