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Professional Overwatch League Coming Soon
Sombra isn't the only Overwatch news hailing out of Blizzcon 2016. The Overwatch League is a league for professional Overwatch players starting in 2017 that focuses on long-term stability for both the teams and individuals that comprise them. It mimics professional athletic sports by giving players minimum salaries, benefits, a regular schedule, and more.
Blizzard will hold a combine at the beginning of the season where eligible, proven competitive players will try out for teams for a chance to get signed. Signed players will be given a contract, benefits, and a minimum baseline salary. Teams will represent major cities from different regions in order to support growth and sustainability of local fan bases. Once teams are inducted into the league, their spots will be locked in, which allows for the teams and fans to grow.
"The Overwatch League represents not only the pinnacle of Overwatch competition, but also a genuine career opportunity for the most skilled Overwatch players," said Mike Morhaime, CEO and cofounder of Blizzard Entertainment. "We're building a league that's accessible to players and fans, sustainable, and exciting for everyone involved."
Blizzard promises more details in the coming months on the Overwatch League website.
Our Take
Overwatch's competitive scene is still pretty active, but this is the next step to bring it up to the next level. The benefits and salaries are a much-needed step to make esports a more viable path for professional players. Going by real names might be a great move too but that still might be a ways away.
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