Atlantic City, a cornerstone of casino gaming on the East Coast, is set to expand its repertoire by hosting a significant new event in the esports arena. The city announced this week that it will be the venue for the upcoming “2023 Atlantic Showdown,” an esports tournament that is expected to attract gamers and spectators from across the globe.
Scheduled for the fall of 2023, the event signals Atlantic City’s strategy to diversify its entertainment and gaming offerings, tapping into the rapidly growing esports industry. This move aligns with its ongoing efforts to rejuvenate its tourism and gaming sectors post-pandemic. The Atlantic Showdown will feature popular games such as “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” and “League of Legends,” and boasts a substantial total prize pool of $250,000.
“The introduction of an esports tournament is part of our broader vision to transform Atlantic City into a diverse entertainment hub, not just a casino city,” stated Maria Sanchez, Director of Atlantic City Tourism. “Esports attracts a younger demographic and represents a significant opportunity to bring new energy and visitors to our city.”
Esports, competitive video gaming watched by spectators, has exploded in popularity over the last decade, evolving into a billion-dollar industry with its own superstars and massive fan following. According to Newzoo, a global provider of games and esports analytics, the global esports audience will grow to 474 million in 2023, with revenues expected to surpass $1 billion.
Atlantic City’s entry into the esports sector is timely, as the city seeks innovative avenues to boost its economy. The pandemic hit the city’s casinos hard, with revenues plummeting due to prolonged closures and capacity limits. By integrating esports into its offering, Atlantic City may not only recoup lost revenue but also set a precedent for other casino cities.
The 2023 Atlantic Showdown will be held at the historic Boardwalk Hall, which will be equipped with state-of-the-art gaming infrastructure and broadcasting facilities to host and stream the event. Organizers are expecting over 10,000 attendees and millions more online viewers from around the world.
Jane Kim, an esports analyst, remarked on the development: “Atlantic City hosting an esports event is a monumental step not just for the city but for the industry as a whole. It reflects growing acceptance and integration of esports within traditional entertainment sectors.”
Moreover, the city plans to collaborate with local universities offering courses in game design and interactive media to provide students with internships and real-world experience during the event. This initiative is expected to foster a new generation of game developers and esports enthusiasts within the region.
The announcement has already generated buzz on social media, with potential attendees and professional gamers expressing their excitement and plans to participate. Local businesses, including hotels and restaurants, are also preparing for the influx of visitors, anticipating a significant boost to local commerce.
As Atlantic City prepares to welcome the future of gaming, the 2023 Atlantic Showdown could mark a new chapter in its storied history as a premiere entertainment destination. This event not only promises intense gaming action but also signifies a strategic pivot towards a more diversified and sustainable economic model for the famed resort city.