The first day of the Midseason Madness was a resurgence of the South Korean Overwatch LAN esports. Though it was a weekday there was still a good turnout for the first day of matches. Here is a breakdown of what it was like at the Kintex Arena for the Midseason Madness
The Kintex center was arranged so that the fans could have multiple experiences. Outside the actual area was a photo opt area where fans could stand in front of a banner that had the logo and teams on it. The contenders teams weren’t left out! There were two boards set up where fans could leave messages of encouragement for players and teams. One of the biggest attractions was the photo booths where fans could take photos that had custom frames. There was a line for the east and west.
While inside the arena there were locations where fans could make signs and the classic boomsticks of the league. Another photo opt with Tracer was available to fans as well. After the matches, there were also fan meet and greets with the players. For the first day, it was the North American teams. Right outside the arena tables were set up for the players to sit and sign for fans.
As well as the production-created experience, fans came out as well to provide for their fellow fans. There were many fan-created banners and tokens that fans could collect. This also brought a fun and light atmosphere to the arena.
While the arena was set up very close to the Korean Contenders’ finals of the past, the chairs were just plastic chairs lined up in rows, but it was very orderly to find the seats. There was plenty of staff around to help fans find their correct seat and guide them to the appropriate location. The front of the arena where the R and S seats are were filled with fans.
With the three big screens, it was easy to see the match no matter the location. The audio was also strong. There were staff with cameras to help film signs as well as a flying drone that got great overhead shots of the crowd. The production within and out of the game made it an enjoyable experience for those at the LAN.
It was obvious that T. O. P by Maxim was a new sponsor as they were advertised between each break, featured in the post-match interviews, and had a table set up with product. It was really creative in how they decided to advertise with the players and host taking a drink as many fans took pictures of that moment to post on SNS.
It was nice that at the beginning, production brought out all the teams to introduce them, before jumping into the matches. Unfortunately, there were no fun walk-out skits that some teams are known for. The iconic pre-match cheers were also present. Both sides in each match were fairly represented, though Houston Outlaws , Atlanta Reign and the Seoul Infernal were the loudest.
There were a couple of issues that popped up, such as the middle screen panel going out. But for the most part, the first day was a success! No doubt the team will use the first day to make a few adjustments so that Saturday and Sunday will go just as smoothly.
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