Blizzard opening dedicated esports arena in Los Angeles

Abilty to Hearth to location not yet confirmed

Blizzard Entertainment have announced ambitious plans to open its own dedicated space for arena gaming this Fall. The so-named Blizzard Arena Los Angeles will open October 7th to coincide with the Overwatch season one playoffs.

In a press release, Blizzard CEO Mike Morhaime spoke with pride of the new venture: “We’re at a tipping point for esports and we look forward to helping usher in a new era of competition-based entertainment…We’re honored to bring the best in esports to the same stage that some of the biggest names in entertainment have called home.”

There are even plans to open a small store nearby, selling rotational merchandise dependent on whatever tournament is currently underway. That’s some big bucks, brother.

Though the new arena, located at Burbank, California, is expected to be the home for the most prestigious competitive events within Overwatch, Hearthstone, Starcraft II, World of Warcraft Arena and Heroes of the Storm. Blizzard will continue to include high-ranking matches as part of their Blizzcon events, traditionally held in Anaheim.