ITV

Category: Gaming

  • Delta Corp to merge subsidiary Deltatech Gaming with Head Digital Works

    Delta Corp to merge subsidiary Deltatech Gaming with Head Digital Works

    MUMBAI: The casual dating is resulting in wedding wows. Delta Corp Ltd, India’s leading listed casino and gaming company, has agreed  with Head Digital Works Pvt  Ltd (Head Digital) for the acquisition of Deltatech Gaming Ltd (DGL), which operates the online poker platform Adda52, by Head Digital, which runs the online rummy and poker platform A23. 

    The transaction, valued at approximately Rs 491 crore, will take place in two phases: an initial acquisition of a 51 per cent  stake in DGL by Head Digital, followed by a merger of DGL with Head Digital.

    Upon completion of the merger, Delta Corp will hold a 5.7 per cent  stake in Head Digital. Adda52 is among India’s oldest online poker platforms, while Head Digital, a pioneer in online gaming, operates A23 Rummy, one of India’s largest real-money rummy platforms with over 75 million users.

    Delta Corp managing director Ashish Kapadia commented: “We are excited about this journey with Deepak and his team, whose leadership has been instrumental in shaping India’s online rummy market. We believe this transaction will strengthen Adda52’s leading position in the online poker sector.”

    Head Digital founder and chief executive officer Deepak Gullapalli said: “Head Digital is a pioneer in India’s online gaming industry, and we are thrilled to collaborate with one of the country’s most recognised poker brands, Adda52. This deal will enhance our poker business and help us build a leading diversified card gaming platform.”

    The acquisition of 51 per cent  of DGL by Head Digital is expected to be completed by 6 April 2025, at which point DGL will cease to be a subsidiary of Delta Corp. The subsequent merger of DGL with Head Digital is subject to approvals from the shareholders of both companies and the National Company Law Tribunal and is expected to be finalised by 30 June 2026.

    The transaction assigns an enterprise value of approximately Rs 491.26 crore to DGL. Head Digital’s 51 per cent  stake in DGL will be acquired through a combination of primary subscription and secondary acquisition from Delta Corp, for a total cash consideration of Rs 34.8 crore and an equity swap in Head Digital. Delta Corp is set to acquire approximately 2.8 per cent  of Head Digital’s shareholding by 6 April 2025, increasing to 5.7 per cent upon completion of the merger.

    For the financial year ending 31 March 2024, on a standalone basis, DGL reported revenue of Rs 92.93 crore, contributing 13.77 per cent  of Delta Corp’s total income. On a consolidated basis, its revenue stood at Rs 92.93 crore, representing 9.46 per cent  of Delta Corp’s total income. The company’s net worth stood at Rs -3.48 crore.

    Head Digital reported an annual turnover of Rs 841.39 crore in FY 2023-24, with a net worth of Rs 880.99 crore. In the previous financial years, its turnover was Rs 839.13 crore in FY 2022-23 and Rs 721.89 crore in FY 2021-22.

    The transaction is subject to customary conditions, including shareholder approvals. Delta Corp and Head Digital have provided mutual representations, warranties, and indemnities within agreed financial caps. Delta Corp has also agreed to a five-year non-compete and non-solicitation clause following Head Digital’s acquisition of the 51 per cent  stake in DGL. As a minority shareholder in Head Digital, Delta Corp will be subject to restrictions on dealing with its shares and will receive customary minority shareholder rights.

    Indium Capital Advisors acted as the exclusive investment banking advisor, with legal counsel provided by AZB & Partners for Delta Corp and Spice Route Legal for Head Digital.

