COD - Call of Duty League

COD - Call of Duty League

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Wikipedia - Call of Duty League

The Call of Duty League (CDL) is a professional esports league for the video game series Call of Duty, produced by its publisher Activision. The Call of Duty League follows the model of the Overwatch League as well as other traditional North American professional sporting leagues by using a set of permanent, city-based teams backed by separate ownership groups. In addition, the league plays in a tournament point system and playoffs format rather than the use of promotion and relegation used commonly in other esports and non-North American leagues, with players on the roster being assured a minimum annual salary, benefits, and a portion of winnings and revenue-sharing based on how that team performs. The league was announced in 2019 with its inaugural season starting in 2020.

History

In February 2019, Activision Blizzard officially confirmed their intention to launch a city-based, franchised league for Call of Duty, marking their second such organization following the Overwatch League, founded in 2017. To prepare for establishing the League, Activision terminated both the Call of Duty Pro League and Call of Duty World League in mid-2019.

The first five teams to purchase a spot for the league was announced in May 2019; the companies – OverActive Media, Atlanta Esports Ventures, Envy Gaming, c0ntact Gaming LLC, and Sterling.VC – were also parent companies for teams in Activision Blizzard's other franchised league, the Overwatch League. All twelve franchises were finalized in October 2019, with a majority of the franchised having never professionally competed in Call of Duty. The Washington Post estimated that the franchise cost was US$25 million.

Initially, the CDL announced that they would be running a regular season format culminating in postseason playoffs. However, after criticism from the Call of Duty esports community, the league elected to switch to a tournament system, which was officially announced in January 2020.

In the days prior to the launch of the inaugural season, Activision announced it had made a multiyear deal with Google for all of its esports content, including the CDL, to be exclusively shown through YouTube. Prior Activision esports, particularly OWL, had used Twitch. Activision also announced other official sponsors of the league on eve of the first season: On March 9, Activision announced partnerships with both Twitter and the United States Army.

Effects of the COVID-19 pandemic

On March 13, 2020, the Call of Duty League released a statement entailing that all live home series events were cancelled due to concerns over the novel COVID-19 Coronavirus outbreak, to which they said that upcoming events will be done via online play and possibly return to live events if logistically and feasibly possible. On May 19, 2020, the Call of Duty League announced changes to the 2020 Call of Duty League Championship. Instead of 8 teams making it to the Championship weekend all 12 teams would now compete for the Championship in a double-elimination tournament. A US$4.6 million prize pool was announced, with the winning team taking home US$2 million.

On July 5, 2020, the Call of Duty league announced that the postseason would also be played online as a result of the pandemic. Additional measures to further protect the competitive integrity of the league were also announced. All competitors are to be provided with a universal camera which will need to be activated throughout all matches with the camera providing league officials visibility each competitor's console, controller and monitor.

Department of Justice lawsuit and settlement

On April 3, 2023 the United States Department of Justice filed a lawsuit and Activision Blizzard agreed to settle the suit on the same day, with provisions that would prohibit it from implementing a salary cap or luxury tax, or any other measure that would unfairly depress player salaries in the Overwatch League, the Call of Duty League, or any other esports league.

**Tournament Description: Call of Duty League (COD League)**

Welcome to the Call of Duty League (COD League), the premier esports tournament that brings together the best teams and players from around the globe to compete in the fast-paced, action-packed world of Call of Duty. This highly anticipated event showcases the pinnacle of competitive gaming, where skill, strategy, and teamwork collide in a battle for glory and a share of the prize pool.

**Event Highlights:**

- **Top-Tier Competition:** Watch as elite teams, composed of the most talented players in the Call of Duty community, go head-to-head in a series of thrilling matches. Each team has fought hard through qualifiers to earn their spot in this prestigious league, ensuring that only the best of the best will compete.

- **Dynamic Gameplay:** Experience the intensity of Call of Duty like never before. With a variety of game modes and maps, each match promises to deliver heart-pounding action, strategic plays, and jaw-dropping moments that will keep fans on the edge of their seats.

- **Live Broadcasts:** Tune in to our live streams featuring expert commentary, in-depth analysis, and behind-the-scenes content. Engage with the community through interactive features, including live chats and social media integration, as you cheer for your favorite teams.

- **Fan Engagement:** Join us for exclusive fan events, giveaways, and opportunities to meet your favorite players. The COD League is not just about the competition; it's a celebration of the vibrant esports community that supports it.

- **Global Reach:** With teams representing various regions, the COD League transcends borders, uniting fans from all over the world. Whether you're watching from home or attending in person, you'll be part of a global phenomenon that celebrates the spirit of competition.

**Join the Action:**

Mark your calendars and prepare for an unforgettable experience at the Call of Duty League. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the scene, this tournament promises to deliver excitement, drama, and unforgettable moments. Who will rise to the top and claim the title of champion? Don’t miss out on the action—be part of the COD League and witness history in the making!