ABSTRACT
This chapter examines how esports has proliferated the entertainment and sports sectors, becoming a cornerstone of the digital environment. As a complex industry this introductory chapter will unpack the fundamental characteristics of the industry by outlining the multiple genres and formats that esports can take. Focus will also be placed on outlining the key stakeholders who contribute to and sustain the unique and dynamic composition of the burgeoning esports industry. The digital space in which esports resides has led to new forms of consumption, where the boundaries between content consumption and creation are blurred. Also given the popularity of esports globally, across many titles and platforms, what are the realities of engagement given esports cultural relevance. The evolving nature of sport, media, and entertainment means that esports is positioned at an intersect of these domains and this chapter concludes by outlining how esports could be conceptualised as a ‘digital mediator’.