  • ‘Zupee Ludo Fest’ is Set to Transform Kolkata into a Gaming Hotspot

    ‘Zupee Ludo Fest’ is Set to Transform Kolkata into a Gaming Hotspot

    Kolkata : Zupee, India’s leading skill-based gaming platform launched a week-long gaming festival – Ludo Fest on Monday, 10th February. Zupee Ludo Fest is a series of engaging roadshows and a grand finale event is scheduled for Saturday, 22nd February in Kolkata. Zupee will conduct mini-Ludo board games across 7 coolest spots of the city where the participants will have an opportunity to win exciting prizes including tickets to the main event. These mini games will be hosted in spots like College street; Salt Lake Sector V; Mohun Bagan/ East Bengal Club; Hogg Market; Park Street; Howrah Bridge; Prinsep Ghat.  

    The grand gaming spectacle will feature over 150 influencers, making it one of the most anticipated offline gaming events in the city.  Additionally, players will get a chance to win a range of prizes, including a grand prize bike worth INR 2 lakhs and vouchers valued at up to INR 20,000 rupees making it a total pool of over INR 6 Lakhs. Players will also compete for hourly prizes ranging from INR 1,000 to INR 10,000. Adding to the excitement, the event will be attended by a popular influencer and top 12 winners will have the unique opportunity to compete alongside a celebrity player, renowned actor Jisshu Sengupta.

    Commenting on the event, Zupee’s spokesperson said, “We are excited to host the Zupee Ludo Fest in the city of Joy and bring together the vibrant skilled gaming community in Kolkata. We look forward to seeing both seasoned players and new participants come together, compete with celebrities, showcase their skills and win amazing prizes.”

    Zupee consistently encourages responsible gaming and this Ludo fest provides an exciting, engaging, and responsible environment for its users. Therefore, whether you are a Ludo legend or just looking for some fun, join the Zupee Ludo Fest at any of the given locations.  

    About Zupee:Zupee is the largest skill-based ludo platform in India. Zupee offers ‘games of skill’ in which a player’s skill, knowledge, attention, experience and capabilities are crucial to success. Zupee’s product portfolio of skill-based board games is redefining the online real-money gaming ecosystem by providing meaningful entertainment and bringing moments of joy. Zupee seeks to offer a learning-driven gaming ecosystem in the country. Founded by IIT Kanpur graduates, Dilsher Singh Malhi and Siddhant Saurabh in 2018, Zupee is backed by marquee investors such as WestCap Group, Tomales Bay Capital, Nepean Capital, AJ Capital, Matrix Partners India, & Orios Venture Partners. Recently, Zupee was also recognized and applauded as the ‘Future Ready Organization’.  

    Zupee, a responsible gaming platform, adheres to a transparent communication policy and outlines clear guidelines on its website regarding Do’s &Dont’s. Zupee advocates for responsible gaming practices, emphasizing that gaming should be enjoyed primarily for entertainment purposes, rather than solely for monetary gains.  

    Media Contact:amrit.anand@zupee.in
     

  • India’s sports tech market to hit Rs 49,500 crore by 2029, fantasy sports growth slows

    India’s sports tech market to hit Rs 49,500 crore by 2029, fantasy sports growth slows

    MUMBAI: India’s sports technology market, currently valued at Rs 26,700 crore, is projected to grow at 13 per cent annually to reach Rs 49,500 crore by 2029, according to a new report by the Federation of Indian Fantasy Sports (FIFS) and Deloitte.

    The report, Beyond the Field: India’s Sports Tech Revolution, unveiled in New Delhi yesterday by minister of state for youth affairs and sports Raksha Khadse, reveals that fantasy sports, the largest segment, faces headwinds due to recent GST changes.

    “The fantasy sports industry has seen revenues touch Rs 9,100 crore in FY24 but is expected to decline by 10 per cent in FY25,” said FIFS director general Joy Bhattacharjya. 

    The sector’s growth forecast has been revised down to seven per cent CAGR through FY29, from an earlier projection of 30 per cent.

    “Technology is creating immersive fan experiences and opening newer business avenues,” said Deloitte India partner Prashanth Rao. However, he noted that investments in fantasy sports dropped 90 per cent in 2023, with no new investments in 2024, primarily due to GST impacts and retrospective taxation concerns.

