Nerd Street Gamers to Build More Esports Venues

Esports infrastructure venue Nerd Street Gamers has partnered with architecture firm Populous to design new esports venues across the U.S. Populous will build new Localhosts, which are public esports facilities owned by Nerd Street that welcome gamers of all skill levels.

Populous has previously helped design esports arenas such as Fusion Arena in Philadelphia, which will host Overwatch League matches in 2021, as well as Esports Stadium Arlington, the largest dedicated-esports venue in North America. The company will assist Nerd Street in building more than 100 Localhosts over the next five years. Some of those gaming venues will be connected to Five Below retail stores as part of the retail chain’s earlier investment in Nerd Street Gamers. 

“Esports and the gaming culture is growing exponentially and the industry needs purpose-built venues that match the passion and commitment of its fans and players,” Brian Mirakian, senior principal at Populous, said in a press release. “We’re eager to usher in a new era of esports with Nerd Street Gamers, one that builds transformative entertainment experiences that engage and excite gamers across the country.”

Nerd Street is also funded by SeventySix Capital, whose partners include former MLB All-Star Ryan Howard and former NFL running back Brian Westbrook. Last year, Nerd Street’s Denver-based Localhost venue played host to a National Championship Series for youth esports players. The company also recently partnered with high school esports organizer PlayVS.