The North American organization cites concerns with the circuit and financial viability as reasons for their exit.
In a surprising move, 100 Thieves, a prominent North American esports organization, has announced its departure from the competitive Apex Legends scene. Despite assembling a roster for the upcoming 2024 season, the organization cited concerns with the structure of the circuit and their ability to break even as the main reasons for their exit. This decision comes after a period of economic turbulence for 100 Thieves, which led to multiple layoffs and a refocus of their business model.
A Struggle for Success
Since entering the Apex Legends esports scene in 2019, 100 Thieves has been a consistent presence but has yet to secure a major championship. While the organization has participated in multiple international tournaments, their highest placement was 14th at the Split 2 Playoffs in 2023. Despite their efforts, 100 Thieves has been unable to achieve the level of success they desired in the game.
Economic Challenges and Restructuring
The decision to leave Apex Legends esports is not isolated but rather a consequence of the negative economic climate in the esports industry. Throughout the year, 100 Thieves faced financial difficulties, leading to several rounds of layoffs. In response, the organization recently announced a “refocus” in its business model, which involved reducing team sizes and spinning off projects such as its energy drink and game development ventures.
A Discord Announcement
The news of 100 Thieves’ departure from Apex Legends was conveyed by Jacob Toft-Andersen, the Vice President of Esports, through a post in the organization’s Discord channel. In his message, Toft-Andersen expressed the organization’s commitment to ensuring that each title they participate in breaks even. He also highlighted the importance of working closely with developers in these titles, which they felt was lacking in the structure of the Apex Legends Global Series (ALGS).
Friction with EA
Toft-Andersen’s comments alluded to a strained relationship between 100 Thieves and the game’s developer, Electronic Arts (EA). It has been reported that EA rejected the idea of revenue sharing with organizations through in-game cosmetics in the ALGS. This decision, coupled with other grievances, has resulted in well-established organizations leaving the Battle Royale esport. It appears that 100 Thieves’ departure from Apex Legends is a reflection of their dissatisfaction with the lack of collaboration and support from EA.
Uncertain Future for Former Players
While 100 Thieves’ slot in the North American ALGS is expected to remain with its former players, there are doubts about the team’s continuity for the upcoming season. Fans anxiously await news on how the players and EA will handle 100 Thieves’ vacant slot in the league for the 2024 season. The departure of such a prominent organization raises questions about the future of Apex Legends esports and the relationship between developers and organizations in the industry.
Conclusion:
100 Thieves’ decision to exit Apex Legends esports marks a significant development in the competitive landscape of the game. The organization’s concerns over the circuit’s structure and financial viability, coupled with their strained relationship with EA, have ultimately led to their departure. This decision reflects the challenges faced by esports organizations in navigating the economic realities of the industry. As fans and players await further updates, it remains to be seen how this departure will impact the future of Apex Legends esports and the broader relationship between developers and organizations.
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