'I created it to connect people to gaming' — Founder Clinton Sparks talks about Video Gaming collide at Vegas Launch of new Global Gaming League 

The new Global Gaming League (GGL) launch that took place in Las Vegas earlier this month, with its inaugural "EVERYBODY GAMES" event, is looking to set a new standard in the fusion of gaming, entertainment, and culture. Held at the HyperX Arena in Las Vegas, the event brought together a host of celebrities, influencers, and gaming enthusiasts who believe it's time for a slew of new esports-type competitions that will synergize various entertainment media that resonate with fans of all ages.

Founded by Clinton Sparks, a Grammy-nominated DJ, producer, and entrepreneur who also has experience in esports —having been in the c-suite with FaZe Clan and a VP with XSET— he will look to create that intersection between the two genres to "revolutionize the gaming industry." The "EVERYBODY GAMES" event served as a bold introduction to this mission, showcasing the league's unique approach to uniting diverse communities through the power of gaming.

Sparks talked to Sportskeeda Gaming about how video games can transcend different mediums in bringing people together.

“Even though gaming is the fastest growing form of entertainment in the world, it is still disconnected from pop culture, mainstream, and the streets, I created the Global Gaming League to not only connect these people to gaming, but also to help uplift the entire gaming industry for gamers, brands, publishers, investors, and those who have yet to get familiar with the value and benefits that come with gaming.”

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Soulja Boy performs in halftime show at GGL

As guests arrived at the HyperX Arena, the red carpet quickly became a star-studded affair. Celebrities from across the entertainment spectrum mingled with gaming icons, creating an atmosphere that set the tone for the evening.

Among the notable attendees were rapper and entrepreneur Soulja Boy, a longtime advocate for gaming culture, seven-time Mr. Olympia winner Flex Lewis, Drybar founder and Shark Tank investor Alli Webb, Olympic gold medalist LaShawn Merritt, music icons T-Pain and Jermaine Dupri, and social media stars Bryce Hall, Tommy Unold, Kanel Joseph, and others.

The mix of personalities seemingly highlighted the potential of the wide-reaching influence and appeal that GGL could bring to a diverse audience.

Nick Cannon and Soulja Boy on the red carpet of GGL (Image via Sportskeeda)

The halftime show featured a live performance by Soulja Boy that resonated with fans as he went through some of his old favorites such as Crank That. The high-energy set yet again underscored GGL's plans to invite prominent figures from the music industry to partake in this endeavor.

The guest list for "EVERYBODY GAMES" was no joke, drawing a mix of celebrities, influencers, athletes, and gaming fans. From Soulja Boy and Alli Webb to LaShawn Merritt and podcast sensation Sean Mike Kelly, the occasion brought together a dynamic array of talent, all united by GGL. This eclectic gathering highlighted GGL’s mission to bridge different cultures and communities through the universal appeal of gaming.

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Global Gaming League showcases its competitive format

Inside the arena, the excitement was palpable as the audience—comprised of gaming enthusiasts, influencers, and media personalities—was shown an almost ready-for-TV game-show-type gaming competition. The teams would be competing in all four titles, in a bracket-type format, that would ultimately produce a winner--the squad that won the most individual competitions.

Songwriter Hall of Fame inductee Jermaine Dupri kicked off the competition with a speech and spoke about the transformative power of gaming as a cultural force. Afterward, FNK Studios launched a Paris fashion runway-style show to introduce GGL’s fashion approach to its new gaming apparel line.

When it was time for the main event, Nick Cannon took the stage and oversaw the competition that featured matchups in NBA 2K, Tekken, Tetris, and Call of Duty.

T-Pain, who will own one of the teams, and for this event named his squad, Nappy Boy Gaming, had a good night. The team play played well and eventually secured victory, with member DanRue earning the coveted MVP title.

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GGL's success will depend on whether or not it can be authentic in blending gaming, fashion, music, sports, and culture, into something people recognize. If done right, the league could offer an experience that celebrates diversity, creativity, and competition, blossoming into an event here in North America that could jump-start the competitive gaming scene once again.