Gaming chat service Discord has announced that it has opened up its verified server scheme to esports teams and organisations.

The company says that it has more than 20 teams on its service already, including Team Liquid and some of the teams from the Overwatch League, as well as Counter-Strike and League of Legends teams.

That's on top of pro-gaming organisation Dreamhack.

The firm says that this is a better way for esports organisations to connect with their fans.

Verified servers are ones that have been checked by Discord to make sure they are what they say they are - simple.

"When it came to making a decision on what social communication tools to use for community, Discord was the obvious choice. It's where all the gamers are," Team Liquid co-CEO Steve Arhancet said.

"And, it is the only social messaging app that allows for a real-time back-and-forth between the teams and the fans. Our Discord server is the official hub for Liquid fans, players, and staff; and host to our pro team events. The verified check lets fans know they are in the right place.”

Discord revealed in February that it had 90m users, up from the 87m it announced at the end of 2017 which itself had doubled in the prior six months.