(Esports news) The Tokyo Olympics has been a resounding success, despite being the most unique Olympic Games in history. Not just because of no spectators in the stadium, stringent rules, masked officials but also for the inclusion of many sports that would have been unimaginable a decade ago such as skateboarding, surfing and sport climbing. It’s clear as day that the International Olympic Committee is looking to make this legendary sporting competition more appealing to the youth, and the inclusion of a few new sports is just the first step in reducing the age of the Olympics’ audience.

The success of three new sports at the Tokyo Olympics is a promising step in uncharted territory for the IOC, and it’s positive reception will undoubtedly give them the confidence to pursue other non-traditional sports, especially one that’s played in the virtual world. Esports has been more popular now than ever before, and regularly attracts millions of viewers from across the globe, a perfect impetus that the Olympic Games needs. According to a report by games and esports data company Newzoo, it is estimated that broadcast revenue can surpass over a billion dollars in 2021 and its growth has no ceiling. Why would the International Olympic Committee not want to capitalize on this lucrative opportunity?

It’s already clear that the IOC is warming up to the idea of having esports in the Olympic Games with the inaugural Olympic Virtual Series being held before the Tokyo Olympics where participants competed in five sport simulation competitions — cycling, sailing, auto racing, rowing and baseball. As time goes by, esports as an industry will undoubtedly get more and more difficult to ignore as gaming will continue to become an integral part of the upcoming generations’ childhoods. If the Olympic Games is serious about remaining relevant with the times we live in, the inclusion of esports is not a luxury, it’s a necessity.

For those who wonder why gaming is now considered a sport, some of the most popular esports titles in the world are games of skill, strategy, talent, physical and mental fitness just like any other sport there is. Esports in a professional setting is far beyond a recreational hobby and it can take decades for aspiring esports players to make it professional. The inclusion of esports might have it’s fair share of complications with the Olympic Games’ values, as many of them feature violent content and the titles are owned by third parties, but if the biggest sporting event in the world wishes to remain relevant for the foreseeable future, the path ahead is fairly straightforward.

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