## The Esports Paradox: Why Chasing Trophies Might Be Killing the Industry
The current trajectory of professional gaming feels increasingly hollow. While the industry is obsessed with high-production value, mainstream celebrity crossovers, and aggressive marketing, it is losing sight of the foundation that built it: the grassroots community. In my view, this pivot toward superficial flashiness won’t spell long-term success. If esports is to survive the current market correction, it must pivot back to authentic engagement rather than just spectacle.
### Beyond the Podium: A New Philosophy for Organizations
To understand why the industry is struggling, we have to look at the business models of the past decade. Wouter Sleijffers, who served as CEO of the legendary organization Fnatic from 2015 to 2019, oversaw some of the most significant milestones in competitive gaming, including a historic run to the 2018 League of Legends World Championship finals.
However, looking back at his tenure, Sleijffers offers a perspective that challenges the “win-at-all-costs” mentality. In a candid discussion, he told Esports Now that the obsession with constant victory is a trap.
### Why Winning Isn’t Everything
It sounds counterintuitive-even reckless-to suggest that a professional team shouldn’t prioritize winning. Yet, Sleijffers argues that for an organization to be truly sustainable, “top four is good enough.”
The logic here is simple but often ignored: when an organization ties its entire brand identity to the trophy case, it becomes fragile. If the team hits a slump or the roster underperforms, the fan base evaporates because there is no deeper connection to the brand. By focusing solely on prize money and podium finishes, teams neglect the community-building efforts that create loyal, long-term supporters.
### The Sustainability Shift
The industry is currently facing a reality check. With venture capital drying up and sponsorship budgets tightening, organizations can no longer rely on the “growth at any cost” model. Recent data suggests that organizations with high community engagement-those that produce content, foster local scenes, and interact directly with fans-are far more resilient than those that simply chase the next tournament win.
True viability in esports won’t come from the next million-dollar broadcast upgrade or a celebrity endorsement. It will come from organizations that treat their fans as stakeholders rather than just viewers. If the industry continues to prioritize bravado over community, it risks alienating the very people who made it a global phenomenon in the first place.
