TWITCH

RIVALS ARENA

PROJECT SUMMARY

Following the success of their first large scale eSports tournament, Rivals at TwitchCon San Diego, Twitch wanted to create a new arena for Rivals at TwitchCon EU Amsterdam in May 2020. They needed a flexible design that could support multiple game types, from 100 player Battle Royale to 5V5 MOBA matchups, while bringing the online Twitch experience to life for the in-person audience.

Inspired by the classic shape of the D-Pad controller we designed a spoked arena that surrounds the audience with player stations on multiple sides to help bring them into the action. Stadium seating and elevated platforms, including a central stage with 10 gaming stations, allow for multiple viewpoints and quick changes in focus and game types. A multi-layered screen sits above the arena for showing gameplay and ticker graphics while fragmented screens surround the audience with player banners and support visuals creating a dynamic and immersive environment unlike anything else in the eSports world.

Due to the pandemic in 2020 the project was never completed, but elements of the design have been used at Twitch Rivals events in 2022 and 2023.

Agency:
Roundhouse

Creative Team:
R. Kyle Everett - Creative Director, Concept Development, Experience Flow, Layout, Scenic & Environmental Design, 3D Modeling & Renders

Mimi Pham - Layout, Scenic & Environmental Design, 3D Modeling & Renders

OVERVIEW VIDEO

GALLERY

Player Tunnel
Drawing inspiration from stadium sporting events, the tunnel provides a focal point for the audience and a moment of spectacle as players enter the arena. The lit geometric design follows the same visual language as the stage while the LED dot matrix displays on the front of the tunnel can be used to call out player names and stats.

Shoutcaster Circle
This small stage extends from the main arena and provides a secondary area for on-floor Shoutcasters to conduct interviews and provide analysis. The stage can also be used as a “winner’s circle,” for giving out awards.

Shoutcaster Studio
The studio overlooks the arena and serves as the primary area for Shoutcasters to provide event coverage. The relaxed livingroom-like setting mimics the Rivals home studio at Twitch HQ, maintaining a familiar branded feel that fans know and love.

Main Entrance
This wall serves three purposes – it divides the arena from the rest of the convention hall acts as the audience entrance, and attracts convention attendees to the arena. The main feature is a large scale "pixel" display that can be used to show logos, graphics, messages, and animations. A centrally located entrance tunnel mimics the Player Tunnel and gives the audience an experiential moment as they transition from the expo floor.