Reading Time: 4 minutes

 

• Marking its debut in the American esports scene, Team Vitality has unveiled its Teamfight Tactics (TFT) dream team, further expanding its presence in the competitive gaming landscape.
• The core team features renowned players and Twitch streamers; Kevin ‘setsuko’ Jiang, Michael ‘k3soju’ Zhang, Jeffrey ‘Milk’ Pan, Kevin ‘Prestivent’ Zou and Esports World Cup stand-in Libo “torontotokyo” Chang each with unique skills and dedicated fan bases.
• This move highlights Team Vitality’s ongoing commitment to international growth, extending its reach to the passionate American audience whilst giving its global fanbase more teams to cheer for.

Team Vitality, the leading esports organisation, is thrilled to announce the arrival of its newest powerhouse dream team in TeamFight Tactics (TFT). This exciting move marks Team Vitality’s debut in the American esports scene and welcomes TFT as the thirteenth title to join the French club as part of its global expansion. Strengthening its position as a global leader in esports, this strategic advancement into the American market reflects Team Vitality’s commitment to continual growth and innovation.

TEAM VITALITY SETS SIGHTS ON NEW HORIZONS TO CONQUER

The dream team is composed of players with a proven track record of success, each bringing their unique skills and strategic expertise to the team. The players announced joining Team Vitality on their respective Twitch.tv channels with a live contract signing. Afterwards, the roster celebrated by engaging with their legions of fans as they immersed themselves in French culture to mark their new team, testing their linguistic skills by learning French words and phrases.

The TFT dream team is composed of:

• Kevin ‘setsuko’ Jiang – America: Setsuko is a rising star in the Teamfight Tactics (TFT) scene, earning the nickname “Lightning” for his aggressive, fast-paced playstyle that leaves opponents scrambling to react, Setsuko possesses an impressive combination of lightning-quick reflexes and strategic thinking. This unique talent has propelled him to the top of the rankings and have earned him numerous achievements, including first place in the 2023 Runeterra Reforged: NA Noxus Cup, the 2023 Runeterra Reforged: NA Shurima Cup, and the 2023 Monsters Attack: Corrupted Cup. Setsuko also boasts a substantial Twitch following of 166K followers, further establishing his presence as a renowned streamer.
• Michael ‘k3soju’ Zhang – America: k3soju is a veteran of the esports scene, having competed in titles like League of Legends, Dota Auto Chess, and Fortnite. However, it’s in Teamfight Tactics (TFT) where he truly found his calling, becoming a prominent streamer and top competitor. His consistently high rankings in the NA Power Rankings, particularly during the launch of each new set, caught the attention of leading esports organisations. His impressive track record includes first place in the 2022 International Double Up Invitational and second place in the 2022 Dragonlands: North America Regional Finals. k3soju’s first World Championship appearance in 2023 solidified his place as North America’s most popular TFT streamer. With an incredible Twitch following of 583K, he has become a significant figure in the streaming community.
• Jeffrey ‘Milk’ Pan – America: Jeffrey, also known as DeliciousMilkGG, Milk Guy, or simply Milk, is a formidable presence in the Teamfight Tactics (TFT) scene. Renowned for his mastery of high-cost units and powerful synergies, Milk excels at crafting potent endgame compositions. This exceptional ability has made him a consistent top 4 finisher, securing victories over his peers who struggle to match his late-game dominance. His impressive track record includes first place in the 2023 DSG Trials: TFT, the 2022 Gizmos & Gadgets: NA Regional Finals, and the 2022 International Double Up Invitational. Milk has even achieved the remarkable feat of holding the number one and two spots simultaneously in multiple sets. With a significant Twitch following of 162K, he continues to be a major figure in the TFT community.
• Libo “torontotokyo” Chang – America: Standing in for Prestivent at the Esports World Cup is torontotokyo. Torontotokyo is a seasoned competitor in the esports scene. Transitioning from a successful career as a professional StarCraft II player, Chang has made a significant impact on the community. Known for his strategic acumen and adaptability, he has quickly risen through the ranks. His notable achievements include securing Top 10 finish in the 2023 Runeterra Reforged World Championship. With a growing presence in the TFT scene, torontotokyo continues to captivate audiences with his exceptional gameplay and deep understanding of competitive strategy.
• Kevin ‘Prestivent’ Zou – America: As the final member of the core line-up, Prestivent is a rising star and well respected as a top competitor in the Teamfight Tactics (TFT) community, currently ranked amongst the top in Set 11. Known for his strategic prowess and consistent performance, Presitvent’s Twitch following is also growing to 76.5K strong. During the Esports World Cup, Kevin will bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the game, helping to guide his team with the same dedication and insight that marked his competitive career.

