Riot Games Signs $350 Million Deal for Commercialization of League of Legends Esports
Riot Games, the creator of League of Legends, has recently partnered with BAMTech, the streaming technology arm of MLB Advanced Media, in a seven-year deal worth $350 million. This partnership aims to enhance the commercialization and monetization of League of Legends esports.
The Deal’s Details
Under the agreement, BAMTech will pay Riot Games $50 million annually, with the first $50 million of generated revenue going to BAMTech. Any profits above this initial amount will be shared between BAMTech and Riot Games.
No Exclusive Streaming Rights or Paywall Service
Contrary to previous reports and speculations, both Riot Games and BAMTech have clarified that this deal does not grant any exclusive streaming rights or introduce a paywall service for esports broadcasts. Popular platforms like Twitch will continue to host competitions like the LCS, and streams offered on free platforms will still be available in HD.
Earlier reports, including an article from the Wall Street Journal, alleged that BAMTech would receive exclusive streaming rights to the LCS. However, Riot Games founder Marc Merrill promptly denied these claims, emphasizing that this was not the case.
Potential for a Premium Viewer Experience
While this deal ensures no immediate changes to how fans watch League of Legends esports on platforms like Twitch, Riot Games esports heads Whalen Rozelle and Jarred Kennedy have hinted that BAMTech may offer a “premium experience” for viewers in the future.
The Future of Streaming Rights in Esports
With this partnership, Riot Games and BAMTech have entered into a significant deal that sets the stage for a potential battle over streaming rights in the future. As of now, however, fans can continue enjoying their favorite League of Legends esports on existing platforms without any major disruptions.
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