EEG and Hard Rock to host “one-of-a-kind” skill-based esports event in NJ

Esports Entertainment Group (EEG) and the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City are set to make history by hosting the first officially sanctioned “esports skill-based wagering event” in the United States, scheduled for January 2022.

Under the LANDuel brand, EEG will conduct a 256-player, in-person Madden 22 tournament at the Hard Rock venue on January 22 and 23, 2022. This groundbreaking event comes after obtaining special approval from the New Jersey Division of Gaming Enforcement, allowing participants to place bets on the outcomes of their own matches—a significant development in the realm of regulated esports betting.

“We are immensely proud to offer a unique esports wagering experience in collaboration with EEG,” stated Joe Lupo, President of Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Atlantic City. “This innovative and highly regulated partnership is poised for success, further enriching our comprehensive gaming offerings and reinforcing our position as a market leader.”

In addition to the main tournament, the event will feature multiple PCs for “side matches,” giving non-participating players the opportunity to engage in gameplay and wager on their performances. This inclusive approach enhances the experience for all event attendees, creating a vibrant community atmosphere that extends beyond competitive play.

EEG’s venture into New Jersey signifies a notable milestone, as the company received its inaugural U.S. gaming license in May 2021, following the establishment of its GMBL New Jersey subsidiary. This strategic move positions EEG at the forefront of the rapidly evolving esports gambling sector, underscoring its commitment to providing exciting and regulated wagering opportunities.

As the gambling industry continues to innovate and adapt, events like this highlight the growing integration of esports and traditional sports betting. Stakeholders and players alike are eager to explore the dynamic landscape of skill-based wagering, where individual talent meets the thrill of betting. This launch serves as a catalyst for future events and partnerships, paving the way for an expanded esports gambling market.