These layoffs reflect a larger trend in the tech and gaming industries, where companies face the need to adapt to economic pressures and shifting consumer preferences. Riot Games‘ decision aligns with similar moves by other tech giants like Google, Discord, and Twitch, marking a period of major transitions in the sector.

The decision to reduce workforce significantly has broader implications for the gaming industry. It raises questions about sustainable growth and the future direction of game development and esports.

Unpacking the Decision

Riot Games’ layoffs are a part of a strategic shift to focus on fewer, high-impact projects. This includes changes to “Legends of Runeterra” and the discontinuation of Riot Forge after the release of “Bandle Tale.”

The decision has led to a mix of reactions from the gaming community and industry experts.

While some understand the need for focus, others express concern for the affected employees and the future of Riot’s projects.

Riot’s Strategy

This layoff decision follows a pattern observed in the larger tech industry, where companies are streamlining their operations in response to economic challenges and evolving market dynamics.

Since the pandemic, companies have shown to invest far too much into marketing, leading to unrealistic expectations, and unsustainability in the broader sphere. Such downsizing is needed to ensure the company can re-align with their key business goals.

Riot Games’ move to downsize is seen as a realignment of its resources and efforts, focusing more on successful and sustainable projects.

Conclusion

Riot Games’ decision to lay off 530 employees marks a pivotal shift in its operational strategy, reflective of broader industry trends and economic conditions.

These changes could signal a new era in the gaming industry, emphasizing strategic focus and sustainability in game development.

The post Riot Games Announces Major Staff Layoffs Amidst Industry-Wide Changes appeared first on LeagueFeed.

Exciting Times Ahead: LEC 2024 Kicks Off with Major Changes

The League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) starts its 14th season on January 13, 2024. Ten European teams will compete in the Riot Games Arena in Berlin for a prize pool of €80,000, marking a new era in League of Legends history.

Riot Games Expands EMEA Region for 2024

EMEA now includes Turkey, CIS, and MENA, merging with Europe to create a unified competitive area, aiming to intensify competition and broaden the global audience.

New Format: Three Intense, 6-Week Splits

Winter, Spring, and Summer splits, each lasting six weeks, will culminate in exciting LEC playoffs. This new format promises more action and enhanced fan engagement.

Diverse Teams from Across Europe Compete

Teams from the UK, Spain, a UK-Spain fusion, France, the USA, and Germany are participating, each bringing unique dynamics and strategies to the competition.

These 10 teams are taking part:

1. Fnatic: Great Britain
2. G2 Esports: Spain
3. GIANTX: Merger of Excel Esports (UK) and Giants Gaming (Spain)
4. Karmine Corp: France
5. MAD Lions: Spain
6. Rogue: Originally USA, but represented in the European LEC
7. SK Gaming: Germany
8. Team BDS: Switzerland
9. Team Heretics: Spain
10. Team Vitality: France

Competition Format Changes: Simplified Structure

Group stages and playoffs are combined into a single group for a clearer, more understandable competition. Additional measures prevent repeat matchups in the lower round. You can find out more about the changes here.

The League of Legends scene is set for an exciting season with new teams, an expanded competition area, and a fresh format. LEC 2024 aims to thrill the esports world with top-notch matches and international involvement. Fans can follow the games on the official website and be part of this new era in League of Legends.

The post LEC 2024: A New Chapter in the League of Legends Universe appeared first on LeagueFeed.

Niklot Tolkin Stüber is making a return, but not in the way you might initially think. This time, he’s stepping behind the scenes rather than being front and center.

From LOL Pro to Main Streamer: Tolkin Takes on a New Role at LEC 2024

Xeet by @morgenmagazin, 2019

Starting January 13th, the LEC 2024 will see Tolkin in a new light: he’ll be the main streamer for the German broadcast. The now 25-year-old has already retired from his active playing career. At 22, he played League of Legends at a professional level, but he quit his pro career in 2020 to work as a caster for LoL at Summoner’s Inn. After a brief stint returning to play, he shifted to commentating on the World Championship on his own Twitch channel.

