It could be a major spark for a new firestorm of entertainment in Las Vegas: The first dedicated esports arena on the Strip—Esports Arena Las Vegas—is set to open March 22 at Luxor.
Allied Esports made the announcement last week during a CES media event and party in collaboration with MGM Resorts International inside an under-construction space that formerly housed LAX Nightclub. The flagship location of Allied’s growing global network of esports properties was announced last year, followed by the December news that chef José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup has joined the project to develop the first esports-inspired food and beverage program.
The multi-level arena will feature a competition stage, an LED video wall, telescopic seating, daily gaming stations, state-of-the-art streaming and television-quality production studios, all coming together to create the definitive championship destination for the fast-growing industry.
“We recognized a while ago how esports has been growing and its great trajectory throughout the world,” said Steve Zanella, president of core properties in Las Vegas for MGM Resorts. “It’s great to see the acceptance and recognition it’s getting, and MGM Resorts is dedicated to taking esports throughout our entire organization, not only here in Las Vegas with Allied Esports but throughout the U.S. and the world.”
Allied also unveiled its second mobile esports venue, Esports Arena Drive, an 80-foot, 18-wheel, 35-ton semi-trailer that—not unlike a vehicle you’d find in a video game—unfolds with the push of a button to reveal a competition stage with full production facilities and VIP rooftop lounge. Drive will visit the Daytona 500 in February for a massive tournament and fan experience at one of the largest spectator events in the country. Don’t be surprised to see it return to Las Vegas in the spring for the big grand opening.