Over the summer, the team will participate in several high-level competitions with the goal of dominating upcoming international tournaments. For the Esports World Cup Libo “torontotokyo” Chang will be standing in for Prestivent due to the EWC qualification ranking system, forcing Team Vitality to temporarily recruit an additional player to ensure that the lineup was eligible to play. Prestivent, who humbly sacrificed his place in the EWC line-up will still be a huge part of the team over the summer, as he lends support from the outside.

Team Vitality’s strategic entry into the American esports scene marks another step in its global expansion plan, complementing its established foothold in Europe and Asia. With the recent addition of six teams worldwide, spanning Indonesia, South Korea and more, Team Vitality is poised to amplify its reach by venturing into the American market and strengthening its presence on Twitch.

SHARED GOALS, UNMATCHED POTENTIAL

This all-star line-up shares a common ambition: a burning desire to establish themselves as forces to be reckoned with in the TFT scene. Their objectives are clear: to consistently secure top 4 finishes in major TFT tournaments and captivate audiences.

Team Vitality’s TFT dream team is already dominating the international stage, where they recently won the Esports World Cup: America Closed Qualifiers, eliminating Team Liquid in the first round, and securing their spot to compete this summer at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh. The team is dedicated to cultivating an interactive and engaged community, fostering excitement among both French and international fans.

“Similar to our recent announcements, Team Vitality is continuing its international development by placing particular emphasis on the excellence that characterises our club,” explains Fabien “Neo” Devide, co-founder and President of Team Vitality. “Our expansion this year is not limited to establishing a solid foundation, but making our first step in connecting with our North American audience. By integrating key athletes and personalities, we are strengthening our presence with this significant section of our fanbase.”

 

Reading Time: 3 minutes

 

Diving into game development, Red Bull Levels reawakens to unveil the making of BANDAI NAMCO’s eagerly awaited upcoming DLC in ‘Red Bull Levels presents: ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree’

• The brightest stars from Twitch and YouTube gather in Berlin on June 15th for an exclusive preview of Elden Ring’s first and final expansion
• The event will also be co-streamed by creators from across the world, including top streamers from Twitch and Youtube
• Global leader in gaming monitors, AGON by AOC will return to the Red Bull Gaming universe as the official Monitor Partner
• Watch the live stream on your favourite participating streamer’s channel, the official Red Bull Gaming Twitch channel, or via bnent.eu

Red Bull Levels, the series pulling back the curtain on video game development, is teaming up with BANDAI NAMCO to deliver an exclusive stream unpacking the making of new DLC, Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree. Taking place on June 15th, 2024 at the enchanting Atelier Gardens in Berlin, Germany, ‘Red Bull Levels presents: ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree’ will bring together the brightest stars from Twitch and YouTube for an exclusive first look at the acclaimed video game’s eagerly anticipated expansion.

Following the success of the previous Red Bull Levels Elden Ring event, this year’s spectacle promises even greater excitement as top streamers converge to showcase the upcoming DLC ahead of its release on June 21st. In collaboration with BANDAI NAMCO, creators will delve into the heart of Elden Ring’s mystical world, unveiling how legendary fantasy novelist George R. R. Martin helped to shape the game, and offering viewers an unprecedented glimpse into the untold depths of the Land of Shadow.

The event will be broadcast live across multiple platforms, including the Red Bull Gaming Twitch channel and each participating creator’s individual streaming channel. Kicking off with adrenaline-fueled challenges such as a “Brain and brawn” team boss fight, dance pad play, and quest and achievement runs, the stage is set for an epic lore-filled stream. Viewers will also be treated to exclusive gameplay and commentary as creators explore never-before-seen content from the DLC, and join up with streamers via Twitch and Youtube chats to complete challenges throughout the event.

A diverse lineup of top streamers from around the globe has been confirmed for the event, all set to team up with their viewers and tackle the challenges of the new DLC. To guide viewers through the action-packed event, ‘Red Bull Levels presents: ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree’ has enlisted the expertise of world-renowned esports hosts and commentators, including Keltoum “Giniro” Baddaje, Alex “Otzdarva” and Nico “Dinossindgeil”, who will ensure that every moment of the Elden Ring DLC premiere is unforgettable.

Red Bull Levels is a series that explores video games from the perspective of development teams, sharing behind the scenes stories of how their games move from an idea on the drawing board to landing in the hands of millions. Having previously spoken to the minds behind several AAA and Indie titles, ‘Red Bull Levels presents: ELDEN RING Shadow of the Erdtree’ explores the shattered realms once more, as the team from BANDAI NAMCO take viewers through the development of Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree DLC ahead of its release on 21st June 2024.

