Blizzard Entertainment, Inc., the creative minds behind Overwatch 2, and ESL FACEIT Group (EFG), a pioneer in the world of esports and video game entertainment, have announced a multi-year partnership in an incredible partnership. Through the Overwatch Champions Series (OWCS), this strategic alliance hopes to revitalize Overwatch 2 esports and usher in a new era.
OWCS is a dynamic, international phenomenon that aims to revolutionize competitive gaming, not merely an esports circuit. Playable throughout North America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East and North Africa (EMEA), OWCS ushers in a momentous new era for Blizzard’s first-person shooter. It’s a platform that is constantly available, open, and prepared to blow the esports scene apart.
Jared Neuss, Executive Producer of Overwatch 2, expresses excitement about this groundbreaking collaboration: “A thriving esports scene is important to a game as competitive as Overwatch 2, and we’re very excited to be entering this next era for the franchise with EFG.”
EFG takes the reins as the premier operator of OWCS, paving the way for an inclusive and sustainable competitive community. Craig Levine, Co-CEO of ESL FACEIT Group, envisions a global experience on the FACEIT platform and at DreamHack festivals, saying, “OWCS introduces a new era of Overwatch esports while honoring the traditions and passion built by Overwatch esports.”
WDG, a well-known esports competition organizer with headquarters in Korea, will be in charge of the Asia OWCS circuit, while EFG will supervise OWCS activities in EMEA and North America. Open qualifying and tournaments will be held in each area, leading up to two live, international events that bring together players and spectators from all over the world.
In 2024, the OWCS will be the main attraction in two flagship events held at DreamHack festivals, which are renowned for their intense gaming environments. The world’s best teams will compete at the DreamHack Dallas Major in May–June and the DreamHack Stockholm World Finals in November, which will mark the return of a historic live Tier 1 Overwatch competition to Europe after more than five years.
The world’s top competitive gaming platform, FACEIT, will enhance the Overwatch 2 community by offering both professional and amateur gamers an open infrastructure. For OWCS stars, a full calendar of tournaments and community programs seeks to provide a clear route to professional play. Additionally, FACEIT will facilitate community events and contests run by third parties.
Through the official website and social media outlets, Overwatch fans may keep informed about developments related to the OWCS as they wait for the next competitions. The cooperation between Blizzard and EFG is more than simply a business arrangement; it’s a statement of the thrilling future that Overwatch 2 esports hold.