Esports Entertainment has become the first operator to receive approval to take bets on competitive video games in the Garden State.
Indeed, following confirmation from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, Esports Entertainment can begin operations in partnership with Bally’s Corporation's Atlantic City casino as soon as this week.
Beginning Monday, January 24, the company began a five-day “soft play” period, during which limits have been placed on bets. Following this, esports betting is set to launch in full for the first time in the state.
“We couldn’t be more pleased to be the first esports-dedicated operator to be granted the right to commence business in New Jersey. On behalf of our entire team, I would like to thank the Division of Gaming Enforcement for their approval of our platform and the trust they have placed in our Company,” said Grant Johnson, CEO of Esports Entertainment Group.
“Global esports betting is estimated to exceed $205bn by 2027, and we are thrilled to be playing such an important role in this fast-growing market with the launch of our first esports wagering offering in the United States.”
Available via the company’s VIE.gg platform, players will have the opportunity to bet on a number of competitive games, including Call of Duty, Counter Strike: Global Offensive, League of Legends, and Dota 2.
Since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic, esports betting has seen a dramatic rise, with it often replacing live sport at the height of lockdown. Recently, it emerged that for the first time in three years China’s esports betting handle had exceeded that of the United States.