Tolkin Secures Broadcasting Rights for LEC 2024

Xeet by @TolkinLoL

In 2023, the broadcasting rights for League of Legends competitions were exclusively held by Summoner’s Inn. However, Tolkin’s surprising viewership numbers on Twitch during the 2023 Worlds surpassed the official stream of his former company, earning him the rights to co-stream the 2024 LEC Winter Split talents on his own Twitch channel.

The End of an Era for Summoner’s Inn

Xeet by @LEC

Now the lead caster for the German broadcast, Tolkin will be covering the 2024 Winter Splits of the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC). Streamers Naru and LynxCerez will take on the Turkish-language streaming.

Stream LEC 2024 with Tolkin or on Official German Team Twitch Channels

Xeet by @LEC

Tolkin isn’t the sole rights holder. The games can also be followed on the Twitch channels of German teams like G2 Esports or SK Gaming. Viewers have the option to watch the LEC Winter Splits with German commentary on Tolkin’s main stream or tune into the channels of these teams. Confirmation of G2 Esports and SK Gaming’s broadcasts is still pending.

The League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) kicks off its 14th season on January 13, 2024, with the LEC Winter Splits. Ten European teams will compete for a prize pool of €80,000 provided by Riot Games. The event will take place at the Riot Games Arena in Berlin, Germany.”

The post League of Legends: Tolkin’s Comeback – A Familiar Face Returns to the Esports Stage appeared first on LeagueFeed.

Watch the video on YouTube:

“Tomorrow is a hope – never a promise”

Xeet by @seagroves_logan

Words that kick off this four-minute trailer, showcasing a selection of LoL heroes in an epic battle. Featured are the winged demon Aatrox, angelic beings Kayle and Morgana, and Yasuo, presented as an older, honorable warrior in a new skin. The video is set to the epic song “Still Here,” a typical League of Legends track with anthemic elements, performed by Mary Clare Clemons (Forts) and Tiffany Aris.

Divine Judgment, Split Arrows, and Reviving Snowflakes

Xeet by @siteptbr

The video’s message is powerful and poignant, declaring the unwavering presence of the game’s characters: We’re still here! Standing strong in battle, undiminished by challenges, with relentless strength to not just continue, but to triumphantly conquer.

“Still Here” Breaks Records: Surpasses “More” and “Gods” with Jaw-Dropping View Counts

Xeet by @ChartsLoL

The cinematic rocketed to 5.1 million views in just 7 hours. This extrapolates to approximately 17.5 million views in 24 hours, significantly surpassing the 12 million views “More” garnered on its first day, theoretically placing “Still Here” at the top of the most successful cinematics. This hype has left its mark on social media as well. Millions of fans have shared their thoughts on the animated video on platform X. User @RicardoNishi1 comments, “Perfect Kayle as always. Morgana at least got the bind right so she can barbecue Darkin”. @YazBaee expresses excitement: “I’m so ready”. @mga02_ is astounded: “IT REACHED 20M WTF, well deserve”. And @RareWolfOCE shares his amazement: “IM SO IMPRESSED WITH THE NEW LEAGUE OF LEGENDS CINEMATIC OMG ITS BEAUTIFUL”.

A New Era Dawns

Xeet by @RareWolfOCE

2024 marks an exciting turning point for League of Legends. With the release of a brand-new anthem, Riot Games ushers in an era full of innovation and thrilling content. As part of these innovations, professional LoL coaches are available to optimally prepare players for the upcoming season. This trend has proven extremely beneficial, significantly enhancing players’ skills, deepening strategic understanding, and boosting their chances of success in the competitive League of Legends scene.

In 2024, there’s much more excitement surrounding League of Legends. Season 2 of Arcane is set to release in November on Netflix, and the farming simulation game “Bandle Tale: A League of Legends Story” is eagerly anticipated. Additionally, there’s great anticipation for “Project L”, a fighting game set in the League of Legends universe.

