Blizzard has officially announced the end of the Overwatch League, beginning the process of “reimagining Overwatch’s competitive format and finding a new direction.”
In July, Activision Blizzard notified investors that following the results of this year’s season, OWL teams would vote on updated terms of cooperation with Blizzard. In case of disagreement, they will receive compensation for termination of the contract in the amount of $6 million each. Then, in early October, the company announced its intention to “reinvigorate the esports program,” hinting at a lack of agreement and foreshadowing unfavorable changes for the league.
In a statement for GGRecon An Activision Blizzard spokesperson confirmed the final decision:
We’re moving away from the Overwatch League format and looking for a new direction to take the Overwatch competitive scene forward. We are grateful to everyone who participated in OWL and remain committed to our vision of revitalizing the esports program. We look forward to sharing more details with you in the near future.
Earlier this week, reports surfaced that the Toronto Defiant had announced their departure from the Overwatch League, and shortly after that, The Esports Advocate reported that the majority of teams had indeed voted to leave the OWL.
The Overwatch League was created in 2016, but it has faced significant challenges: high start-up costs, the COVID-19 pandemic, and allegations of sexual harassment at Activision Blizzard, which led to the loss of support from major sponsors.
