ESL developers are preparing to integrate Wargaming.net’s latest technological development, Battle API (Application Programming Interface), into their online ESL Play platform. As the world’s largest esports company, this is set to significantly improve the esports experience for World of Tanks players from all around the globe. Since ESL and Wargaming.net partnered in 2011, ESL World of Tanks players have secured themselves well over one million dollars in prize money. Battle API integration represents just the latest step the two companies have taken towards paving the way to a higher standard of esports events and user experience worldwide.

ESL will be the first external company to integrate Battle API into their leagues and competitions. Once integrated players will also be able to earn themselves in-game credits and battle experience when taking part in both online and offline competition. This is due to the integrated Battle API negating the need for ‘Training Room’ use.

“Esports is all about collaboration, no matter if you’re part of the pro scene, a developer, in production, or a viewer at home,” said Mohamed Fadl, esports Director of Europe and North America. “This is never truer than when we talk about moving esports to the next frontier. That’s why the Battle API is the next step forward for us. We’re building stronger foundations across the globe to help every journey into the esports world as easy and accessible as possible. In 2015, the API along with several other important features developed in cooperation with pro teams and partners will be crucial to one of our key goals—bringing 3rd party tournaments to a whole new level and attracting a wider audience to the esports scene.”

The Battle API will be built into the World of Tanks game itself and will communicate with the ESL Play platform to automise actions such as in game invites, score postings and bracket updates. This form of game integration also allows for a more meaningful post-match analysis with statistics such as the number of shells shot, shot accuracy and amount of damage dealt available for use just moments after a game is over.

“We’re very excited to begin testing in March and plan to have the system up and running by mid-April,” said Steven Neale, Product Manager at ESL. “Battle API integration means players can worry less about bureaucracy and focus more on enjoying World of Tanks and esport competition. It also improves the level of commentary and analysis that we are able to provide in our professional broadcasts. That’s what we’re after: a better experience for all.”