The post Unstoppable: Epic League of Legends Video Kicks Off 2024 Season, Captivating Millions appeared first on LeagueFeed.

Xeet by @Gamers8GG:

Despite Open Details: Strong Western Presence Expected at the Event

Xeet by @TEAdvocated

Although many specific aspects of the event are yet to be clarified, one thing is certain: significant participation from Western teams is assured. This underscores the global appeal and broad international involvement expected for the event.

The transformation of Gamers8 into a global spectacle will feature an impressive array of disciplines beyond Riot Games‘ well-known League of Legends. Potential participants in the eSports World Cup could include games like Valorant, Rainbow Six: Siege, EA Sports FC24, and Call of Duty.

This selection hints at a remarkable diversity. With a wide range of disciplines planned for the over eight-week-long World Cup, strong representation from at least three key regions – China, the USA, and Europe – can be expected. This broad international participation reflects the global reach and influence of the event.

Western Skepticism: Between Participation and Sportswashing Accusations

Xeet by @H_R_Matter

The question of how the West will position itself towards the upcoming major gaming event in the summer of 2024 remains open. There are repeated statements and reports labeling the event as “sportswashing.” This criticism implies that the event could be used to enhance the international reputation of the host country through the positive reputation of the event.

This, in turn, casts the organizer in a critical light. This perception might lead to Western teams participating, but extensive and detailed coverage in Western media could be lacking.

Tensions in the Media World: Western Rejection Could Make Access Difficult for Fans, While BRICS Nations Celebrate the Event

Xeet by @RushindraSinha

Whether this approach is the right way in a multilateral world economy is debatable. However, the real possibility exists that the Western media world may distance itself from the sports event. This could make it more difficult for gaming fans in the West to follow the live broadcast of the spectacular event in the summer of 2024 – or at least in a timely manner.

In contrast, it is expected that this event will be widely covered in the media in Russia and China, as the BRICS nations are unlikely to miss such an opportunity.

Global E-Sport Market in Transition: Savy Games Group Acquires ESL Gaming and Brings the World Cup 2024 to Riyadh

Xeet by @Gamers8GG

The media can hardly ignore the World Cup 2024 in Riyadh, especially due to the involvement of a formerly German company. The Savy Games Group, a leading investor in the gaming sector in Saudi Arabia with stakes in companies like Nintendo and Ubisoft, has acquired ESL Gaming, formerly based in Cologne.

This company was instrumental in organizing major e-sport events in Europe. Ralf Reichert, the founder and long-time leader of ESL Gaming, will now focus on organizing e-sport events in Saudi Arabia.

Despite Criticism: Extensive Advertising in the West for the Opulent Event

Xeet by @Cook_Esport

The reason for the already extensive advertising in the West for the spectacle in Saudi Arabia could be the acquisition of ESL Gaming by the Savy Games Group. This significantly differentiates the situation from the previous Gamers8. Platforms like Twitter already provide an impression of the opulent arrangement of the Esports World Cup 2024, and leading newspapers and magazines are already reporting intensively on the event.

The reactions of the gaming community in our hemisphere have so far been reserved. However, it is expected that this will change once the World Cup 2024 is first staged in all its glory. Events in Saudi Arabia are known for their sensational luxury, which leaves no one indifferent.

The western media cannot completely ignore the World Cup 2024 in Saudi Arabia. However, interested parties should mark the date in their calendar and do their own research. Solely relying on the media is not advisable, as the coverage may not reflect the full grandeur and scope of the event.

For those who do not wish to research in Chinese or Saudi Arabian news sources, Leaguefeed.net offers a reliable alternative. We will follow the entire tournament and keep you continuously informed about all developments.

The post eSports World Cup 2024 – A Turning Point in Gaming? How Will the West Position Itself? appeared first on LeagueFeed.

