Falcons' Strategic Move: Acquiring Apex Legends Powerhouse DarkZero

Key Takeaways

• Falcons, backed by Saudi investment, secures the Apex Legends team DarkZero, including esports stars Genburten, Zer0, and ImperialHal.
• The acquisition comes ahead of ALGS NA Split Two and the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
• DarkZero announces the departure of substitute Sikezz, coach zz, and analyst Privacy as it reassesses its Apex Legends engagement.
• This move by Falcons is part of a broader strategy to establish a significant presence in the esports scene ahead of the Esports World Cup.

In a move that's sent shockwaves through the esports community, the Saudi-backed organization Falcons has announced its acquisition of the high-profile Apex Legends team DarkZero. This strategic acquisition not only adds a superstar squad to Falcons' roster but also strengthens its position in the competitive Apex Legends scene.

A Strategic Acquisition Ahead of Major Events

The announcement, made on X on May 28, comes at a critical time, just days before the ALGS NA Split Two and, more importantly, two months prior to the S-tier LAN at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The newly formed team, featuring Australian duo Genburten and Zer0 along with TSM’s ImperialHal, is set to make its debut under the Falcons banner, showcasing the black-and-green colors in upcoming competitions.

DarkZero's New Chapter

Following the acquisition, DarkZero has released substitute Sikezz, coach zz, and analyst Privacy, signaling a significant shift in the organization's strategy towards Apex Legends. The heartfelt departure message for Zer0 and Genburten underscores the impact both players had on DarkZero, marking the end of an era and the beginning of a new chapter for both the players and the organization.

Falcons' Esports Ambitions

Falcons, representing Saudi Arabian interests, has been actively expanding its footprint in the esports world, showing keen interest in multiple top esports titles, including Counter-Strike 2 and Dota 2. This move ahead of the Esports World Cup on home soil later this year highlights the organization's ambition to become a dominant force in the global esports landscape.

The Debate Around Sportswashing

The acquisition by Falcons, an organization with speculated ties to the Saudi royal family, has reignited discussions about "sportswashing" – the practice of using sports investments to improve a country's or organization's image. While Falcons' backers have not been formally disclosed, the organization's aggressive expansion into esports has raised questions and debates within the gaming community.

Looking Ahead

Falcons Apex is poised to make a strong debut on June 1 at ALGS Split Two, with eyes set on a commanding performance at the Esports World Cup in Riyadh in July. As the team gears up for these major events, the esports world watches closely to see how this strategic move by Falcons will reshape the competitive landscape of Apex Legends.

The acquisition signifies more than just a change of jerseys for Genburten, Zer0, and ImperialHal; it marks a pivotal moment in esports, where strategic investments and talent acquisitions are increasingly shaping the future of competitive gaming. As Falcons embarks on this new journey with its star-studded Apex Legends team, the esports community eagerly anticipates the impact this will have on the global stage.