International Broadcasting Convention (IBC), a media industry trade show taking place September 15th-18th in Amsterdam, has announced several esports-focused activations during this year’s event, including a partnership with gaming and esports agency Unlocked.
Unlocked will create an esports and gaming zone on the showroom floor that will serve to demonstrate the full appeal of the esports industry by showing the latest developments in the field of esports production and competition.
IBC is a major trade shows for the broadcast and media industry which takes place yearly in Amsterdam. The event is operated by six media-related institutions and non-profits and has existed for more than 50 years. IBC is notable for showcasing new technologies and developments in the industry both at the showroom floor and through panels and talks.
This is not the first time that IBC is exploring esports. The 2019 edition of the event had a full-fledged esports tournament take place, and esports is now back for 2023.
Unlocked’s esports zone will include several areas focused on different aspects of the esports industry. The main area will consist of a production showcase in three different scales, ranging from home streaming setups to small venues to stadium productions.
Racing simulators will also be featured in the space, and drivers will compete throughout the length of the event. In addition, a networking and partner zone will also be established.
In addition to the gaming space, IBC2023’s esports showcase will also feature a gaming content programme on September 18th, during which esports and gaming experts will host talks and presentations on gaming-related topics. The topics will range from in-game advertising to game engines and gaming trends.
Steven Leuvens, Co-Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Unlocked, commented: “It’s great to see IBC recognising the growing importance of esports and finding a way to enable people from all parts of the media industry to connect with the gaming organisations while becoming immersed in an onsite esports event. We are excited to be part of IBC2023.”
