Esports associations in Germany and Austria: A comparative study of community satisfaction

Research has examined perceptions of esports regulation and institutionalization; however, little is known about Community Satisfaction (CS) with these newly established organizations, particularly in a cross-country context. This article examines the esports community's satisfaction with national esports associations in Germany and Austria. Germany's Esport-Bund Deutschland (ESBD) and Austria's Esport Verband Österreich (ESVÖ) serve as suitable cases due to their similar structures but differing sizes and operational histories. Using a two-fold approach, 22 expert interviews (14 from Germany, 8 from Austria) were conducted focusing on esports development and the current landscape (Study 1). Interview insights informed an online questionnaire that gathered 425 responses from esports communities in both countries (Study 2). Findings indicate global growth, increased acceptance, and professionalization of esports in both countries. Respondents perceived minimal influence from the ESBD, while the ESVÖ was viewed as a political interface with limited impact. Austrian participants reported greater Identification and Satisfaction with their association. However, perceived Belonging and Benefit showed no significant differences between the countries. Esports club membership was a key factor of overall satisfaction, as well as residence. Predictors such as age, gender, and hours per week playing did not consistently show significant effects. In general, awareness of the associations correlated with a stronger sense of Belonging among all community members. Despite the potential of associations to shape the future of esports, there is a noticeable gap in CS between them. To address this, associations should focus on increasing their visibility and creating incentives for individuals to become members.