The 2023 League of Legends World Championship (Worlds 2023) has not just enthralled fans worldwide but also set a new record in esports media value. According to Shikenso Analytics, a leading esports data and analysis firm, Worlds 2023 generated an unprecedented media value of over 133 million euros.
Surpassing Previous Records
- Comparison with Other Events: This figure doubles the media value of the Mid-Season Invitational, which stood at 66 million euros. In contrast, the BLAST.tv Paris Major in CS:GO generated around 46 million euros, while IEM Cologne reached 31.28 million euros.
Methodology Behind the Calculation
- Tools and Techniques: Shikenso’s data, obtained via the Esports Radar tool, combines audience reporting and media value analysis. The AI tool assesses sponsor logo placements during broadcasts, estimating the value gained from audience exposure.
- Factors Considered: Media value is calculated considering brand impressions, spectator demographics, and advertising costs.
Key Highlights from Worlds 2023
- Co-streaming Impact: Almost half of the total media value was generated through co-streaming, indicating its effectiveness in reaching audiences.
- Audience Demographics: Over 90% of the viewers were above 18, with men constituting 88.2% of the audience.
Top Sponsors
- Amazon Web Services (AWS): Emerged as the top sponsor, contributing approximately 22.6 million euros in media value.
- Mercedes-Benz and Red Bull: Followed closely in generating significant media value.
Diverse Sponsorship Assets
Tarik Amhamdi, CEO of Shikenso, highlights the unique utilization of sponsorship assets in Worlds 2023. The tournament’s creative use of rotating rift banners during peak game moments, along with branded cups, chairs, and the ‘Featured Matchup’ format, all contributed to its high media value.
Shikenso’s Broader Involvement
- Partnerships: In 2023 alone, Shikenso has partnered with prominent esports organizations like Fnatic, Ninjas in Pyjamas, G2 Esports, M80, and Team Vitality for sponsorship performance analysis.
League of Legends World Championship Sets a New Benchmark
Worlds 2023 not only provided thrilling gameplay but also showcased the immense potential of esports as a high-value media platform. The strategic placement of sponsorship assets and the evolving format of broadcasts like co-streaming have significantly boosted the media value, setting a new standard in the industry.