The Overwatch League has announced its new exclusive streaming deal with YouTube Gaming today. The deal, which is part of a larger agreement between Activision Blizzard and Google, will make YouTube the exclusive streaming home of not only the OWL but also the newly launched Call of Duty League, along with the developer’s other titles.
“Both the Overwatch League and Call of Duty League are the quintessential examples of world-class esports content,” said Ryan Wyatt, Head of Gaming, YouTube. “As a former Call of Duty esports commentator myself, I couldn’t be more excited for Activision Blizzard to choose YouTube as its exclusive home for the digital live streaming of both leagues. This partnership further demonstrates our dedication to having a world-class live streaming product for gaming.”
The agreement also extends to the backend of the business. Google Cloud will now be the preferred provider for the developer’s hosting infrastructure. The partnership will also include some involvement with Google Cloud’s AI to help tailor offers and in-game experiences to players.
The news comes after months of intense speculation following the expiration of the league’s 2-year, $60 million deal with Twitch. The Amazon-owned streaming service, which has traditionally dominated the esports space, but a lack of growth in the OWL’s viewership may have given them pause heading into a crucial year for the league.
This year the OWL will attempt to fulfill its promise of a global esports league. Teams will travel to Homestands hosted by teams across the globe for the 2020 season. The OWL season kicks off on February 8 with Homestands in New York and Dallas.
Featured image courtesy of the Overwatch League.
You can like The Game Haus on Facebook and follow us on Twitter for more sports and esports articles from other TGH writers along with Bradley.
You can also follow Bradley @shyguyow.
