June 5, 2025
The role of an observer in esports tournaments is often overlooked, despite the fact that observers are a crucial part of a well-produced broadcast. Without a good observer, we would miss out on all the most important parts of the game. Observers are typically called upon for specific events, which often involve a lot of traveling. Our own Heather ‘sapphiRe’ Garozzo reflected on some of the challenges she had to face while observing.
The role of an observer
Here’s how sapphiRe describes her role as an observer, as well as some challenges she had to face while observing.
“The observer is essentially the in-game camera operator for esports. Instead of a physical camera, observers operate virtual cameras in the game to show off the best in-game action. An observer’s work often accounts for nearly 80% or more of an esports broadcast. However, most of the audience doesn’t know the observers exist.
The biggest challenge of working as an observer is the high-stakes environment. If we miss an important moment, hundreds of thousands of viewers also miss that moment. For games where a replay client doesn’t exist, that moment could be lost forever. You could have the best players in the world, but if the observer fails to show off their skills, what should have been a thrilling match could instead be a dud.”
The challenges
Observing requires extensive travel around the world. And while this is an amazing opportunity, it can be very taxing, especially since observing is such a high-stakes job. Here’s what sapphiRe highlighted as some of the biggest challenges of traveling as an observer:
“Long days, long travel, and living out of a suitcase are what can be some of the hardest non-game related challenges. Oh, and the fact that I’m running Raidiant simultaneously!
However, I couldn’t trade it for the world. I get to meet fans from all over the globe, I get to learn about esports production from best-in-class teams, and take back all I’ve learned to our Raidiant team to continue to level-up what we do.”
The esports space, especially competitive gaming, is still a male-dominated space. SapphiRe, an industry veteran, had the opportunity to see how the esports space slowly evolved over time. She says, “Years ago, there were more barriers, but I’ve witnessed significant improvement over the years”.
However, some challenges still exist for marginalized genders in the esports space. Some of them are more unique than others, for instance:
“I think the most unique challenge is just the shock that fans often have when finding out what (others consider to be) one of the top observers in the world happens to be a woman.”
Overcoming challenges is rarely an easy feat. Especially when trying to “level the playing field” for women in esports.
“I’ve certainly had to work a little harder to ‘prove myself’ over the years to be more validated by my peers and by fans.”
Highlights of sapphiRe’s observing career so far
Of course, the job of an observer is not always a challenge. More often than not, this important role offers many amazing moments. Here’s what sapphiRe would highlight as some of the best moments of her observing career:
“Knowing that I was responsible for showing off a historic esports moment to millions of fans can feel incredibly rewarding.
Events like the VCT Champs Los Angeles, in front of my home crowd, ELEAGUE’s Boston Major, and Cloud9’s historic win or the incredible fanbases of Tokyo and Brazil – I’ve been able to travel the world and be part of gaming history.”
And while we talked about all the challenges that come with the role of an observer, especially as a woman, the positive sides outshine the negative ones:
“Absolutely. A lot of the cons mostly exist in the virtual space, where people can be rude and make you feel like you don’t belong. However, in-person, everyone I’ve met has been a part of my life’s story, and I am so blessed to have broadened my horizons and met new cultures because of my observing career.”
To wrap it up, sapphiRe offered advice for those who want to follow in her footsteps:
“Find ways to define yourself. Find ways to stand out. There are countless aspiring observers, and the job market can be tough.
Lastly, understand that you belong and you have a place in esports. Even if observing doesn’t end up being your ‘fit’, there are plenty of other ways to contribute to making incredible esports productions.”
Thank you, SapphiRe, for the always valuable insights and advice!