When the Premier League returns on Sky Sports on June 17, in-game crowd noises and catch-up options will be included for viewers.
Sky Sports has partnered with EA Sports FIFA to provide services for the games, which means that they have worked together to make "a range of bespoke and team-specific crowd noises and chants to bring the vibrant atmosphere of the Premier League to the restart." This is based on the work EA has done recording various stadiums sounds to create more immersive expeirences in the FIFA series. If the viewers don't want the stadium noise, they can choose to play noise-less as well and just listen to the play-by-play and the players in an empty arena.
"With live sport on hold for over two months, we've spent a lot of time thinking about how we broadcast in new ways to bring fans together, even if they can't meet up to watch the match", Sky Sports managing director Robert Webster said. "Sky has always been a leader in innovative sports broadcasting, and we're excited by this opportunity to share something really special with the whole nation. We want Sky Sports viewers to still feel it all and have the best possible viewing experience - even if they can't be in the stadiums or watch with their family and friends."
Viewers will be also able to watch "key highlights" of matches while they are live, as there will be a live timeline that will allow viewers to catch up on highlights at any point during a match. It doesn't matter if you just start watching or if you have been watching from the beginning, as anyone will be able to use this feature.
If you're looking forward to the Premier League returning to action and happen to be a Brit, catch it on Sky Sports on June 17. 25 out of the 64 games will be available 'free to air' Pick channel, which means that you can watch Everton vs Liverpool for free on the first weekend back.
What do you think of this news? Do you think this is a good solution for the current times we live in? Do you have any alternative ideas? Let us know in the comments!
