Canada:

Ready Player 1: Examining The World Of Esports

The esports world is quickly gaining popularity as more sports
and gaming enthusiasts turn to online gaming during a time of
social distancing.

Esports are video games played by multiple participants in a
highly-organized competitive environment using an online platform.
The primary aspects of the game are facilitated by electronic
systems and broadcast to an engaged online audience.

Despite the widespread socioeconomic disruptions caused by
COVID-19, the online gaming industry is burgeoning. Esports offers
an engaging alternative for a market of highly engaged consumers
seeking leisure activity and stimulation during a time where social
distancing and limited social interactions are the norm.

As the esports space becomes more mainstream and grows more
complex, there are unique concerns from a legal standpoint. While
the growth brings opportunities, it is prudent for industry
participants to examine these legal considerations:

• Travel/immigration




• Gaming/gambling regulations




• Team, league, and event organization issues (competition
  organization and talent acquisition and management)




• Contract considerations and issues




• Intellectual property ownership, licensing and
  broadcasting




• Real property issues for design and development of esports
  arenas and venues

We are launching an esports blog series which will highlight key
legal and business issues that stakeholders in the esports
ecosystem should consider as they navigate the growth of the
industry. This area is evolving rapidly and we will continue to add
topics as legal considerations change.

The content of this article is intended to provide a general
guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought
about your specific circumstances.

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