7 minute read
Introducing the Esports Arena
A Technological Marvel by PureTek Group
By Randy Reid
Photos courtesy of PureTek Group
It's 1999, and I'm having a conversation with my son and his three middle school friends, all intensely focused on their video game controllers. Eminem blares from the Dell computer, courtesy of a Napster file.
Me: Too bad you can’t earn a living playing video games.
Kids: (No response, only intensified button mashing and more concentrated gyrations.)
Me: Yep, wouldn’t it be nice if you could get a degree in video games?
Kids: (Still no response, eyes glued to the screen.)
Me: I think the house is burning, perhaps we should all leave.
Son: Get a life, Dad!
My son has always enjoyed proving me wrong. Fast forward to today, and much to my amazement, high schools are implementing something called esports arenas, which are high-end venues for video games. And yes, gaming is now considered a sport.
PureTek Group, known for its expertise in lighting, broadcasting, audio, and visual technologies, undertook the comprehensive design and implementation of an esports arena at Plainfield High School in New Jersey. Dan Litvin, President and Co-founder of PureTek Group, shared insights into the extensive work his team performed. "We provided a comprehensive technology system including broadcasting, audio, visual, rigging, and lighting,” Dan explained. The project aimed to create a space that was not only functional but also highly engaging for students and guests.
THE LIGHTING DESIGN BY PURETEK GROUP
The lighting design was a key component of the project. PureTek Group incorporated Acolyte RGBW strip lighting throughout the esports space. This setup allowed for a flexible lighting environment suitable for various applications, from classroom settings to custodial work.
The Acolyte linear lighting solutions are central to the arena's design. The Madrix system allows for fine-tuned control of the LED strip lights, which are divided into four-inch individually addressable increments. This setup enhances the visual appeal and functionality of the space by providing precise and customizable lighting effects. "The strip lighting and acoustic paneling with RGBW lighting create a versatile environment," Dan elaborated. "We can switch to standard white lighting for cleaning or other practical uses."
In addition to the strip lighting, the space features two moving lights with gobos, enhancing the immersive experience during gaming events. These elements, combined with the capability to display school colors and effects, significantly contribute to the dynamic and engaging atmosphere of the arena.
THE ESPORTS ARENA: A MULTI-FUNCTIONAL SPACE
The esports arena, approximately 1,490 square feet in size, was designed to host regional, statewide, and even national tournaments. This arena, transformed from two classrooms, offers a modern and tech-forward space.
The PureTek design included a live stream setup connecting the esports arena to a next-door IMAX auditorium for overflow spectators. "The auditorium is built for overflow, with the same linear strip lighting and standard theater elements," Dan noted. "It allows spectators to watch the gameplay in real-time, creating a cohesive and immersive experience."
One of the unique features of the arena is its interactive feedback system. Microphones and PTZ cameras capture the audience's reactions in the auditorium, which are then played back into the esports arena. "This setup allows the players to hear the fans' cheers in real time, enhancing the immersive experience," Dan explained.
THE ROLE OF ESPORTS IN EDUCATION
Esports is increasingly being recognized as a legitimate sport, with educational institutions incorporating it into their curricula. Mike Tucker, Director of Business Development for PureTek Group, emphasized the growing acceptance of esports, noting, "The inaugural Olympic Esports Week was held in Singapore in June 2023, which included the in-person live finals of the 2023 Olympic Esports Series."
PureTek Group’s design also considered the educational aspect of esports. The arena is not just for gaming but serves as a learning environment where students can develop skills in broadcasting, event management, and technology. "Esports elective programs are being developed as part of CTE (Career and Technical Education) accredited programs, providing students with valuable technical skills," Dan stated.
THE DESIGN AND INSTALLATION PROCESS
The design process for the esports arena was streamlined, thanks to PureTek Group’s integrated approach. "We didn't have to consult multiple external companies; everything was done inhouse," Dan noted. This efficiency allowed the team to complete the design in about a month and a half, with installation beginning in September 2023.
PureTek Group’s holistic approach ensured that all aspects of the project, from rigging to audio-visual integration, were seamlessly integrated. "We handled everything from start to finish, ensuring a cohesive vision and execution," Tucker emphasized.
The theater features an IMAX-sized screen, complete with full audio arrays and fill speakers. Its design includes the innovative capability of touchscreen control, allowing for onetouch management of all audio and video lighting systems. Additionally, it supports a video feed from the esports arena directly to the theater, enhancing the immersive experience for the audience.
CONTROLS
The client-facing controls are managed via PureTeks’s unRAVL (Unified Rigging-Audio-Visual-Lighting) platform, which provides intuitive touch panel-based controls. This system integrates motorized rigging components, including the IMAX-sized screen, as well as audiovisual, performance lighting, and house lighting.
For lighting controls in the auditorium, the integration combines ETC Paradigm (for stage and house lighting) with Madrix (for LED strip lighting) through the unRAVL system. Nuanced control of performance lighting is achieved with an ETC Ion XE Console, while Pathway Connectivity supports the integration between Paradigm and Madrix.
The Blackbox Theater features an ETC Paradigm system supplemented by an Element 2 Console for one-touch presets via the unRAVL system. The esports arena uses an ETC Mosaic System with software-based controls, eliminating the need for a console. An unRAVL touchscreen is provided for common AV and lighting presets.
CHALLENGES AND SOLUTIONS
Like many large projects, the esports arena faced challenges, particularly regarding the supply chain. "We encountered standard delays, but through careful communication with manufacturers, we ensured timely delivery of materials," Dan explained. Despite these challenges, the project progressed smoothly.
THE FUTURE OF ESPORTS ARENAS
PureTek Group is already in discussions with several districts to develop similar esports arenas. This project marks their first major arena, but it signifies a growing trend in educational institutions recognizing the value of dedicated esports spaces. "The demand for esports arenas is increasing," Dan remarked. "Schools are moving beyond traditional computer labs to create professional-grade esports facilities that reflect the standards of the pro esports industry."
CONCLUSION
The esports arena at Plainfield is a testament to PureTek Group’s expertise in merging technology with engaging, entertainment spaces. The project not only provides a modern and immersive environment for students but also sets a new standard for esports facilities in educational institutions. With the increasing recognition of esports, this arena represents a significant step forward in integrating gaming into the educational landscape.
That same year, in 1999, I also told my son that I was a great judge of character, and Eminem would either be dead or in jail within five years.
Eminem’s 14th album is set to release in July. As if to mock me, the title of the album is “The Death of Slim Shady.”
LUMINAIRE SCHEDULE
• Acolyte Pixel RibbonLyte for strip lighting in auditorium and esports
• Altman Spectra Cyc (cyclorama lighting)
• Chauvet Rogue R2X Wash Mover
• Chauvet Rogue R1X Spot Mover w/ custom gobo of Plainfield logo
• Chauvet Maverick Force Moving Spot w/ custom gobo of Plainfield logo
• Chauvet Ovation 605FC (RGBW orchestra lighting)
• ETC ColorSource PARs
• HiLumx Retrofits for house lights in auditorium
• Sylvania/LEDVANCE work lights
• Tempo aisle lighting
• Lithonia LDN6 Downlight for Blackbox house lighting
• Elektralite Stingray Spot
• LVS Inverters for emergency lighting system
