Acer, eSports, and building better gaming PCs
We recently had a chance to catch up with Darren Simmons, Oceanic Managing Director, at Acer, for a chat on the state of PC gaming and the competitive hardware market.
The gaming PC market in Australia has reached a point of maturity and there’s no doubt that competition has reached an all-time high when it comes to pre-built gaming systems..
PCPP: You’ve got some new Predator products coming out, but it’s a much more competitive market for pre-built gaming systems than it was when the brand was first introduced - is that affecting the gaming PC business? Darren Simmons:
The gaming PC market in Australia has reached a point of maturity and there’s no doubt that competition has reached an all-time high when it comes to pre-built gaming systems. Because of this, Acer has focused its efforts on continuously delivering new Predator technology to stay ahead of the curve and differentiate ourselves.
Examples of this include award winning Predator monitors, such as the Predator XB3 series that won the 2019 Red Dot Award for Product Design and improves the gaming experience for users; Acer’s proprietary cooling technology AeroBlade 3D which is embedded into the Predator notebooks to allow for even greater levels of cooling, and the IceTunnel cooling system for desktops which is designed to create a powerful and specific airflow that efficiently pushes out hot internal air. All of this works together to differentiate the Predator brand in the market, offer a unique experience with added features and ensure the setup of these devices for gamers is as seamless as possible.
PCPP: That being the case, how is the Predator range faring as we come into 2020? What are some of the fresh challenges you’re expecting? DS:
As the gaming hardware market is maturing in Australia and New Zealand, gamers are consistently updating their systems to ensure that they have the best and most up to date offerings. Given this refresh rate and the fact that gaming graphics are constantly changing and improving, one of the biggest considerations for us in 2020 will be how we maintain our steady market share and keep up momentum of the Predator brand. Additionally, our focus will be on consistently rolling-out new products launching in the region to keep up with industry demand and working with our partners, such as Intel, to make sure that gamers of all levels have access to the most cutting-edge technology. We’re excited to be launching the X32 4K HDR Gaming Monitor, the CG552K 55in OLED Gaming Monitor, and a refresh of the Triton 500, with the products forecast to arrive in Australia in the second half of 2020.
In terms of what else is to come for Predator in 2020, we’re looking forward to bringing the coveted Thronos Air gaming chair to Australia and showcase it at major gaming events such as Intel Extreme Masters (IEM) to give customers an experience that shows them first hand just how immersive gaming can be.
PCPP: eSports is obviously going from strength to strength, and Acer continues to invest heavily in the area - what are some of the benefits for Acer as a company when it comes to eSports?
DS: eSports is an extremely exciting area and one that continues to evolve. The eSports industry has a highly engaged audience and the competitiveness of the industry and demand for the best graphics and processing power has ensured we continuously look at the technology that’s powering our gaming devices and how it can take gamers to new levels.
As eSports continues to rise in popularity, it is becoming much more accessible to entry level players, which has provided us with opportunities to design and develop hardware – such as the Acer Nitro range – that best serves these audiences. On the other hand, the level of professionalism taking place in the industry has also driven innovation for Acer, including the development of the Predator Thronos gaming chair which allows serious gamers to immerse themselves and have greater control over their experience.
Beyond devices, eSports has also allowed Acer to diversify into other areas and identify new opportunities to bring communities together. This can be seen particularly through our annual Predator League tournament, which gives eSports teams a platform to test their skills and compete on a regional level.
PCPP: What are some of your eSports activities in Australia? Growing eSports here continues to be quite a challenge.
DS: eSports is an area that attracts so many Australians from all ages and locations and is forecast by PwC to grow to be a $21 million industry locally by 2022. Acer has taken strides in Australia to ensure that we continue to invest in eSports, not just from a hardware perspective, but also show our support when it comes to fostering a supportive environment and giving players opportunities to grow their skills and play on the national or global stage.
One of the ways we have done this is by sponsoring the META High School Esports League, which is a program developed by the Adelaide Football Club in partnership with Riot Games that provides schools across Australia and New Zealand with the opportunity to have access to local and national leagues, training, development and eSports arenas. Not only does the program aim to drive passion for and skills in eSports among students, it also improves engagement and school attendance, and nurtures Australia’s next generation of eSports champions.
Planet9 is an open eSports community that offers opportunities for amateur and casual gamers to help them level up and participate in eSports activities..
PCPP: Many of our readers already know about the Predator League, but what can you tell me about your new Planet 9 platform?
DS: Planet9 is an open eSports community that offers opportunities for amateur and casual gamers to help them level up and participate in eSports activities. The social platform launched in late 2019 and has just moved into an open beta phase. Acer has strength across hardware, software and services and we wanted to build on this and give eSports players training and mentoring opportunities by hiring a coach to give individual guidance or play alongside veteran players, as well as connect with other gamers at their level and participate in tournaments.
One of the features we’re most excited about is that gamers can see advanced game statistics to track their performance. For example, data including wins, losses, kills, deaths and items purchased are used to pair the gamer with the most ideal coach and offer insights so they can continuously improve their gameplay.