    The report identifies three key subsectors: fan engagement, sports data and analytics, and foundational technologies. Despite current challenges, the industry’s GST contribution is expected to more than double to Rs 3,520 crore in FY24 from Rs 1,480 crore in FY23..

    The report highlights significant consumer adoption, with 89 per cent of Indian sports fans reporting that emerging technologies have enhanced their viewing experience. Between 2018 and 2023, the sector attracted cumulative investments of Rs 27,500 crore, with fantasy sports securing Rs 10,800 crore of this funding.

    India’s current one per cent share of the global sports technology market and four per cent of the APAC region suggests substantial growth potential. However, industry leaders elaborate that realising this potential requires a supportive regulatory framework, stable tax policies, and industry-wide standards for responsible gaming.
    Minister Khadse emphasised the government’s commitment to the sector, stating, “The integration of technology with sports is crucial as we enter the era of AI. Sports technology will be particularly important in analysing and developing our athletes for the future.”

    The sector is expected to create 17,500 direct and indirect new jobs by FY27, marking its growing importance in India’s digital economy.

  • BGMI’s Wow Wakao: A new era of gaming and influencer storytelling

    BGMI’s Wow Wakao: A new era of gaming and influencer storytelling

    MUMBAI: In an unprecedented collaboration, Krafton India has partnered with Collective Creative Labs, the creative division of Collective Artists Network, and Bake A Film to launch Wow Wakao, a six-episode gaming content series exclusively for Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI). This initiative marks a significant milestone in India’s gaming culture, blending immersive storytelling with influencer-driven content.

    As gaming cements its place in India’s entertainment industry, Wow Wakao introduces a fresh, engaging approach to content creation. The series stars rising content creator Naman Arora, represented by Collective Artists Network, who navigates BGMI’s new ‘Wow Mode’ in an entertaining and dynamic style. The initiative aims to set a new benchmark for gaming content in India.

    Speaking on the collaboration, Naman Arora said, “Gaming has always been my passion, and Wow Wakao is a dream come true. This series brings a new level of excitement, allowing me to showcase BGMI’s Wow Mode in a fun and engaging way for fans. I can’t wait for everyone to experience it!”

    Krafton India associate director of marketing Srinjoy Das added, “BGMI has always led the way in innovative gameplay experiences, and Wow Wakao aligns perfectly with our vision of engaging and entertaining our community. By collaborating with Naman Arora and our talented content partners, we aim to make gaming content more immersive and accessible.”

    Collective Creative Labs chief creative officer Dhruv Sheth noted, “BGMI consistently pushes the boundaries of gameplay innovation. We are thrilled to collaborate on Wow Wakao, which leverages trending content, influencer engagement, and the diversity of WOW Mode to connect with audiences in a relatable and entertaining manner.”

    Bake A Film co-founder Mrinal Chawla highlighted, “By tapping into current trends, Naman Arora’s popularity, and the diverse offerings of WOW Mode, we have crafted Wow Wakao! This series places BGMI’s Wow Mode front and centre, reaching audiences through trending social media personalities and engaging storytelling.”

    Creative director Parikshit Singh added, ‘We set out to create an engaging series that captures the madness of WOW Mode. Thanks to the combined efforts of all teams and Naman Arora’s hilarious performance, the final product matches the vision we had when it was just a concept.’

    With digital entertainment evolving rapidly, gaming has emerged as a dominant force. Wow Wakao aims to captivate a new generation of gamers and content enthusiasts, reinforcing Krafton’s commitment to innovative storytelling. The series will be available for streaming on YouTube and Instagram from 11th February 2025, delivering a thrilling mix of action, entertainment, and influencer-driven narratives.

  • Madhya Pradesh unveils AVGC-XR policy to boost jobs and investment

    Madhya Pradesh unveils AVGC-XR policy to boost jobs and investment

    MUMBAI: Madhya Pradesh (MP) is making a power move in the world of animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality (AVGC-XR), unveiling a bold policy aimed at transforming the state into a digital media powerhouse. With the AVGC-XR sector projected to grow at 14-16 per cent annually, the state government is eyeing a significant slice of this booming industry, setting ambitious targets of Rs 10,000 crore in investments, 50,000 new jobs, and 150 start-ups by 2029.

