Navigating Sustainability: Addressing Esports Winter Challenges

Esports, emerging as both a new avenue for career opportunities in sports and a medium of entertainment, have captured increasing attention globally over the last few decades. Despite their growing popularity, esports face a significant challenge related to sustainability, referred to as “Esports winter.” This period of uncertainty questions the long-term viability of diverse esports genres and titles, suggesting a need for in-depth research. Understanding the underlying issues contributing to this phenomenon and exploring opportunities for growth and stabilization are critical.

This Research Topic aims to compile a comprehensive collection of studies and papers that address the various sustainability challenges confronting the esports ecosystem. The focus is on identifying the diverse sources of these challenges, the obstacles that hinder progress, and proposing innovative strategies for resolving these issues. Through such insights, there’s an opportunity to enhance our understanding of the esports field and how it can evolve to maintain its trajectory of growth and relevance.

To enhance our understanding of how to navigate and possibly end the esports winter, this call for papers is open to a range of interdisciplinary research that examines:
o Innovative esports business models
o Engagement and retention strategies for audiences
o Enhancements to the resilience and motivation of e-athletes
o Effective management and marketing approaches
o Analyzing the sociopolitical, educational, and psychological dimensions of esports
o The influence of media, historical events, and cultural dynamics on esports
This comprehensive exploration aims to foster a more sustainable esports ecosystem, addressing the current challenges and paving the way for future opportunities.