New eSports arena opening in Arlington, Texas this fall

100,000 square foot space to hold 1,000 fans.

March 14, 2018

The city of Arlington, Texas has announced plans to build a state-of-the-art eSports stadium that’s scheduled to open later this year.

City's proposed Esports Stadium #ArlingtonTX, the largest in the country, is designed to draw competitive players and fans from around the world. #AmericanDreamCity #EsportsStadium https://t.co/ul2ZCjR2VA pic.twitter.com/cunI6nDtZe

— City of Arlington (@CityOfArlington) March 14, 2018

When opened, the 100,000 square foot facility will be the largest eSports arena in the United States, with the ability to hold 1,000 spectators. It’s designed to draw competitive players, fans and tourists from around the world. The facility will be right down the road from where the Dallas Cowboys and Texas Rangers play.

“Being on the forefront of new ideas and setting trends is in our DNA and part of who we are at The American Dream City,” said Arlington mayor Jeff Williams. “Esports Stadium Arlington will further cement our city’s status as a national and international tourist destination. Players and fans will come here for the tournaments and they’ll stay even longer to experience everything Arlington has to offer.”

Esports Venues LLC, and the architecture firm Populous, are investing $10 million into the extensive renovations. Esports Venues has a 10-year lease for the venue, with a 10-year renewal option. Also partnering on the deal is NGAGE Esports, who’ve been tapped to manage the facility. It’s worth noting that NGAGE is in active partnership OpTic Gaming and the Houston Outlaws, thus it’s extremely likely that we’re getting our first look at the Outlaws’ future home.

With a facility this large it’s doubtful that Overwatch League will be the only esport Arlington has in mind for potential partners. League of Legends, Dota 2, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Hearthstone could all potentially make an appearance. It’ll be interesting to see how many other cities take note of Arlington’s gamble and decide to try and get their own slice of the pie.