    The Madhya Pradesh AVGC-XR Policy 2024 is designed to not only position the state as an industry leader but also to boost local talent, attract global players, and accelerate innovation. The government has earmarked Rs 500 crore in financial incentives, offering substantial reimbursements on production costs, training subsidies, and infrastructure development grants. Companies setting up AVGC-XR studios in the state can avail up to 35 per cent reimbursement on eligible production expenses, capped at Rs two crore per project, making MP one of the most attractive destinations for digital content creation in India.

    The policy also focuses on infrastructure expansion, with plans to establish two centres of excellence (CoEs) in Indore and Bhopal, dedicated AVGC-XR labs in schools and universities, and India’s first Animation Theme Park to create an immersive learning and entertainment ecosystem. The state is also investing heavily in workforce development, offering up to 50 per cent reimbursement on AVGC-XR training fees, with additional incentives for women entrepreneurs and underprivileged students entering the sector. By 2029, MP aims to train at least one lakh skilled professionals in AVGC-XR disciplines, addressing both local employment needs and global industry demand.

    Government officials are confident that the policy will be a game-changer for the state’s economy. A senior official from the Madhya Pradesh industrial development Corporation stated that the AVGC-XR policy is expected to contribute at least Rs 3,000 crore annually to the state’s GDP, with exports from the sector projected to reach Rs 2,500 crore in the next five years. He further emphasised that the initiative is not just about entertainment but also about positioning MP as a hub for ed-tech, defence simulations, medical imaging, and virtual reality training modules, expanding the scope of AVGC-XR beyond gaming and film.

    The policy also includes provisions for international collaborations, offering financial support for MP-based companies participating in global trade fairs and co-productions. By integrating global best practices and fostering partnerships with leading AVGC-XR firms, the state hopes to bring Rs 1,500 crore in foreign investments over the next decade.

    Madhya Pradesh’s aggressive push into the AVGC-XR space comes at a time when the Indian AVGC sector is projected to be worth Rs three lakh crore by 2030. By laying the groundwork for a thriving digital ecosystem, MP is positioning itself as a leader in next-gen storytelling, immersive experiences, and high-tech content creation. With a structured policy framework, strong financial backing, and a clear vision for the future, the state is not just embracing the digital revolution, it’s setting the stage to lead it.

  • PlaySuper lands $500K to make in-game shopping seamless

    PlaySuper lands $500K to make in-game shopping seamless

    MUMBAI : Gaming commerce startup, PlaySuper, has secured $500 thousand in seed funding, led by IAN Angel Fund and 100X.VC. The round attracted notable angel investors, including Uday Sodhi, KRS Jamwal, Pratham Mittal, Rajit Bhattacharya, and Ankit Das, reinforcing confidence in PlaySuper’s vision to revolutionise in-game shopping.

    The funding will accelerate product development, expand market reach, and support key hires. PlaySuper is set to launch its next-generation, hyper-personalised in-game store, enabling seamless integration without requiring game updates. The company also plans to expand into southeast Asia within six months, followed by Mena  and Latam. Additionally, it will onboard a world-class product head and strengthen its B2B partnerships team to collaborate with more gaming studios.

    Founded in April 2024 and headquartered in Gurgaon, PlaySuper is pioneering gaming commerce by allowing gamers to shop within mobile games in real time.

    PlaySuper co-founder & COO Shouradeep Chakraborty commented: ‘Gaming is the largest entertainment sector, yet mobile game retention remains a challenge. At PlaySuper, we’re transforming gaming into an interactive, rewarding, and commerce-driven experience. This funding will help us drive product innovation and strategic partnerships to make in-game commerce mainstream.’

