Discover the Human Stories Behind Esports in New Amazon Series
The fast-growing world of competitive esports is showcased in a new five-episode documentary series exclusively on Amazon Prime Video.
The esports market has exploded in recent years, with revenue increasing threefold from 2017 to 2024, now approaching a billion dollars according to esportsinsider.com. Well-known, mainstream products are making inroads as well, sponsoring teams and tournaments.
Directed by Emmy-award winning director R.J. Cutler and produced by This Machine, a unit of Sony Pictures Television, “Esports World Cup: Level Up” premiered on Amazon Prime June 6. it covers last year’s naugural Esports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
More than just about video games, the series shows the stories of the people behind the controllers.
“What drew me to the Esports World Cup was the compelling human stories unfolding within this high-stakes arena,” said Cutler. “Level Up isn’t just about the incredible competition and prize money; it’s about the dedication, the passion, and the sheer will of these athletes and teams pushing the boundaries of what’s possible. Under high pressure, we discover the true character of the competitors who vie for $60 million, but who also expose their humanity in the process.”
“A win might make the headlines — but the real story is the people behind it,” said Ralf Reichert, CEO of the Esports World Cup Foundation. “Level Up dives into the human side of esports: the pressure, the ambition, the sacrifices. It’s about what it really takes to compete at the highest level — and why it matters. R.J. is the best at bringing those stories to life, and this one captures the heart of what we’re building.”
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- Episode 101, The Race For the Cup, introduces Team Falcons, a rising powerhouse anchored by Warzone phenom Soka, who faces off against former teammates in a high-stakes showdown.
- Episode 102, Winning is Everything, the spotlight shifts to Team Liquid and CEO Steve Arhancet, who arrives at EWC with deep roots in League of Legends and a legacy to uphold.
- Episode 103, It Means More, has participants face defining moments in their Club Championship quests.
- Episode 104, From Out of Nowhere, sees momentum build with a fierce Call of Duty: Modern Warfare III clash. Meanwhile, an unknown player from a remote island delivers a stunning performance that disrupts the tournament’s balance.
- Episode 105, Finish Line, the grand finale, spans 22 titles, with $7 million on the line. With $4 million at stake for second place, every game becomes a make-or-break moment in this showdown.
The inaugural Esports World Cup in 2024 featured 1,500 players and 200 clubs from 100 countries, competing in 22 tournaments across 21 games for a $60 million prize pool, the largest in esports history.
This year’s Esports World Cup starts July 8.
