Team Liquid, a prominent North American esports organization, has announced a collaboration with Illuvium, a web3 gaming studio, to introduce Illuvium: Arena, its latest auto battler game. Nine renowned Team Liquid streamers, including Drew ‘Midbeast’ Timbs and Mads ‘Broxah’ Brock-Pedersen, will lead the presentation of Illuvium: Arena's Player versus Player (PvP) mode. This partnership signifies Team Liquid's venture into the web3 gaming sphere, emphasizing a continued commitment to quality and innovation within the esports industry.

In early access following a three-year development phase, Illuvium: Arena challenges preconceptions about web3 games by focusing on production quality and engaging gameplay. Illuvium, a well-known web3 studio, seamlessly blends open-world exploration, city building, and auto battler genres on the Ethereum blockchain. Illuvium was founded in 2020 by three brothers - Kieran, Aaron, and Grant Warwick. Aspiring to position Illuvium: Arena as a contender against established mainstreaam gaming franchises, Illuvium offers a unique blend of genres within the web3 gaming landscape.

Team Liquid, which raised $35 million in funding last year at a $415 million valuation, will be working with Illuvium to develop the game’s esports scene and tournaments in 2024 by co-hosting an esports tournament with a $100,000 prize pool. Team Liquid's streamers are set to showcase Illuvium: Arena gameplay starting November 30th, coinciding with the game's accessibility for download. This marks a significant moment for both entities as they explore the synergy between the established esports realm and the emerging landscape of web3 gaming. Fans of Team Liquid can acquire limited-edition digital collectibles and 'Illuvitars' from December 12th, offering in-game benefits and real-world trading value. Victor Goossens, Founder and Co-CEO of Team Liquid, has expressed satisfaction with Illuvium: Arena, highlighting its attention to detail and commitment to a competitive mode.

We’ve been very impressed with the quality of Illuvium: Arena so far. Aside from the attention to detail that they’ve given to building their game world, their commitment to its competitive mode makes us confident that this will be a game that rewards skill and strategy. This is a unique project where both sides benefit from the other’s expertise, and we’re excited to start testing all that the game has to offer.

Victor Goossens, Founder and Co-CEO of Team Liquid.

This collaboration aligns with broader industry trends, with organizations like Gen.G also venturing into partnerships with game studios to explore the web3 gaming space. As the esports landscape continues to evolve, alliances between established organizations like Team Liquid and innovative web3 game developers illustrate a commitment to pioneering new avenues for competitive gaming and entertainment, marking a significant step in reshaping the gaming experience.