In an effort to further expand its gaming reach, the NFL has partnered with leading mobile game platform Skillz, to crowdsource a mobile esport game.
As part of the multi-year agreement, the two organizations will host a worldwide game developer challenge. Competing developers will get the chance to create an NFL-themed mobile game.
The developer challenge will start up in the second quarter of 2021 and all genres will be welcome outside of 11 on 11 simulation gameplay, due to EA’s exclusive rights agreement with the NFL.
The selected game will utilize the Skillz esports platform and receive joint marketing support from both the NFL and Skillz.
Big news – we're teaming up with the @NFL! 🏈 Our multi-year agreement sets the stage for the future of esports competition, with developers competing to create NFL-themed mobile games! Learn more here: https://t.co/yVoVH7ruxl
— Skillz (@skillz) February 4, 2021
“The NFL is an iconic brand that is synonymous with American sports, and Skillz is thrilled to help power their esports competitions on mobile,” said Skillz CEO and founder, Andrew Paradise.
According to Rachel Hoagland, VP of Gaming & Esports at the NFL, Skillz is an ideal “long term” partner.
With the rise in popularity in the mobile gaming sphere, it only makes sense that the shield would eventually make its way into that world. The NFL’s partnership with Skillz is yet another move to give sports gamers more options when it comes to gaming.
In March of last year, the NFL announced a multi-year partnership with 2K to develop multiple future non-simulation football titles. The first of which is expected this year. Many players have become increasingly frustrated with the Madden franchise over the past decade. While not direct competition, perhaps the NFL’s partnership with other developers could be a win for football gamers in the years to come.
What do you guys think of the NFL’s new gaming partnership? Where do you think football gaming goes from here? Leave a comment and let us know! Stay tuned to Sports Gamers Online for more information as it comes.
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