Transmedia esports and gaming powerhouse Galaxy Racer has announced the launch of its HER Galaxy Tournament Series, a new competitive gaming initiative that’ll provide meaningful playing opportunities for female gamers.
Recent studies show that 57% of women between the ages of 18-29 self-identify that they play video games, yet women only account for roughly 5% of professional gamers.
UK research firm Bryter released a study that shows female gamers face harassment and isolation from other gamers, making one in four women refuse to play again.
Megan Holgate, VP of Partnerships at Galaxy Racer said, “Gaming is still in its infancy relative to other sports, and we have the opportunity to change the trajectory of gaming culture by putting more support behind initiatives for gamers who identify as women.”
“At Galaxy Racer, we are proud to be the only gender-balanced esports organisation in the world. We believe we can make meaningful changes now to empower women to create new norms for the industry. The HER Galaxy Tournament is just the first of many steps to make this happen,” said Holgate.
The company’s HER Galaxy will also create new opportunities for gamers from underrepresented genders to compete at the highest levels in a more inclusive and welcoming esports environment and earn sponsorships, recognition, and prize money.
“I’m so happy that young girls and women who are looking to get into gaming finally have access to a community where they can find opportunities to play, meet other gamers like them and be inspired,” said Reddysh, Galaxy Racer NA creator and HER Galaxy Ambassador. “By showcasing underrated grinders, I hope the HER Galaxy Tournament Series will encourage more amateur gamers to dive into the competitive world and to keep working hard to achieve their dreams.”
The HER Galaxy Tournament Series will offer seven events throughout 2023 with a combined prize pool of $250,000 and 8 days of broadcasts which can be watched via the Galaxy Racer Twitch channel. The schedule is as follows:
- March – Charity Creator Cup
- April – Apex Legends Open Qualifier Split 1
- May – Apex Legends Open Qualifier Split 2
- June – Apex Legends Finals
- July – Rocket League Open Qualifier Split 1
- August – Rocket League Open Qualifier Split 2
- September – Rocket League Grand Finals (Live Event)
Isa Muhammad is a writer and video game journalist covering many aspects of entertainment media including the film industry. He's steadily writing his way to the sharp end of journalism and enjoys staying informed. If he's not reading, playing video games or catching up on his favourite TV series, then he's probably writing about them.