D|XP Coming To Disney XD Including The IGN Show

In making the announcement, Marc Buhaj, senior vice president, Programming and general manager, Disney XD, said, “Gaming is a lifestyle for our audience. This summer, we’re collaborating with leading creative partners in the industry to deliver original programming, access to some of the biggest esports tournaments and leagues, and entry to key gaming-related events. D|XP will showcase diverse storytelling across the video game landscape, and celebrate gaming culture and community.”

D|XP will feature original programming produced by Disney Digital Network via its gaming editorial voice Polaris and Digomind Productions including “Polaris Primetime,” a weekly one-hour playthrough gaming and variety show hosted by top personalities in the entertainment gaming world, Jimmy Wong of Rocketjump and Strawburry17 (Meghan Camarena), with scripted comedy, skits and guest appearances by gaming personalities including MatPat, Joey Graceffa and sWooZie highlighting a variety of video game genres. Also from Disney Digital Network and Digomind Productions is “Parker Plays” hosted by Parker Coppins, star of the popular YouTube gaming channel ParkerGames. This daily half-hour series will feature comedic gameplay commentary on a variety of games. Other popular gaming personalities will be featured in “Polaris: Player Select,” a “greatest hits” compilation series featuring top videos from YouTube stars from Disney Digital Network’s bench of Maker creators, including Jacksepticeye, Luzugames, Strawburry17, LordMinion777 and LDShadowLady. Polaris’ digital channels will also spotlight clips from “Polaris Primetime,” “Parker Plays” and “Polaris: Player Select.”

Waypoint, VICE’s home for video game coverage, will examine how and why gamers play, focusing on the people, passion and politics of gaming. “Waypoint Presents” will cover the most important stories in gaming through in-depth profiles on key players in the gaming industry, behind-the-scenes looks at the creation of games, deep dives exploring the competitive gaming world, and intimate profiles of the people whose lives have been impacted by gaming.

Other programming includes: ESPN Esports programming that will provide front row access to major esports events; “The IGN Show” – a daily show from IGN Entertainment hosted by Alanah Pearce (Charalanahzard), Naomi Kyle and team that delivers exclusive new game footage, expert gaming tips, and prime coverage from the biggest gaming and pop culture events, executive produced by Wade Beckett and Blair Herter; “The Attack” – a daily variety show with hosts Alex Corea and Erin Steeby, delivering a unique blend of sketch and commentary, executive produced by Kevin Pereira; Banger Films’ coverage of Nintendo’s E3 Splatoon, Arms and Pokkén tournaments, original comedy-driven gaming co-productions with Blue Ribbon Content; and series from ESL including speedrunning and another where professional gamers and amateurs compete against one another.

It’s interesting to see Disney XD announcing a deal with IGN and also including its content from Maker Studios, plus supporting eSports.  Gaming is getting bigger and becoming mainstream, Disney want to be involved in this, especially as the younger generation watch more YouTube than traditional TV, so it makes sense for Disney to promote different content.  Is Disney XD the best location for it?  I’m not sure, with the channel being aimed at boys between 6 and 11, games are a major factor, but with the time these shows will be airing, does seem to be going to adults and teenagers as well.

Personally I’d love to see more gaming on traditional TV, it is very frustrating to see mainstream media ignore gaming, though I’m hoping the IGN show comes to YouTube as well, since that’s how I usually consume my gaming content.

What do you think of this announement?