The global gaming industry has seen unprecedented growth in recent years, and major brands are capitalizing on this trend by forming strategic partnerships to strengthen their brand visibility and reach.
These partnerships, which often involve sponsorships, collaborations, and marketing deals, have far-reaching impacts on the international market and the gaming industry’s ecosystem.
In this report, we will examine some of the notable brands and partnerships shaping the gaming landscape, assess their overall influence, and explore future trends and potential challenges.
Major Brands and Partnerships
Nike x eSports Partnership
One of the most significant partnerships in the gaming industry is between global sports apparel giant Nike and various eSports organizations.
This collaboration includes sponsorships, apparel deals, and promotional campaigns that aim to enhance both brand visibility and player lifestyle.
Key components of the partnership include Nike providing eSports teams with customized jerseys and footwear.
Additionally, Nike has developed marketing campaigns featuring well-known eSports players to showcase the brand’s commitment to the gaming world.
Other Notable Partnerships
- Coca-Cola x eSports: Coca-Cola has established a strong presence in the gaming industry, partnering with eSports organizations such as Overwatch League, Riot Games (League of Legends), and more. These partnerships involve a combination of sponsorships, marketing campaigns, and event collaborations.
- BMW x eSports: BMW has teamed up with major eSports organizations like Cloud9, Fnatic, and G2 Esports for joint marketing campaigns and sponsorships, showcasing the luxury automaker’s interest in the eSports world.
- Mastercard x Riot Games: In 2018, Mastercard signed a multi-year sponsorship deal with Riot Games, the organizer of League of Legends professional tournaments. The partnership includes exclusive offers, in-game rewards, and live-event activations for Mastercard cardholders.
Impact on International Market and Industry Growth
While global reach and local presence vary from partnership to partnership, these collaborations are driving overall growth in the gaming industry.
By affiliating themselves with well-established brands, gaming organizations gain access to new markets and resources, ultimately contributing to an expanding international market and industry growth.
The increasing investment from major brands in the gaming industry has also led to increased professionalism and improved infrastructure.
For example, Nike’s apparel deals provide eSports players with proper gear, enhancing their performance and lifestyle, while brands like Intel and Alienware impact gaming tech and hardware upgrades.
Market Shifts and Industry Ecosystem Influence
These partnerships have significantly influenced the gaming landscape and the industry’s ecosystem. Brands can gain footing in the gaming market and capture the attention of a diverse audience, attracting even more brands, investors, and advertisers to the market.
This influx of resources and investments have provided game developers, publishers, and eSports organizations with opportunities to innovate and create immersive gaming experiences for their audience. As a result, the growth in revenue and market size noticeably impacts the gaming industry.
Future Predictions and Emerging Opportunities
As gaming continues to grow in both popularity and industry value, we can expect more significant brands to invest in and explore their own partnerships at various levels of the gaming ecosystem.