In mid-November 2023, the T1 team (South Korea) won the championship of the 2023 League of Legends World Championship, creating a “frenzy” on social media. In Vietnam, both the gaming community and the general public shared images, posted videos to celebrate, and commented en masse. Many major brands also joined in on the trend following the event.
The wide distribution and discussion of news about an Esports discipline, as seen recently, is a clear sign of the blossoming community interested in and passionate about gaming in Vietnam. From the small screens of gamers, gaming has been and is bringing a variety of significant benefits related to mental health, community bonding, and economic development.
Potential Mental and Economic Value
No longer confined by prejudices or negative skepticism, gaming has been scientifically proven to be beneficial for mental health. The Week (UK) points out that participating in video games can help players reduce stress and improve mood. Some games even enhance concentration and decision-making skills significantly.
The connections formed among gamers over time have led to the establishment of professional, organized communities. This is the foundation for building Vietnamese Esports teams with impressive achievements on the international stage.
After years of perseverance in establishing a mark, at the 30th SEA Games in 2019, Esports was officially recognized in Vietnam when it appeared on the list of medal-winning disciplines. As a competitive sport, Esports continues to encourage the spirit of unity within the gaming community, just like traditional sports. Outstanding gamers now have an official platform to compete for their country’s colors. Loyal fans have a vibrant space to follow.
In 2023, Bloomberg rated Vietnam as a gaming powerhouse, with data showing that Vietnam ranks among the top 5 countries in mobile game production worldwide.
If in the past, earning money from gaming was merely a distant dream, it has now become a reality. Professional gamers can earn money from tournaments. Streamers and reviewers have opened up the gaming content creation industry with attractive income.
Opening Up a Vast Creative World
Before discussing the diversity in the economic narrative of the online gaming industry, one cannot overlook the creativity of the gaming community. Streamers, reviewers, and content creators have brought forth a vast world of gaming content, especially in short video formats on TikTok. Many gaming content creators have become beloved influencers, with millions and hundreds of thousands of followers, such as: Bac Gau (@bacgau), Angel (@angelplay), Pressing Time (@pressingtime),…
From short videos, creative efforts, and interactions, content producers have opened a new door for the gaming community with TikTok – becoming a playground that connects and spreads values. Over the past few years, TikTok has had many activities supporting the gaming community, contributing to honoring achievements and inspiring positivity. The TikTok Vietnam Awards 2023 held on November 25 recently announced GAM Esports Official (@gamesportsvn) as the Gaming/Esports Content Channel of the Year.
The team has won the VCS championship 9 times, secured a gold medal at SEA Games 31, and continues to represent Vietnam in various international esports competitions. Through their TikTok account, GAM players share insights and experiences about Esports, as well as stories from their daily lives. Speaking about their achievement at the TikTok Vietnam Awards 2023, GAM team stated: “Thank you, TikTok, for becoming an ideal destination for everyone to share experiences. In the future, GAM Esports will continue to strive to develop and bring glory to Vietnam.”
With the theme “Big On The Small Screen – Honoring Great Achievements from the Small Screen”, the TikTok Vietnam Awards 2023 not only encouraged the gaming community but also paid tribute to creators in all fields. Throughout more than a month of organization, through summarizing and honoring videos, the program contributed to spreading positive creative values and significant achievements on the small screen to millions of TikTok users.