Respawn Entertainment and Electronic Arts (EA) have reaffirmed their commitment to Apex Legends esports by announcing partnerships for the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS) Year Four. This initiative involves collaboration with twelve esports organizations to enhance community support for Apex’s competitive scene.
ALGS Year Four Partnership Program
The Year Four partnership program includes prominent teams like TSM, XSET, OpTic Gaming, FaZe, FURIA, DarkZero, LG Chivas, Moist Esports, and Disguised from North America, with Alliance from EMEA, and Fnatic and Riddle from Asia Pacific North.
Selection Criteria
Teams were selected based on factors such as previous ALGS involvement, competitive performance, and commitment to growing the global Apex community.
Financial Stipend and Community Building
Each partnered organization receives a financial stipend to support their competitive programs. Respawn will collaborate with these teams to expand their fan base and establish community connections, offering multiple content opportunities.
Initiatives for Teams
Plans include media training, dedicated days for photoshoots and interviews at LAN events, expanded team booths, and the ability to host officially licensed tournaments.
Commitment to Long-Term Success
John Nelson, senior director and commissioner of the ALGS, emphasizes the importance of competitors and esports organizations in the success of ALGS. The focus is on innovating with partner teams and building a sustainable ecosystem.
Addressing Financial Stability
The financial support to each partnered team addresses past concerns about financial instability in the Apex scene, which had been a significant challenge for organizations.
Notable Team Involvements
Patrik Sattermon from Fnatic acknowledges the support from EA and the community, highlighting the success of their Japanese lineup and the significance of this partnership for long-term sustainability in Apex Legends.
Disguised’s Return
Jeremy “Disguised Toast” Wang, CEO of Disguised, shares his excitement for re-entering the Apex scene as a partnered team, citing his investment in the ALGS Championship and the future potential in esports.
The Road Ahead
The Preseason Qualifiers for Year Four are underway, running from Nov. 25 to Dec. 18. These will determine the final teams for each region’s Pro League before the start of Split One on Jan. 20, 2024, across all regions.