Video Games Could Hit the Airwaves Once More With VENN
Robert Workman
It’s been several years since gaming had its own devoted channel, with G4 going the way of the dodo, but not before providing unique programming like X-Play. But if Ariel Horn and Ben Kusin have their way, games could very well be the focus of on-air programming yet again.
The duo serves as co-CEOs on a new venture called the Video Game Entertainment & News Network, or VENN for short. Their goal is to introduce the programming-based channel sometime next year, with studios that are based in both Los Angeles and New York.
The company noted that “VENN was created as a unique media brand to unite a fragmented media marketplace. Its content will span multiple categories of entertainment, with original programming produced both in-house and with some of the biggest names and creators in gaming, entertainment, streaming, and esports.”
Horn is capable of bringing games to the television medium, having worked on several televised esports events over the years. He also lent a hand in the success of League of Legends’ tournaments, with over 100 million viewers tuning in. Meanwhile, Kusin brings marketing muscle, with his time spent at Vivendi Games, and working on properties like The Sims and Medal of Honor.
Said Kusin, “Video games continue to define the culture of today’s youth. Streamers, casters, content creators, esports athletes – these are our new celebrities. VENN is giving this generation an overdue home and a heartbeat, with bi-coastal broadcast studios incorporating live audiences, premium production values, a 24/7 linear offering, and engaging and innovative formats that elevate and promote a culture traditionally overlooked by broadcast media.”
Horn chimed in, “We’ve been polishing our craft on global stages for years while dreaming up new ways to create memorable esports broadcast experiences. VENN will bring together the best and brightest talent to apply the same creativity and big-picture thinking to greater gaming and entertainment content, building a bridge from our industry into the world that surrounds it.”
The company is already looking into how it’ll be broadcasting its programming once it’s put together, with the US and Europe being key markets. That could change to a worldwide spectrum after it launches, however.
We wish the duo the best of luck. After all, if there’s something we could use right now, it’s a dose of G4-like goodness that speaks to gamers.
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