Following the recent news that Activision Blizzard had bought over Major League Gaming (MLG) in a deal rumoured to be worth over $40 million, the Californian game company have released an official statement that expands on MLG’s role under the new settlement.
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A series of tweets sent out by both the official Activision Blizzard and MLG accounts earlier today confirmed the takeover that, for the publisher, marks another step towards it becoming the “ESPN of e-sports”.
An official statement followed, within which Activision Blizzard CEO Bobby Kotick said: “MLG’s ability to create premium content and its proven broadcast technology platform – including its live streaming capabilities – strengthens our strategic position in competitive gaming. MLG has an incredibly strong and seasoned team and a thriving community.
“Together, we will create new ways to celebrate players and their unique skills, dedication and commitment to gaming.”
Most interestingly, Activision Blizzard also confirmed that MLG co-founder Sundance DiGiovanni and “the entire MLG esports team” will be added to the publisher’s competitive gaming setups, contrary to initial reports that pointed to their dismissal. The terms of the deal dictate that MLG will now fall under Activision Blizzard Media Networks division, led by former ESPN CEO Steve Bornstein and MLG’s other co-founder Mike Sepso.
Sepso followed up saying:“Sundance and I founded MLG to highlight the incredible talent of competitive gamers all over the world. Activision Blizzard’s e-sports leadership, incredible intellectual property and long history in competitive gaming create a perfect home for MLG’s capabilities.
“The acquisition of MLG’s business is an important step towards Activision Blizzard Media Networks’ broader mission to bring esports into the mainstream by creating and broadcasting premium esports content, organizing global league play and expanding distribution with key gaming partners.”
Naturally, the takeover should help Activision Blizzard in their drive to boost their ever-burgeoning e-sports presence as they’ve now not only edged out and joined forced with a potential major competitor in MLG, but can also mine its infrastructure and vast experience.