VENN
VENN (short for The Video Game Entertainment & News Network)[1] is an American 24/7 streaming television network based in Playa Vista, California[2]. It features gaming and pop-culture content geared towards Millennial and Generation Z audiences.[3][4]
VENN | |
---|---|
Launched | August 5, 2020 |
Picture format | HDTV (1080p/720p 16:9) |
Language | English |
Broadcast area | Worldwide |
Headquarters | Playa Vista, California United States |
Website | www |
Streaming media | |
Twitch | watchVENN |
YouTube | VENN |
Facebook Gaming | watchVENN |
watchVENN |
History
VENN was co-founded in 2019 by former EA Brand Marketer Ben Kusin and Riot Games' former Head of Esports Content Ariel Horn.[5] The network raised $17 million in a seed funding round led by Bitkraft Esports Ventures and private investment firm Eldridge Industries.[6] VENN was officially announced in April 2020 as a gaming TV network that provides a "mix of gaming, news, entertainment, and music, as well as original series featuring creators and influencers."[7] The network built a studio in Playa Vista, California with another one being built in New York City.[8] However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the construction and opening of the New York studio has been delayed indefinitely.[9] The New York studio will be located inside 3 World Trade Center.[10]
A beta version of VENN was launched in July 2020. It featured over 30+ hours of new content weekly, and was available on Twitch and YouTube.[11]
VENN officially launched on August 5, 2020.[12] The network is broadcast on Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Gaming, and Twitter. The network also plans to broadcast on Xumo, Vizio Smart Cast, and Stirr in the future.[13]
Programming
Current shows[14]
- The Download - Daily news that deep dives into gaming, pop culture, tech and more.
- Dare Package - A game show where 8 contestants receive a drop filled with wild, disgusting, brain-melting, and hilarious challenges that push them beyond their physical, mental, social and competitive skill limits... until only one is left standing. Hosted by Twitch streamer AustinShow.
- Guest House - A two hour live streaming show that welcomes creators, rising stars, and the biggest personalities to play games, create, chat, and interact with the VENN community. Hosted by Chrissy Costanza.
- Looking for Gains - A live and interactive fitness and lifestyle series for gamers who want to level-up their lives. Hosted by YouTuber CashNasty.
- VENN Arcade Live - A daily variety show celebrating the latest in video games, music, and pop culture trends. Hosted by dGon, Tehya, Emily Mei, Dash, and Raynday.
- The Sushi Dragon show - A variety show hosted by Twitch streamer TheSushiDragon,
- Grey Area - A talk show that answers all of life and love’s burning questions. Hosted by Sasha Grey and Dumbfoundead.
References
- Snider, Mike. "Video game TV network VENN launches 24/7 coverage of esports, pop culture and technology". USA Today. Retrieved 5 August 2020.
- Goldsmith, Jill. "Gaming Network VENN Sets July Launch From Playa Vista Studio; Kroenke Sports Is New Backer". Deadline. Retrieved 9 April 2020.
- Takahashi, Dean. "VENN unveils 20 hours of weekly video game programming for broadcast TV". Venture Beat. Retrieved 9 July 2020.
- Oscar, Zach. "What VENN Launch Means For Gamers And Advertisers". MediaPost. Retrieved 28 July 2020.
- Wolf, Jacob. "New esports network VENN to launch in 2020". ESPN. Retrieved 17 September 2019.
- Perez, Matt. "Video Game Network Launches With $17 Million In Funding And Backing Of Riot, Twitch And Blizzard Cofounders". Forbes. Retrieved 17 September 2019.
- Henry, Jasmine. "New Gaming TV Network VENN Announced". Game Rant. Retrieved 13 April 2020.
- Zeitchik, Steven. "Network seeks to become MTV for the gamer generation". Washington Post. Retrieved 17 September 2019.
- Dachman, Jason. "Inside the Launch of VENN 24/7 Gaming-Lifestyle Network in the Midst of the Pandemic". Sports Video Group. Retrieved 5 August 2020.
- Novy-Williams, Eben. "The Would-Be MTV of Esports Hastens Launch During Lockdown". Bloomberg. Retrieved 9 April 2020.
- Lee, Wendy; Sakoui, Anousha. "Hollywood has few jobs, but these companies are hiring workers idled by the coronavirus". Los Angeles Times. Retrieved 11 April 2020.
- Browne, Ryan. "TECH A new TV network aims to lure a generation brought up on video games in the coronavirus era". CNBC. Retrieved 5 August 2020.
- Spangler, Todd. "Gaming TV Network VENN Lines Up Distribution Partners for August Launch". Variety. Retrieved 23 July 2020.
- "SHOWS". VENN. Retrieved 8 August 2020.