As evidence of the growing prominence of eSports, Virgin Media in the UK has added Ginx TV to its electronic programme guide (EPG), bringing a slate of 12 dedicated gaming shows to viewers.
Ginx TV appears on channel 286 and has already been available in countries such as Poland, the Netherlands, Romania, Croatia and across the Middle East. The channel is professionally localized in over 40 territories and broadcasts in nine different languages, underscoring its international reach.
Interestingly, Ginx TV originated in the UK, although it has only recently become available there. This delayed domestic launch likely reflects the more complex legal and licensing requirements in the channel’s home market.
The channel’s lineup includes a variety of gaming-focused programmes, such as The Blurb (hosted by Lucy James), Planet of the Apps and Ginx TV Vault, which focuses on retro gaming and classic titles.
For readers unfamiliar with the term, eSports refers to competitive video gaming. It attracts people who prefer virtual competition to traditional physical sports—individuals who can spend hours honing their skills and competing online or at live events.
Several games have gained recognition as legitimate competitive pursuits, with titles like StarCraft and Call of Duty emerging as prominent examples. Competitive gaming often requires intensive practice and strategic development, sometimes taking players years to reach the highest levels.
South Korea is particularly notable for producing world-class StarCraft competitors. There, professional players often train in highly structured environments; some even live and practice together in rigorous training programs commonly referred to as “boot camps.”
“We’re pleased to be the first in the UK to launch Ginx TV. Gaming is an important part of life for many of our superfast broadband and TV customers, so we’re sure that Ginx TV will go down a storm — it’s great to get quality video game shows back on the TV schedule,” said Nick Forward, director of TV at Virgin Media.
The UK ranks among the top gaming markets globally, and surveys indicate that roughly one in three people identify as gamers, highlighting the sector’s cultural and economic significance.
What do you think about eSports and Virgin Media’s launch of Ginx TV?