ELO Launches to Empower Gaming Communities and Bridge Creators

ELO, a new community building studio based in London, has officially launched with a mission to put gaming communities at the heart of video game development and marketing. Founded by esports and gaming veterans Roald van Buuren and Wouter Sleijffers, ELO aims to bridge the gap between game creators and players by focusing on the out-of-game experience that surrounds gameplay.

In today's fast-paced gaming industry, studios often prioritize game development over community engagement, which can lead to missed opportunities for sustained player involvement. ELO addresses this by working directly with developers and publishers to design and execute community-focused go-to-market strategies that extend a game's lifecycle and deepen player loyalty.

ELO is built on three core principles: serving game studios, creating original community intellectual property, and investing in tech projects that empower gamers. Their #PowerToTheGamer campaign underscores their belief that communities are not just consumers but active participants and co-creators in the gaming ecosystem.

The founders emphasize that games have evolved into modern social hubs—town squares where friendships form and cultures emerge. Yet, community building is often an afterthought, relegated to the margins instead of being a foundational element. ELO’s approach ensures that community engagement is integrated from early development stages through long-term marketing efforts.

By focusing on 'community orchestrated experiences,' ELO collaborates with studios, brands, and investors to enhance the out-of-game experience through storytelling, creativity, competition, and rewards. This holistic approach helps studios maintain player interest and build vibrant, engaged communities that contribute to a game's ongoing success.

ELO’s name references the ELO ranking system, symbolizing their belief that community empowerment and growth cannot be rushed or bought—they must be earned through meaningful participation and innovation. The studio currently operates with a small, expert team in London and Doha, collaborating widely to co-create and invest in projects aligned with their mission.

ELO’s founders recognize the challenges studios face, including investor pressures and resource constraints, which often push community engagement to the sidelines. Their solution is to provide dedicated expertise and support so studios can prioritize community without sacrificing focus on game development.

Ultimately, ELO is not just offering a service but championing a cultural shift in gaming. By empowering communities as co-creators and stakeholders, they aim to build positive, lasting spaces that enrich the gaming experience for players and developers alike.