This new partnership will ensure esports betting is by the book.
Activision/Blizzard has just partnered with betting-data firm Sportrader to institute betting monitoring… specifically in both the Overwatch and Call of Duty League.
Did you place your bet yet?
Breaking It Down
Through the multi-year deal, Sportrader will begin to observe a range of “global betting activity” connected to the two leagues, reporting any integrity concerns it finds viable to stop.
While this may seem like an enforcement of policy to some, it comes with good intentions. Mostly, helping the dire issues related to inconsistent match-fixing, inside information misuses, and other sorts of unethical or illegal activities related to betting and gambling.
Additionally, the firm will provide player education on betting risks and rules, including an anonymous reporting app for potential integrity issues.
Activision Blizzard esports head of strategic initiatives, Jason Hahn, had this to say in a recent press release.
“The Call of Duty League and Overwatch League have long taken steps to safeguard the integrity of matches, and working with Sportradar is a step to further reinforce the importance of fair play. As our esports activities continue to grow and as fans increasingly engage with wagering on matches, we need to ensure we are doing as much as we can to proactively protect our ecosystem.
Working with Sportradar, an industry leader, is important in protecting our players, teams and matches and giving fans the best experience they deserve. We look forward to establishing this relationship with Sportradar and the continued expansion of our work together.”
The Payoff
It is nice to see Activision/Blizzard trying hard to appease fans that are fed up with illegal betters. People in both COD and Overwatch are impasses in their respective communities, with many fans invested in franchises with a lot of changes on the table.
Warzone has certainly changed aspects of the COD community, possibly forever. And there is a great amount of help needed to safeguard gaming, so this partnership is a step in the right direction. The Overwatch League has had its troubles with pro players retiring and the rise of Valorant, but its still a staple esports for now. In addition, the Call of Duty League is gaining a ton of traction, and therefore, attention of all sorts.
However, there is already so much gambling and types of legal betting already going on that this may not really change a lot. There have been a lot of illegal footholds in the esports community already, most of which easily go under the radar. So, if this investment between companies pays off, this collaboration could consistently clean out illegal bets in esports.
But, just between you and me, how much do you want to bet it works out?
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