1st Intel Extreme Masters in Australia Draws 8 Million Viewers

Intel® Extreme Masters (IEM), the longest-running global pro gaming circuit, kicked off Season 12 on May 6-7 in Sydney, Australia – marking the first-ever IEM event on the Australian continent. More than 7,000 fans attended the live event each day and 8 million unique viewers tuned into the online broadcast, which was delivered in 22 different languages. Fans watched the world’s best teams in “Counter Strike: Global Offensive” (“CS:GO”) take the stage to compete for a total prize pool of $200,000 (USD). Brazilian team SK Gaming prevailed after a series of contentious matches, taking home the trophy and the inaugural IEM Sydney champion title.

IEM Sydney was the third consecutive IEM event broadcast in virtual reality (VR), and more than 150,000 unique viewers watched live via SLIVER.tv. Through SLIVER.tv’s virtual esports stadium experience, Intel and ESL brought fans closer to competition with a fully immersive 360-degree VR experience. IEM Sydney also hosted Intel’s Virtual Reality Showcase, where Intel has been furthering the market for competitive VR gaming with VR esports tournaments among attendees with “Project Cars” and “The Unspoken,” in addition to other VR experiences.