Disney XD to Roll Out Gaming Block

Disney XD is launching next month D|XP, a daily summer programming block dedicated to the world of gaming.

D|XP will kick off on Saturday, July 15, and will run from 9 p.m. to 3 a.m. D|XP will showcase games, publishers, events and prominent personalities across the gaming world, including both entertainment gaming and eSports. The TV and multiplatform destination will feature content produced in collaboration with ESPN, Disney Digital Network and its Maker creators, IGN, Attack Media, Warner Bros. Television Group’s Blue Ribbon Content, Banger Films, ESL (Electronic Sports League) and VICE’s Waypoint.

The programming block is designed to connect with gaming enthusiasts of all ages, with a core demographic of teens 13 and up. D|XP will feature original programming produced by Disney Digital Network via its gaming editorial voice Polaris and Digomind Productions, including Polaris Primetime, a weekly one-hour playthrough gaming and variety show hosted by Jimmy Wong of Rocketjump and Strawburry17 (Meghan Camarena). It will feature scripted comedy, skits and guest appearances by gaming personalities, including MatPat, Joey Graceffa and sWooZie, highlighting a range of video game genres. Also from Disney Digital Network and Digomind Productions is Parker Plays, hosted by Parker Coppins, the star of the YouTube gaming channel ParkerGames. Other popular gaming personalities will be featured in Polaris: Player Select, a “greatest hits” compilation series showcasing top videos from YouTube stars from Disney Digital Network’s Maker creators, including Jacksepticeye, Luzugames, Strawburry17, LordMinion777 and LDShadowLady. Polaris’s digital channels will also spotlight clips from Polaris Primetime, Parker Plays and Polaris: Player Select.

In addition, Waypoint, VICE’s home for video game coverage, will examine how and why gamers play, focusing on the people, passion and politics of gaming. Waypoint Presents will cover the most important stories in gaming through in-depth profiles on key players in the gaming industry, behind-the-scenes looks at the creation of games, deep dives exploring the competitive gaming world and profiles of people whose lives have been impacted by gaming.

The block will also include ESPN Esports programming that will provide front-row access to major eSports events; The IGN Show, a daily program from IGN Entertainment hosted by Alanah Pearce (Charalanahzard), Naomi Kyle and a team that delivers exclusive new game footage, expert gaming tips and prime coverage from the biggest gaming and pop-culture events; The Attack, a daily variety show with hosts Alex Corea and Erin Steeby, offering a blend of sketch and commentary; Banger Films’ coverage of Nintendo’s E3 Splatoon, Arms and Pokkén tournaments, original comedy-driven gaming co-productions with Blue Ribbon Content; and series from ESL.

Marc Buhaj, the senior VP of programming and general manager of Disney XD, said, “Gaming is a lifestyle for our audience. This summer, we’re collaborating with leading creative partners in the industry to deliver original programming, access to some of the biggest eSports tournaments and leagues, and entry to key gaming-related events. D|XP will showcase diverse storytelling across the video game landscape, and celebrate gaming culture and community.”