Record Winnings in Sight: Winners Could Take Home Over $40 Million

A grandiose event in the world of eSports is on the horizon: The very first eSports World Cup is set to take place in the summer of 2024! Riyadh, the capital city of Saudi Arabia, will host this historic event, where participants will battle for a staggering prize pool. Insiders suggest that the prize money could exceed an impressive $40 million, catapulting eSports into a league comparable to soccer.

Xeet by @Gamers8GG

Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince Announces First Esports World Cup for 2024  

Xeet by @Saudi_Esports

Previously a gaming festival named Gamers8, Saudi Arabia’s Crown Prince and Prime Minister, Mohammed bin Salman, plans to completely reinvent it in 2024. The introduction of a new Esports World Cup is planned, replacing the Gamers8 Festival. This move aims to significantly expand and enhance the event. While established disciplines like Fortnite, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike were already staples, the tournament will now include a plethora of other competitions, including Riot’s popular game League of Legends.

Spectacular Gaming Event Expected in Summer 2024

Xeet by @Gamers8GG:

The gaming extravaganza is scheduled for the summer of 2024, and it is anticipated that the eight weeks over which the event will span are going to be an unparalleled spectacle of grandeur. With the customary splendor typical for events in Saudi Arabia, this spectacle promises to be an unprecedented highlight. But not only the event itself, organized by Savy Games Group, a major investor in the Saudi gaming sector, will impress with its grand staging; the prize money is also expected to reach levels that hint at new records.

A Prize Pool to Rival the FIFA World Cup?

Xeet by @Saudi_Esports

While exact details of the prize money and participating games for the upcoming ESports World Cup are yet to be announced, initial reports indicate a new era in the world of eSports. Renowned sports news site insidethegames.biz mentions that the ESports World Cup will surpass the previous record prize money of Gamers8. This suggests that the ESports World Cup will offer well over $4 million in prize money.

Could the Prize Pool Surpass the $40 Million Mark?

Xeet by @Gamers8GG

However, expectations for the upcoming eSports World Cup’s prize pool go well beyond $4 million. Organizers have announced an unprecedented level of prize money. Speculation suggests that the amount for the World Cup could significantly exceed the highest ever payout in eSports history. It’s even anticipated that the prize pool could surpass the $40 million threshold, propelling eSports into a league with professional soccer. For context, the winning team at the 2022 FIFA World Cup, Argentina, was awarded a prize of $42 million.

The assumption that the $40 million mark could be surpassed in a 2024 eSports event in Saudi Arabia stems from the fact that this amount has already been paid out in eSports. For example, “The International 2021” (Dota 2) had previously awarded a prize pool of $40 million. Typically, similar eSports events pay out between $15 and $20 million. Given the announcement by the organizers of the World Cup in Riyadh to offer an unprecedented prize pool, it’s plausible that it will exceed $40 million.

Preparations for the event, destined to shine with unmatched brilliance, are already underway. It’s expected that BRICS nations like China will play a significant role. The West’s position on the event remains to be seen. Regardless, the new World Cup in Saudi Arabia is sure to attract immense interest, especially due to its record-breaking prize pool. We’re keeping an eye on the developments leading up to the summer of 2024 and will keep you continuously informed.

The post League of Legends: Most Lavish World Championship Ever Expected in Saudi Arabia in 2024! appeared first on LeagueFeed.

The Finals: A Lightning-Fast Sensation in the Shooter Scene! This Free2Play hit on Steam has rapidly surpassed the player base of CoD Modern Warfare 3 – all within a few days!

Xeet by @reachthefinals

Record-Breaking Success: The Finals Hits 10 Million Players and Hundreds of Thousands of Online Fans in Just 3 Weeks

The Finals has taken the online community by storm. In just three weeks, the game not only racked up an impressive 10 million active players but also built a remarkable online presence. On Twitter, the game has already attracted around 150,000 followers, while its official YouTube trailer boasts a sensational 2.5 million views. The excitement is also palpable on Reddit, with about 92,000 members in the subreddit r/thefinals. These figures highlight the extraordinary success and rapidly growing popularity of The Finals among gamers worldwide. And the game is just getting started. Now is an easy entry point, offering a chance to achieve a lot.