    IAN Group co-founder Padmaja Ruparel added: ‘The gaming industry in India is expanding, but retention and monetisation remain key hurdles. PlaySuper is pioneering a new model that benefits both developers and players. With their deep industry expertise, we are confident in the team’s ability to drive this transformation.’

    PlaySuper’s founding team—Shouradeep, Upamanyu, and Abhir—are lifelong gamers and second-time entrepreneurs. Shouradeep and Upamanyu previously co-founded LectureNotes, an edtech platform that secured $2.5 million in funding in 2022. With backgrounds in gaming, Web3, and edtech, they have identified a significant opportunity at the intersection of gaming, fintech, and commerce.

    With mobile gaming retention rates in India facing a 98 per cent churn, PlaySuper introduces an innovative solution by embedding real-world rewards into games. This approach enhances player engagement while helping developers monetise effectively.

    The global gaming commerce market is valued at over $500 billion, with India’s gaming sector projected to exceed $5 billion. 

  • Bandai Namco doubles down on SuperGaming investment

    Bandai Namco doubles down on SuperGaming investment

    MUMBAI: Bandai Namco Entertainment has hit the “continue” button on its investment in SuperGaming, one of India’s leading game studios, reinforcing its belief in the country’s booming gaming scene. The Japanese publisher behind legendary titles like Elden Ring, Dark Souls, One Piece, and Pac-Man has made an additional investment in SuperGaming through its startup fund 021, which was launched in 2022 to fuel new entertainment experiences and expand its global footprint.

    While the exact investment amount remains undisclosed, the 021 fund typically backs startups with capital ranging from 10 million to 500 million yen ($75,000 to $3.75 million). India, along with Latin America, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia, has been identified as a key growth market for Bandai Namco’s strategic expansion.

    “Bandai Namco doubling down on their investment is a strong vote of confidence in our mission and our team to build world-class games and gaming infrastructure from India for India and the world,” said SuperGaming, CEO & co-founder, Roby John.

    Founded in 2019, SuperGaming has gained recognition for popular mobile titles like Silly Royale, Tower Conquest, and MaskGun. The company has also developed SuperPlatform, a cloud-based live-ops game development engine that helps developers seamlessly manage and scale their games. Bandai Namco is already a customer, using SuperPlatform to power its official PAC-MAN mobile game, which has over one billion downloads.

    SuperGaming’s biggest recent success is Indus Battle Royale, a made-in-India battle royale game set in an Indo-futuristic universe. Since its October 2024 launch, Indus has amassed over six million downloads and currently holds a 4.0-star rating on Google Play and 4.2 stars on the App Store.

    Bandai Namco’s continued investment follows an initial funding round in March 2023, during which SuperGaming impressed with its rapid growth, deep player engagement, and commitment to high-quality game development. With backing from major investors including Akatsuki Entertainment Technology Fund, Skycatcher, BAce Capital, and Dream Incubator SuperGaming is quickly establishing itself as a force to be reckoned with in India’s gaming landscape.

    As Bandai Namco presses forward with its India strategy, SuperGaming looks set to play at a whole new level bringing innovative, culturally rich gaming experiences to players at home and beyond.

  • Zupee Partners with KBC for ghar baithe jeeto jackpot contest

    Zupee Partners with KBC for ghar baithe jeeto jackpot contest

    MUMBAI:  Marketers could learn from this collab between Sony and skill-based gaming platform Zupee on how to acquire customers and retain them. The two have partnered to increase stickiness for the Amitabh Bachchan-hosted millionaire  (in India it is the crorepati ) show,  Kaun Banega Crorepati. 

    Titled, ‘ghar baithe jeeto jackpot’ contest, offering viewers a chance to win cash prizes by showcasing their knowledge and skills.

    The contest, which began on 24 January 2025, awards Rs 1 lakh each to five winners every week. Participants can join from the comfort of their homes by answering questions aired “during” KBC episodes. (So obviously those eager to pocket the Rs 1 lakh will do more than watch, they probably will watch the episodes with a magnifying glass and volume  on full.)

