What is an "eSport"?
A brief introduction to eSports followed by a deep dive into the complex yet important relationship between U.S. legal definitions of sport and the current eSports market in North America. (Image via Riot Games).
North American League of Legends and the Risks of Unchecked Developers in eSports.
This project seeks to showcase the issues that professional eSports players face, focusing on the professional North American League of Legends scene as a case study. The struggles players face in terms of unionization, employee classification, asymmetrical market information, unjust competitive rulings, and related topics will be emphasized. Each portal below either provides background for analysis, rationale for research, or a window into certain aspects of labor rights in eSports. Although it can generally be read in any order, reading top-to-bottom, left-to-right ensures that you have adequate context and background for the analysis. If you feel uncomfortable or unfamiliar with any terminology used in this project, refer to the Glossary tab featured on the Explore menu in the top right corner. Additionally, this project features two historical timelines (which will be referenced in each portal) hosted in the Timelines tab on the Explore menu. One analyzes and identifies issues with Riot's competitive rulings in the North American region and the other provides a brief overview of labor rights-related events in LCS history such as wrist injuries and the creation of Riot's new player's association (NALCSPA).
Why is "LOL" an eSport?
A description of the eSport League of Legends (frequently referred to as LoL) and why it functions as an accurate representation of eSports. (Image via Riot Games).
Why LoL and Riot Games?
Explaining the rationale behind choosing League of Legends and Riot Games as a case study, focusing on recent labor issues pertaining to Riot Games and the eSports industry from a "big-picture" perspective. (Image via Kotaku).
Executive Ownership & Bargaining Power
Highlighting issues with current LCS policies on competitive rulings and the problem with asymmetrical market information in the LCS. (Image via Chris Yunker / Riot Games).
Working Conditions & Burnout Culture
An overview of the current work culture in LoL eSports and the effect of a constantly evolving game on job security and player burnout. (Image via Riot Games).
Collective Bargaining & Unionization
Analyzing the benefits of collective bargaining as well as the barriers players face to developing an NLRA-recognized union. (Image via Riot Games).
Policy Recommendations
A list of potential policies and agreements that would (hopefully) improve the financial and personal well-being of all parties within the LCS. (Image via Riot Games).
Future Research & Caveats
The limitations of this project as well as the identification of the key areas of eSports that require further examination. (Image via Riot Games).
Disclaimer
All copyright ownership information for any of the media used in this project. (Image via Riot Games).