China esports industry expected to triple its worth, hit $3 billion by 2020

China Central Television reports that the local esports market is set to reach ¥21.1 billion RMB (around $3 billion), according to Esports Insider. This is set to be almost triple that of what the industry was valued at for 2018.

According to the report, there are more than 50,000 jobs within the local industry in China, which is also set to bloat to 25,000 by 2020. The number of leagues, ways to watch and enjoy the games, as well as live events, will all increase to accommodate growth. The Chinese government, too, is working to let everyone know about esports.

Rocket League shop for players

Psyonix, the developer of the popular game Rocket League, is launching a new esports shop and plans to split some of the money generated with teams and participating professional players. The new shop will be opened as part of a pilot program, starting April 16. This storefront will offer new in-game cosmetics, as well as banners to allow players to brand the colors of their favorite teams.

As reported by Variety, the new esports store will house six items and be refreshed regularly with specific timers attached to each listing. New esports tokens will need to be purchased to spend in the store, which will be available as part of the following bundles:

100 Tokens for $0.99.
600 Tokens for $4.99.
1200 Tokens for $9.99.
2500 Tokens for $19.99.

Items purchased through the store will not be up for trading. Teams and players part of the North American and European RLCS League Play will be eligible for the new program.