Rakuten is entering the esports industry and will host a variety of esports events in collaboration with a number of well-established games. The Rakuten esports cup is the first of these competitions and will feature APEX LEGENDSTM, a world-renowned game with a globally competitive esports base. 20 teams comprised of a grand total of 60 top-tier streamers*, YouTubers and VTubers will compete in the event. Kosuke Hiraiwa, a prominent esports commentator, will serve as the official commentator for the Rakuten esports cup, while match analysis will be provided by the popular streamer ‘alelu’. Popular internet personality and TV star Ano will also make a guest appearance at the event.
The livestreamed competition is viewable free of charge on both the official event website and YouTube channel, and a special giveaway campaign will be held via the official Rakuten esports cup Twitter account (@rakutenesports). Additionally, DiamondDining Co., Ltd., a consolidated subsidiary of competition sponsor DD Holdings Co., Ltd., will host a fan event with participating players during the tournament. See the official Twitter account for further details.
Rakuten offers a variety of services that leverage the power and appeal of a diversity of content, such as Rakuten TV, Rakuten Ticket and Rakuten NFT. Going forward, Rakuten will utilize the professional expertise and networks gained from these businesses to consider broadcasting event footage, selling tickets and selling merchandise for future Rakuten esports cup competitions. Rakuten’s new esports business will aim to collaborate with a variety of Rakuten services, as it seeks opportunities to leverage the strengths of the Rakuten Ecosystem, an integrated network of more than 70 services based on a membership of more than 100 million members in Japan alone.
Rakuten aims to deliver new and exciting entertainment experiences through the Rakuten esports cup.