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Software developer Virtex has announced a partnership with Skybox, spectating and analytics platform. This will see the highly-popular competitive gaming title CS:GO, and the successor CS2 brought to the Virtex Stadium platform. It is the first ever virtual esports venue.
Skybox, a spectating and analysis tool for competitive games, will deliver real-time data as well as 3D recreations to Virtex Stadium. This will enable Counter-Strike gameplay from all angles. For the past year, they have worked with Virtex to integrate Counter-Strike maps into stadium. They also ensure that key modes and tools like map control and gameplay feature function smoothly. This will allow for a unique immersive 3D viewing experience.
Virtex Stadium’s lobby is currently available in closed beta via desktop and compatible VR headsets. This will allow fans to immediately experience the 3D viewing experience. They will soon be able broadcast Counter-Strike matches directly to the Virtex stadium and enjoy every moment in its full glory. Each gamer has the power to decide whether they want to watch each round from their seat in the stadium, or dive into the map to get up close and personal for every opening duel and site retake.
The unique 3D experience of viewing gameplay from the center of the stadium is a first in the world and forms the basis of Virtex’s desire to be home to some of the most memorable and unique gaming events. The stadium receives the same live stream, so everyone can enjoy the same amazing moments.
Fans can enter the lobby once they are ready and then move into the main hall and lounge bar. These spaces offer a relaxed environment for fans to meet with friends or share some of the fun games and interactions that are hidden there. Virtex Stadium removes local restrictions so fans can watch live events with their friends and family from anywhere in the world.
“We are delighted to bring Counter Strike to Virtex Stadium, giving more people the chance to experience top-level gaming in a way never seen before. CS:GO was the third most-watched esport last season. We are excited to partner with Skybox to bring a 360deg spectating experience to all our fans. Tim Mcguinness, co-founder of Virtex, said that he is a passionate esports fan and can’t wait for more tournaments to be announced in the stadium.
After meeting at a VR League Finals in 2019, where they realized they had a common vision, co-founders Tim Mcguinness & Christoph Ortlepp created Virtex Stadium. Tim Mcguinness, a former Team Gravity Echo VR player was casting. He shared a prototype of Virtex Stadium and immediately convinced Christoph Ortlepp, entrepreneur. This led to Virtex’s founding in 2020.
“I met the Virtex Team in 2021. From the first conversation it became clear that we had the same passion for improving the gaming experience through digital innovation. Virtex was focused on recreating the real stadium experience in a virtual environment. We believed this to be a great point of contact for our real-time technology. span
“The Virtex team has done an amazing job in building the Virtex stadium over the past year. We are proud to announce that Counter-Strike fans will soon be able to experience it live via the Skybox & Virtex partnership. This is a very exciting time for both companies. We look forward to expanding our partnership with new game titles and experiences,” said Ethan Cooper CEO of Skybox Technologies.
Counter-Strike is now the second esports game to be featured on the platform. This follows Echo VR’s integration into the Virtex Stadium last years. It demonstrates Virtex’s intent to bring more quality entertainment to Virtex Stadium, and provide an experience that will blow fans away. The partnership with Skybox is only the beginning. In the months ahead, more announcements will be made about Counter-Strike tournaments as well as esports titles joining Virtex Stadium.
More information on Virtex and Virtex Stadium can be found at www.virtexstadium.com
