The first major offline LAN event for professional Overwatch since the dissolution of the Overwatch League and the launch of the Champion Series is set to begin on May 31. The total prize pool for this event will be uniquely determined by the sales of in-game bundles.
Hanzo Skins for Crowdfunding
During the OWCS Dallas Major, running until June 3, Overwatch 2 players can purchase the Azure Flame Hanzo Crowdfunding Bundle. 25% of the revenue generated from these bundle sales will be directly added to the event’s prize pool.
The Crowdfunding Model
This model mirrors the approach used in the 2023 Overwatch World Cup. For that event, 25% of Blizzard’s revenue from the sale of Overwatch World Cup cosmetics and bundles constituted the entire prize pool. The final prize pool amount for the World Cup was $513,162, as reported by the official Overwatch Path to Pro account on X (formerly Twitter).
Comparison to Other Esports
While crowdfunding is a common practice in esports, it’s unusual for an event’s entire prize pool to be crowdfunded without any contribution from the developer.
Major tournaments in games like Counter-Strike, Dota 2, and VALORANT typically feature significant prize pools provided by the developers, supplemented by crowdfunding initiatives to boost the total rewards for competing teams.
Given Blizzard’s extensive investment in the Overwatch League, it isn’t entirely surprising that the company might hesitate to fund Overwatch esports heavily in this new era. This prize pool funding strategy could also serve as a means for Blizzard to gauge the dedication and interest of Overwatch esports fans quickly.
Viewing Rewards
In addition to purchasing the Dallas bundle, Overwatch 2 players can earn up to 12 different cosmetics by watching up to 12 hours of the OWCS Dallas Major on Twitch or YouTube. These rewards include “home and away” OWCS Ashe skins.
Key Features of the Update
- Azure Flame Hanzo Crowdfunding Bundle: Special bundle available for purchase, with 25% of sales contributing to the tournament prize pool.
- Crowdfunding Impact: Entire prize pool dependent on bundle sales, echoing the approach used in the 2023 Overwatch World Cup.
- Viewer Rewards: Earn up to 12 cosmetics by watching the OWCS Dallas Major, including exclusive OWCS Ashe skins.
guessing how to get the owcs Dallas skin
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Conclusion
The innovative crowdfunding approach for the OWCS Dallas Major not only determines the prize pool but also actively involves the player community in supporting the event. By purchasing the Azure Flame Hanzo bundle or simply tuning in to watch the tournament, fans can contribute to the success and excitement of this landmark event in Overwatch 2 esports.
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