(Courtesy of Complexity Gaming)
Complexity Gaming has announced a partnership with Oklahoma-based WinStar World Casino and Resort, marking the first time that a U.S. esports organization has picked up a casino as an official sponsor.
Complexity Gaming is perceived as one of the most accomplished esports franchises in North America, and in November 2017 the company was acquired by Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. WinStar is the same casino that entered a partnership with the Cowboys in September, becoming the first casino to officially sponsor an NFL team.
“WinStar is a preeminent gaming and entertainment venue, and we are excited for them to become our exclusive casino partner,” said Jason Lake, Founder and CEO of Complexity Gaming, in a press release. “This partnership signals a significant shift in the esports sphere toward making competitive gaming entertainment even more mainstream.”
WinStar is located in Thackerville, Okla., just north of the Texas-Oklahoma border, and offers over 600,000 square feet of gaming space. As part of the deal, Complexity’s professional gamers will have access to WinStar’s hotel, two golf courses, and a concert venue. In return, Complexity gamers will appear at WinStar to host on-site biannual meet-and-greets and “boot camps” for fans. Complexity has plans in the future to work alongside WinStar to bring a top gaming event into the space.
“The high-energy and competitive nature of esports aligns with our focus on creating unique, high-energy gaming and entertainment experiences for our patrons,” said Jack Parkinson, WinStar general manager, in the press release. “Complexity’s forward-thinking and innovative approach to one of the fastest growing genres of mainstream entertainment is a natural fit as we look toward remaining at the forefront of the gaming industry.”
Complexity Gaming was founded in 2003 and recently moved its main operations to the Cowboys’ World Headquarters in Frisco, Texas. The organization fields esports teams for popular video game titles such as Madden NFL, Fortnite Battle Royale, and Rocket League.
SportTechie Takeaway
Sports betting is still illegal in Oklahoma, and although WinStar is located on land owned by the Chickasaw Nation, it still requires permission from the state before offering sports betting. But WinStar’s deals with the Cowboys and now Complexity Gaming could give it a significant head start if and when sports betting is legalized in Oklahoma.