Livestream Details:

Date: June 15th, 2024
Time (Europe, CEST): Stream start: 17:00 CEST Show start: 18:00 CEST est. show end: 22:30 CEST
Time (United States, PST): Stream start: 08:00 PST Show start: 09:00 PST est. how end: 13:30 PST
Time (United States, EST): Stream start: 11:00 EST Show start: 12:00 EST est. show end: 16:30 EST

Alongside the main stream via the Red Bull Gaming Twitch channel, the event will also have a number of content creators streaming the event to their audiences. Confirmed players will be announced via Red Bull’s social channels in the run up to the event on June 15th.

UPDATE

Among the notable names confirmed to participate are:

• Divi, Elajjaz, EliasN97,
• HandOfBlood,
• Kurolily,
• Maxim,
• MissMikkaa,
• NoWay4u_Sir,
• Sabaku no Maiku,
• The Happy Hob.

These creators will team up to provide viewers with an exclusive first look at the eagerly awaited Elden Ring DLC ahead of its global release the following week.

The event will feature detailed expert commentary from the previously announced hosts and commentators,

• Keltoum “Giniro” Baddaje,
• Alex “Otzdarva,” and
• Nico “Dinossindgeil”,
• alongside game producer,  Bertrand Mangin from BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Europe.

With the creators co-streaming the event on their own channels, fans can also tune in to watch on the official Red Bull Gaming Twitch channel (https://www.twitch.tv/redbull) or via Bandai Namco’s website (bnent.eu/EldenRingxRedBull).

 

Reading Time: 2 minutes

 

 

Report offers in-depth analysis of European bettors’ wagering intentions and communication preferences, providing valuable insights to help sports betting sites optimize their offerings

Optimove Insights, the analytical and research arm of Optimove, today announced the release of its comprehensive report, “Optimove Insights: Wagering Intentions for Euro 2024.” This report provides an in-depth analysis of European bettors’ wagering intentions and communication preferences, offering valuable insights to guide sports betting sites in optimizing their offerings, enhancing player experiences, and fostering player loyalty while promoting responsible gambling practices. Optimove is the first Customer-Led Marketing Platform and the #1 CRM Marketing Solution used by iGaming operators.

Key Highlights from the Report:

• High Engagement Levels: The report reveals significant engagement among bettors, with 58% placing bets on one or more games weekly and 29% betting several times per week. Additionally, 76% of participants bet at least once a month, indicating consistent interaction with sports betting platforms.
• Diverse Betting Preferences: Over/under bets are the most popular, favored by 46% of respondents, followed by prop bets at 39% and parlays at 35%. Bettors also show varied interest across different game types, with 46% betting on National Cup Games, 48% on national team tournaments or friendlies, 54% on national league season games, and 57% on Champions League or European tournaments.
• Respondents will bet on Euro football whether or not their team is in the hunt. Eighty-four percent (84%) will still bet on games without their national team.
• Future Betting Intentions: Looking ahead, 81% of respondents indicated a strong intention to continue betting, with over/under bets remaining the top choice at 41%, closely followed by moneyline bets at 40% and prop bets at 19%.
• Real-Time Interaction: A notable 83% of bettors engaged in live betting during games, highlighting the opportunity for betting platforms to interact with users in real-time and enhance their overall experience through timely updates and in-game betting options.
• Influence Factors: The top factors influencing betting decisions were player performance (52%), betting promotions (47%), and expert analysis or predictions (47%). This indicates that both intrinsic factors, like player stats, and extrinsic incentives, such as promotions, play crucial roles in decision-making.
• Marketing Fatigue: Marketing fatigue has been a persistent issue for general consumers, it is much less of an issue with Euro 2024 bettors. However, Euro respondents said the number one reason they stop using a site/app is too many or irrelevant marketing messages.

Recommendations for Sports Gaming Sites: The report emphasizes the critical role of a strong data foundation and clean testing frameworks to fully extract the value of AI in marketing. Key strategies include integrating a Customer Data Platform (CDP) with a Multichannel Marketing Hub (MMH), which can significantly enhance the effectiveness of marketing efforts by delivering real-time, relevant, and timely messages to players. Best practices to optimize player marketing include:

• Comprehensive player insights through CDP-MMH integration.
• Automated personalization of game recommendations and bet types.
• Real-time event triggers enhance engagement.
• Consistent cross-channel messaging.
• Segmented targeting based on betting history and preferences.
• Behavior-based automation workflows.
• Personalized promotions and optimal message delivery timing.
• A/B testing and continuous optimization.
• Integration of responsible gambling resources.
• Transparent communication and ease of use across platforms.
• Identification of high-value players and potential addiction risks.

According to Pini Yakuel, CEO of Optimove, “The results of this report provide a clear guide for sportsbook operators to deepen player loyalty and optimize customer lifetime value. Euro 2024 is an incredible opportunity for operators to build even deeper relationships with both current and new players.”