10 Mar Nerd Street Gamers expands Riot Games partnership
Esports infrastructure company Nerd Street Gamers (NSG) has expanded its partnership with video game publisher Riot Games.
The new agreement will see NSG operate and produce all three stages of the North American VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT). The previous deal between both entities, which was stuck in January 2021, only included the first stage.
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Alongside operating the Champions Tour, NSG will also operate the first tournament in the VALORANT Game Changers Series, a new programme organised by Riot Games that aims to create a range of opportunities for women and marginalised genders.
John Fazio, CEO of Nerd Street Gamers, commented on the news in a release: “Our focus on consumer access requires that we invest heavily in amateur ecosystem development to increase opportunities for gamers.
“Riot’s support of the amateur ecosystem, by fueling these open tournaments, is the largest factor of the success we’re seeing. We are proud to empower them with our competitive infrastructure to execute their vision and reach as many gamers as possible.”
RELATED: Nerd Street Gamers to operate first stage of VALORANT Champions Tour
Matthew Archambault, Head of Esports Partnerships at Riot Games NA and OCE, also spoke on the expansion: “Our relationship with Nerd Street Gamers has been a core driver in the growth of the VALORANT competitive scene.
“With the company’s expertise in esports tournament operations, we can distinguish our VALORANT tournaments as a force in the industry rooted in high-quality professional-grade opportunities. Nerd Street has continuously proved to be a trusted partner and we are excited to extend our relationship with the Champions Tour and level it up with VCT Game Changers Series.”
Esports Insider says: In January 2021, Riot Games outlined its plans to utilise another company after March for VCT’s subsequent stages. However, considering the success of VCT stage one, it’s no surprise to see Riot Games and Nerd Street Gamers expand the partnership.
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