The Impact of COVID-19 Pandemic on Esports in Thailand
Keywords:
Adaptation, Esports, Impact of COVID-19Abstract
Over the past few years, electronic sports (Esports) have quickly gained popularity all over the world. In Thailand, there has continuously been an increase in the number of competitions and growing interest in Esports. Ever since the COVID-19 pandemic began, several sectors have been affected. This article aims to study the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on Esports and the adaptation of Esports industry in Thailand. It also recommends the preventive measures and promotions of Esports during pandemic. A qualitative method was used to collect data from documents and interviews. To analyze the data, a thematic analysis technique was employed. The results show that the Esports industry in Thailand has been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, both to athletes and competition organizers. Athletes have lost income and actual on-site competitions have not been permitted. However, the Esports industry is able to adapt and cope with the pandemic. This has been achieved by athletes broadcasting their matches through social media to earn income, organizers hosting more online competitions and using
strict pandemic prevention measures for on-site events. To promote the growth of Esports to generate greater revenues for Thailand, the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society should educate the public about Esports, assign appropriate agencies to support Esports competitions,
and impose Esports protection laws, for example, competition arrangements, athlete protection,
and control of children and youth.
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