New Zealand-based Esports media company Let's Play Live is increasing its local presence with the acquisition of subscription-based website CyberGamer.
LPL is a growing television broadcaster, event producer, IP owner and talent management business, dedicated to the Esports sector, with a global reach, broadcasting multiple international gaming tournaments.
The acquisition of CyberGamer, which provides PC and console (Xbox 360 and PS4) users with ladders, leagues and forums, continues to build upon LPL's growth in the industry.
In February 2018, the business launched the Australasian region’s first direct-to-TV studio, which has broadcast more than 100 events, including 65 live television broadcasts.
CyberGamer has grown from a hobby site to serving over 12,500,105 unique users globally, as the website has grown into Australia and New Zealand’s largest community esports website with 387,741 registered ANZ members.
As part of the acquisition, CyberGamer founder Jeremy Klaosen will join LPL as head of platform, continuing his work with the platform, while also expanding its offering.
“We are delighted that Jeremy has joined the team and look forward to expanding on the phenomenal job he and James and their team have done to date," LPL director Duane Mutu said.
"CyberGamer has a rich legacy in ANZ esports and we have deep respect for their achievements and community focus.”
Mutu added the acquisition gives LPL the ability to provide more opportunities for grassroots players and a "pathway" for them to compete in televised and online pro tournaments.
LPL also runs regular gaming shows and has partnered with groups like the All Blacks and NRL to help them engage with the gaming community.
In 2018, Esports rapidly increased its presence in the Australian market, with two of the major radio networks, both Nova Entertainment and Australian Radio Network (ARN), stamping their place in the sector.
Last year, Nova entered into an exclusive strategic partnership with ESL, the world’s largest eSports company, while ARN continued its work with Gfinity Esports Australia.
Despite the growth, not all have been sold on the future of the sport, with Southern Cross Austereo CEO Grant Blackley previously labelling the Esports industry in Australia 'the wild west' in terms of securing rights and profitable deals.
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