The Evil Geniuses organization has been acquired by Chicago-based technology and investment firm PEAK6 Investments LLC.
No financial details have been released, but changes are already afoot at the organization, with Nicole LaPointe Jameson being appointed as CEO. Phillip Aram, who has been running EG since the departure of Peter “PPD” Dager as CEO, will be continuing on with EG as COO.
PEAK6 co-founder Jenny Just offered that the organization’s experience in traditional sports presented a natural entryway to the esports industry.
“Having watched the esports industry grow and evolve, we are aligned with Evil Geniuses’ vision to create meaningful and innovative experiences for fans and athletes alike,” Just said. “This alliance enhances our mission to lead with an unrelenting competitive drive and a desire to embrace today’s consumer through technology.”
EG was one of the few major independent organizations left in esports. After being given to the players when Twitch decided it probably shouldn’t be in the business of owning esports organizations, EG has continued on largely unchanged, feilding top level teams in multiple games but notably staying away from franchised leagues.
Some have speculated that this deal could see EG make a bid for a spot in the franchised Call of Duty league that is set to launch within the next year. EG has a long history in Call of Duty and was even crowned as world champion last year, so the team not being able to afford a spot in the league would be a disappointment for many. With the new financial backing they could now be in the running for a spot in the competition.
The could also be increased impetus from Activision Blizzard to bring in established Call of Duty brands given the potential erasure of the OpTic Gaming brand.
“PEAK6’s strong track record of building and transforming businesses makes them the perfect partner for Evil Geniuses,” Phillip Aram said. “This new relationship embodies our promise to deliver excellence not only to our fans and communities, but also our players and staff.”
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