Gamers in Edmonton are expressing their desire to have a greater say in the city’s esports strategy. Despite efforts by the City of Edmonton to bring more esports events to the region, local gamers claim they haven’t been consulted on the matter. In 2023, a collaborative effort between the city, Explore Edmonton, Edmonton Global, and the Edmonton Screen Industries Office resulted in the development of an esports strategy. The objective of this strategy is to bid for the hosting rights of large, high-profile international events. These events are seen as an opportunity to raise awareness about the opportunities in the tech and AI sectors, especially in Asia where esports have gained immense popularity.
According to estimates from Edmonton Global, the esports industry presents a $9 billion economic opportunity. The economic impact of esports events in the city has already been witnessed during the Alberta Esports Expo held in February 2023. With over 500 participants, this event is estimated to have created more than $1.4 million of economic impact for Edmonton. Additionally, the city will host Game Con Canada, billed as the largest gaming expo in the country, from 2024 through 2026.
However, local gamers and representatives from the Alberta Esports Association believe that the events the city aims to attract are too generic and not dedicated esports tournaments. They argue that the focus should instead be on promoting local grassroots events with the potential to grow. Madison Côté, a representative from the Alberta Esports Association, expressed the need for expanded grants, as the current grants are primarily directed towards the film and television industry. Côté believes that gamers and esports professionals have a keen understanding of what the audience enjoys and find entertaining, emphasizing the importance of involving them in the decision-making process.
City councilors agree with the sentiment that gamers should have a more active role in the growth of the esports industry in Edmonton. They have tasked the administration with connecting with the gaming community to brainstorm ideas on how to make the esports strategy successful. Mayor Amarjeet Sohi recognizes the potential of esports and urges engagement with young people, who are at the forefront of the esports movement.
As the esports industry continues to thrive and gather momentum, the involvement and input of gamers are becoming increasingly important. By giving gamers a voice in shaping the strategy and focusing on promoting local, grassroots events, Edmonton has the potential to become a significant player in the esports scene. With the cooperation of all stakeholders, the city can tap into the economic opportunities and showcase its prowess in the tech and AI sectors alongside the excitement and entertainment that esports offer.
