Historic Jim Whelan Boardwalk Hall will get a modern makeover as one of its theaters transforms into a high-tech arena for an esports tournament next month. The city will host the Collegiate Starleague’s 2019 North American Collegiate Grand Finals from April 26 to 28 as part of its ongoing push to become a hub for esports.
Leaders in the rapidly growing industry say there is a need for companies to provide aspiring esports players with some structure as they continue their play through various levels.
The tournament marks Atlantic City’s first attempt to introduce that framework. “Right now, the amateur scene is an underserved scene. They just need more events and more ability to play in front of crowds and have infrastructure, and a lot of that infrastructure doesn’t exist,” said Joe Marsh, chief business officer of Spectacor Gaming and the Philadelphia Fusion.