GameBattles: A 20-Year Journey in Competitive Gaming to Close Down
In 2016, Activision Blizzard purchased Major League Gaming (MLG) for approximately $50 million. This acquisition included GameBattles, one of the most successful peer-to-peer competitive gaming platforms ever created. At that time, Activision emphasized no plans to “shutter businesses,” aiming instead to become more invested in the esports community.
The End of an Era: GameBattles to Shut Down on January 15, 2024
Today, it has been announced that the GameBattles platform will officially close on January 15, 2024. After two decades of hosting competitive gaming activities and nurturing top-tier talent, particularly in Call of Duty, the platform will cease to exist.
A Hub for Competitive Gamers: GameBattles’ Evolution and Impact
GameBattles began as a simple peer-to-peer platform, offering free-to-access ladders and cash tournaments. It later transformed into a legitimate esports event organizer. However, with more games featuring built-in Ranked Play modes, platforms like GameBattles began to lose ground.
Chris Evans, Operations Supervisor at GameBattles, shared:
“Call of Duty fans and pro players from around the world have expressed their grief over the impending loss of GameBattles. Social media feeds are filled with memories and reminiscences of days gone by, when they’d use the platform to find a wager against strangers contact. It was the best of times.”
A New Era in Competitive Gaming: Adapting to Change
As competitive gaming evolves, platforms like GameBattles must adapt or make way for the next generation. Activision Blizzard’s decision to discontinue GameBattles and potentially MLG could signify a shift in their focus, breaking away from the esports scene more earnestly.
Stay tuned to Insider Gaming for more coverage on this developing story and other gaming news. In the meantime, join the conversation below and share your fondest memories of GameBattles.
