Microsoft acquires the esports tournament platform Smash.gg



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Online video game events platform Smash.gg has announced that it has entered into an acquisition agreement with Microsoft. The company, rooted in tools for hosting and supporting esports events, is said to be looking to join Redmond for an undisclosed fee, further strengthening its presence in games alongside the Xbox brand. Smash.gg announced the deal through its official website. We reached out to Microsoft for confirmation, although it did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Based in San Francisco, Smash.gg began operations in 2015 as a platform for esports events around Nintendo. Super Smash Bros. fighting series. His services have since expanded into other capacities, although his name and presence remains closely tied to the fighting genre. Its suite of tools offers support to local and professional organizers, handling management, payments and analytics through an all-inclusive platform.

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“Since we started in 2015, our goal has been to create active esports scenes around the games people love to play,” Smash.gg said in a statement. “Today, we’re excited to take the next step on this journey by joining Microsoft to help us strengthen our existing relationships and explore new opportunities. Smash.gg will continue to be a self-service esports platform available to tournament organizers from all gaming communities. If you have any questions about existing tournaments, please contact [email protected]. “

Microsoft also confirmed the news through its MSN Esports Twitter Account, saying it brings “even more support and opportunities” to the organization.

It might seem like an unexpected acquisition for Microsoft, with Smash.gg more well-known among Super Smash Bros. communities, even down to its brand identity. But with steady expansion over half a decade, the acquisition signals further diversification of its services, emphasizing availability in “all gaming communities”. And Microsoft has the wallet to bring smash.gg to new audiences, whether it’s the Xbox platform, its MSN eSports franchise, or even backend development tools like Playfab.

Microsoft generally has a positive image in the gaming scene, with its Xbox platform a crucial division in its gaming efforts. But this also comes with resentment in some gaming communities, following its decision to shut down its gaming. Mixer live streaming platform earlier in 2020.

But for smash.gg, it’s a natural progression, with the company previously suggesting that the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has had an impact on its results. He said “many conversations” were underway to keep growth amid rumors of shutdowns, including “discussions about acquiring or combining with services.” It looks like Microsoft was that perfect partner, having the potential to save the platform and put it in the spotlight alongside its larger game portfolio.



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