Official Trailer on YouTube:

Gamer Community Celebrates “The Finals”: Enthusiasm and New Favorites on Social Media

Players are overwhelmingly thrilled with “The Finals,” as seen by the reactions on social networks. X-user @StallionStreams can hardly contain himself: “Y’all making me wanna get on & play so bad rn,” with user @ItsShxttered replying enthusiastically: “DO IT!!!”. X-user @TPRx11 is smitten, sharing: “I love this game so much.” Meanwhile, user @TypicalOutlaw seems to have found a new favorite: “This is so cool lol.” These and many other comments reflect the gaming community’s excitement for the game.

Embark Studios Launches ‘The Finals’: A Free2Play Shooter Where Teamwork and Strategy Lead to Fame and Fortune

Introducing The Finals:

The Finals is a dynamic Free2Play arcade shooter from Embark Studios, released overnight from December 7 to December 8, 2023. The game unfolds as an action-packed game show where players, as virtual gladiators, compete in teams of three for prize money, fame, and new sponsorships’ attention. In The Finals, the objective is to secure Cashboxes, transport them to ATMs, and defend them against rival teams until the cash is safely deposited into your account. Success in this game hinges on clever teamwork, with the wealthiest team emerging victorious.

The Finals is available for PC users through Steam and Nvidia’s GeForce Now cloud gaming service. It’s also available in digital stores for PS5, Microsoft Windows, and Xbox Series X and S. Note: A version for last-gen consoles like PS4 is not currently available.

The post The Finals Takes the Shooter World by Storm appeared first on LeagueFeed.

In an exhilarating first week of the League of Legends European Championship (LEC) 2024, players from around the globe showcased their extraordinary talent.

Xeet by @ExpressLOL_

LEC 2024 in Berlin: A New Chapter in Esports Begins with Record Audiences and Outstanding Player Performances

New Riot Games Arena, Berlin @LEC

The League of Legends European Championship (LEC) 2024, which kicked off on January 13th in Berlin, is already shaping up to be a remarkable event in the esports calendar. The high expectations have been surpassed not only by a stunning increase in viewer numbers, which far exceeded predictions, but also by the exceptional performances of the players.

The electrifying atmosphere and tension-filled games signify a new era in esports, where both emerging talents and established stars are proving their skills at the highest level. This development promises not just an exciting current season but also thrilling prospects for the future of esports.

A Thunderous Start to the Season

Led by Exakicklol from France, who seized the top spot with an impressive 21 kills, fans witnessed a true display of skill. Supa_LoL from Spain and Patriklol from the Czech Republic closely followed with 17 kills each, while Irrelevanttop from Germany and CompGRE from Greece each contributed 14 kills. The list of top players, all shining with 12 kills – Nisqy, Sheo_lol, YikeLoL, and Noah_lol1004 – reflects the impressive international diversity of the LEC.

Already at the start of its season in Berlin, LEC 2024 is leaving a sensational and unforgettable impression. With an impressive lineup of international talent and a passionate fan base watching in droves, the league is poised for a bright future. The question now is: How will this thunderous start evolve?

Can the players enhance their remarkable performances, and will the LEC solidify its position as one of the most significant events in esports? One thing is certain: The 2024 season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting and dynamic in the history of the LEC, and the esports world is eagerly anticipating what’s yet to come.

The post Spectacular Start to LEC 2024: International Stars Shine with Record Kills! appeared first on LeagueFeed.

Kia Motors is solidifying its role in the esports world, continuing as the primary sponsor of the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC) for the sixth consecutive year. This commitment is set to endure, with Kia extending its partnership until 2026, supporting the LEC’s growth and development in the next two years.

