Product Manager | Driving Esports Growth in APAC EM | Led PCS & VCS to Record-Breaking Viewership & Innovative Multi-Regional Play
For a 13 year old esports like LoL Esports, innovation can be hard to get right or come by - yet it’s crucial to keep trying new things for the longevity of the sport. This year, two APAC regional leagues, PCS and VCS introduced skill-based side selection methodology in the form of 1v1. 1v1 Side Selection Showdown (1v1 SSS) - inspired and similar to the concept of jump ball in basketball - is a whole new way for teams to earn the right to select side for the actual 5v5 game. Side selection was traditionally either predetermined or decided via a coin toss. 1v1 SSS not only allow us to shine the spotlight on mechanically gifted individuals in the league, it turns out to be one of the most entertaining addition to the sport this year. We have seen hilarious scene of LCK 2021 Player of the Split, Gori desperately escaping the ring of fire and failed, but also high octane duels between great players. I’m leaving this video from last night at the end of this post for your enjoyment, the ending was great. Context: BYG Driver and rookie FAK 1Jiang were undefeated in 1v1 and they are vying for the 1v1 King title.
