
In a groundbreaking announcement set for Nov. 28, Riot Games is set to reveal the extensive renovation of its Berlin-based LEC Studio, rebranding it as the newly minted Riot Games Arena. This state-of-the-art facility is poised to become the focal point for all Riot Games esports activities in the EMEA region, accommodating existing competitions and unveiling undisclosed events in the near future.
The revamped venue will serve as the primary location for major tournaments such as Riot’s VALORANT Champions’ Tour EMEA and the League of Legends EMEA Championship (LEC). Additionally, it will host a spectrum of Riot-owned events, including VALORANT’s Ascension and Game Changers, League’s EMEA Masters, and Teamfight Tactics competitions, whether catering to an online audience or a live in-person crowd.
We're changing things in 2024… pic.twitter.com/24mtIlHJ7l
— VALORANT Champions Tour EMEA (@valesports_emea) November 28, 2023
In the midst of sweeping changes in the global League of Legends esports landscape, with the LCS downsizing and the LJL merging with the PCS, Alberto Guerrero, Riot’s Head of Esports for EMEA, emphasizes the company’s enduring commitment to the region’s competitive ecosystem. Guerrero, commenting on the overhauled space, envisions this new “world-leading esports facility” as the “beating heart” of all esports-related operations in the region.
The transformed workspace, now Riot Games Arena, boasts enhancements promising an unparalleled experience for attending fans, coupled with significant upgrades in broadcasting and production capabilities.
A key highlight is its adaptability, enabling seamless transitions between different Riot IPs through a fusion of digital technology and physical infrastructure. This feature grants the venue the capability to host two esports events simultaneously. The partnership with Riot’s remote broadcast center in Dublin plays a pivotal role, likely overseeing all remote events, while the Berlin Arena crew manages on-site live events.
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The “innovative infrastructural design” in Riot Games Arena includes an adaptable stage and desk studio with modular scenery, facilitating efficient changeovers between brands and leagues. Notably, on-stage players’ desks can be configured to either face each other or the crowd, tailoring to the specific setups of VALORANT and League.
Sarah Joynt Borger, Head of Media House for Riot EMEA, reinforces Riot’s commitment to delivering the best experience for players and fans. Borger underscores the fan-centric approach in renovating the Riot Games Arena in Berlin.
For live audiences, the venue will feature amphitheater-style seating, new cinema seats, and a dedicated player tunnel, enhancing the proximity of fans to on-site action. The reimagined stage and desk area facilitate efficient changes in design and layout, aligning with the Riot Games Esports IP featured each day.
The addition of two dedicated co-streaming booths in Riot Games Arena underscores Riot’s acknowledgment of the growing significance of co-streaming in the success of the EMEA esports ecosystem. This approach aims to elevate content created by official co-streaming partners, providing fans with a more engaging and personalized experience.
The 2024 esports season for all of Riot’s titles in the EMEA region will kick off at Riot Games Arena, welcoming fans for the start of the LEC Winter Split in January. Further details about the renewed studio are anticipated to be unveiled at the beginning of the upcoming year.