The world is pretty bleak place right now due to the global pandemic of COVID-19, but video games are here to help make it all a little easier. The virus has millions of people stuck at home as many countries have gone into lockdown, and keeping up with friends, family and loved ones has never been so difficult.
As movies, sports events and television shows face more and more delays, people are turning to the reliable and comforting world of video games during this period of self-isolation and social distancing – and it’s definitely helping.
It’s been reported that game platforms such as Steam have seen record numbers of players logging in, and the likes of streaming sites such as Twitch are no different. The internet is becoming a safe haven for communication, friendship, and to replace everyday social norms. This is where esports come into play.
With IRL sports matches around the globe being cancelled, some sports stars are taking to Twitch to continue playing games like soccer and basketball, albeit virtually. Those isolated in their homes are tuning into tournaments and matches to see what the hype is about, to become involved in a community, and to see some amazing gameplay.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Twitch Rivals has been a platform for thousands to seek solace, companionship and a few laughs. Twitch is also seeing record viewership in these trying times, as people turn to the community platform while in quarantine. Twitch has never been more active, and it’s helping to bridge the gap formed by self-isolation and social distancing.
Hosting not just your typical esports matches, like League of Legends and Fortnite, Twitch Rivals has also been known to think outside of the box, livestreaming games such as the classic card title, Uno.
Right now, the Twitch Rivals team is in partnership with Activision Blizzard to present the world’s first official Call of Duty: Warzone tournament, and though we’re coming to the end of the action, this event has been sorely needed.
Warzone is undeniably one of the greatest games of the year, pulling in more than 30 million players in the first month of its release. The demand for CoD Warzone is high, and throwing some professional gamers, a big pot of cash, and a community where everyone can get involved is absolutely needed right now.
30 teams of three players each have been competing to win the prestigious Warzone tournament. Not only have we already seen some amazing action, but there’s also been a lot of love shared between the gaming community.
In case you missed yesterday’s action, we saw some unbelievable work in the Solos matches, during which points are scored based on kills and placement in a team’s five best games over the four hour time limit.
As it stands, Team DrDisrespect is tying for first place with Team IMMarksman, with each scoring a pretty tidy 211 in total.
The Call of Duty: Warzone tournament may well be underway but there’s still time to get involved!
The tournament will then continue with its second day of streaming on March 26th starting at 16:00 GMT/17:00 CET/9:00am PDT. You can check out all the action from the second event as it unfolds on Twitch.
So grab a snack and get comfy because we’re all in this together!
Watch Twitch Rivals: Warzone Streamer Showdown (Europe) from TwitchRivals on www.twitch.tvPart of a partnership between GameByte and Twitch Rivals.
Featured Image Credit: Activision