New Jersey’s Division of Gaming Enforcement (DGE) granted Esports Entertainment a transactional waiver permitting it to accept and process wagers. With this in hand, the group has become the first esports-focused betting operator in the state.

Following a five-day “soft play” period, the group will launch its VIE.gg esports wagering platform. During this time, certain limitations are applied to guarantee compliance with regulations.

Grant Johnson, Esports Entertainment’s CEO, was excited about his company going live in New Jersey. He commented: “We couldn’t be more pleased to be the first esports-dedicated operator to be granted the right to commence business in New Jersey.

“On behalf of our entire team, I would like to thank the Division of Gaming Enforcement for their approval of our platform and the trust they have placed in our company.”

For esports fans in New Jersey, the group’s approval will allow them to bet on their favourite teams in real-time as part of, what Esports Entertainment calls, “a seamless and immersive experience.”

Via VIE.gg, bettors can place wagers on a variety of games, including Call of Duty, CS: GO, League of Legends and DOTA 2.

Johnson commented on esports wagering and its future, adding: “Global esports betting is estimated to exceed $205bn by 2027, and we are thrilled to be playing such an important role in this fast-growing market with the launch of our first esports wagering offering in the United States.”