Xeet by @LEC

.@Kia_Worldwide will continue as a Main Partner for the #LEC until 2026!

Read: https://t.co/Tq7ADDrhRz pic.twitter.com/mN49FCRzhq

— LEC (@LEC) January 12, 2024

Rising Popularity of eSports: A Global Phenomenon

The latest LEC season’s commencement has brought not only electrifying competitions but also a surge in viewership, breaking previous records. This surge exemplifies the increasing mainstream acceptance and popularity of esports tournaments. The growth in viewership signifies a broader appeal of esports as a competitive and captivating arena, drawing diverse fans globally and cementing its place in the contemporary sports and entertainment world.

Amplifying Success: The Power of Doubling Down in Esports

Xeet by @MovistarKOI

E-sports is becoming the fastest growing area in the sports sector worldwide, with League of Legends having the largest viewer base in this sector globally. Kia, as an innovative and forward-thinking car manufacturer, recognizes the enormous potential and dynamism of this sector and wants to actively participate in this success. The brand strives to connect with young talent and their emerging careers in the esports world to not only strengthen the brand, but also to engage and inspire a new generation of sports enthusiasts.

Kia and LEC: a dynamic combo

Xeet by @TeamBDS

This season marks an expansion of Kia’s involvement in esports, as they take on a new role as the presenting sponsor for three distinguished LEC awards: the Kia All-Pro Team, Kia Player of the Game, and Kia 2024 Season MVP. This initiative by Kia not only honors the skills and aspirations of top players but also strengthens Kia’s connection with the vibrant esports community. These accolades serve to celebrate extraordinary talent in esports, reflecting Kia’s dedication to nurturing and elevating the competitive gaming sphere.

The LEC 2024, launched on January 13 in Berlin, is set for a season of intense competition among Europe’s finest teams. The grand finale, scheduled for late August in Munich, will climax with Kia presenting the awards ceremony. Promising unforgettable clashes and pivotal moments, this season is poised to further sculpt the landscape of esports history.

The post 2024 LEC – EMEA Championship: Kia Continues as the Principal Sponsor appeared first on LeagueFeed.

Record-Breaking Viewership

This year’s standout marketing, along with the popularity of teams with massive followings, played a key role in these impressive numbers.

Xeet by @TeamBDS

Viewership Explosion: More Fans at the Opener than Last Year’s Finals

On January 13, 2024, the LEC launched the new League of Legends season with its Winter Split, hitting an incredible 600,000+ viewers at the start. This is a major leap from 2023’s Winter Splits, which averaged around 280,000 viewers. Even last year’s final phase didn’t see as many eyes (510,000 viewers) as this year’s opener.

Esports: The New Chess – Rising Status of Esports

The surge in viewership can be attributed to the ever-growing popularity of esports and enhanced marketing and promotional efforts.

Teams Bringing Their Fan Armies to the LEC

Xeet by @FNATIC

Teams are increasingly bringing their robust fan bases to the tournaments. Fnatic, hailing from Great Britain, boasts a staggering 1.7 million fans. Their Friday match against Karmine Corp attracted about 618,000 viewers. Spain’s Team G2, with a 1.5 million fan base, even outdid this with around 645,000 viewers for their Friday match.

Fnatic and G2, Still Undefeated

Xeet by @G2League

Both teams have already clinched victories. Fnatic won matches on both Saturday and Sunday, maintaining an unbeaten streak. Team G2 mirrors this success. Currently, it’s smooth sailing for both Great Britain and Spain.

Check Out the Current Rankings Here:

lolesports.com

As the LEC 2024 season continues, we eagerly anticipate how the strategies and dynamics will evolve. Will the current frontrunners maintain their lead, or will underdogs rise to challenge them? Keep following for more gripping matches and compelling stories from the world of competitive League of Legends. The journey to find the ultimate champion is just heating up!

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