    Zupee  COO Akanksha Dhamija, said: “Our aim is to make skill-based games accessible to everyone. The ‘ghar baithe jeeto jackpot‘ contest offers millions the chance to win big by leveraging their knowledge and skills.”

    Sony Pictures Network India head of sales for network channels Sandeep Mehrotra added: “KBC has always celebrated knowledge and aspiration. This collaboration with Zupee enhances viewer engagement, making the dream of winning big more accessible.”

    To participate, viewers must download the Zupee app, tune in to KBC on Sony Entertainment Television every Friday at 9 pm, and submit answers via the app by Monday midnight. Winners are announced during the following Friday’s episode, with a new question aired weekly.

    Zupee, founded in 2018 by IIT Kanpur alumni Dilsher Singh Malhi and Siddhant Saurabh, is India’s largest skill-based ludo platform. The company is backed by investors such as WestCap Group, Matrix Partners India, and Orios Venture Partners.

    This collaboration marks a new chapter in interactive entertainment, bringing together Zupee’s expertise in skill-based gaming and KBC’s knowledge-driven format to reward  Indian viewers

  • Sony Sab rolls out Tenali Rama-inspired mobile game

    Sony Sab rolls out Tenali Rama-inspired mobile game

    MUMBAI:  Do you have a brain that goes clackety-clack and resolves the most difficult of situations just like  that historical figure Tenali Rama? Fans and folks are about to find out.  

    Following the success of its popular show Tenali Rama, Sony Sab has introduced an engaging mobile game inspired by the witty and resourceful protagonist. The game, available on iOS and Android, invites players to assist Tenali Rama on a mission to protect Vijayanagar after his banishment.

    The single-player, tile-matching puzzle game features a progressive storyline with dynamic map levels, rewarding players for solving clever puzzles and overcoming obstacles.

    Sony Sab marketing head Vaishali Sharma said, “The Tenali Rama game is a fresh extension of the show, offering fans an immersive way to engage with the character’s wit and wisdom. It reflects our commitment to delivering meaningful and interactive experiences.”

    Artoon Games  CEO Sani Trivedi added, “It was a pleasure collaborating with Sony Sab Tenali Rama is a beloved figure known for his creativity and intelligence, and this game captures his journey in a thrilling format.”
    The game is now available for download on mobile app stores

  • Nodwin expands esports empire with StarLadder acquisition

    Nodwin expands esports empire with StarLadder acquisition

    MUMBAI: Nodwin Gaming just made a game-changing move, hitting the jackpot with its latest acquisition—StarLadder, a in global esports company. This deal isn’t just a power-up; it’s a full-on respawn for AAA esports events worldwide blending StarLadder’s expertise in hosting AAA events with Nodwin’s ambitious vision of redefining live entertainment for the youth.

    StarLadder will retain its brand identity. founder Roman Romantsov will continue to lead operations while also becoming a shareholder in Nodwin Gaming.
    The deal is valued at an initial consideration of $ 5.5 million (rs 46.75 crores), with a second instalment contingent on meeting earn-out targets. With this strategic acquisition, Nodwin Gaming is not just playing the game—it’s changing it.

    The deal comes as Nodwin Gaming aggressively expands its global footprint. Having already acquired Comic Con India, influencer and MCN firm Trinity Gaming, gaming marketing agency Freaks 4U Gaming, esports agency Ninja Global, and Singapore-based live events company Branded, this latest move reinforces Nodwin’s commitment to strengthening its position in international markets.

    With StarLadder now in its portfolio, Nodwin aims to amplify its high-profile event offerings, bridging the gap between emerging and established markets while unlocking new synergies between the companies. With Nodwin’s extensive industry network, StarLadder will be able to expand into new territories, form new alliances, and elevate its global standing.

    Nodwin Gaming, co-founder, Akshat Rathee expressed his excitement: “StarLadder and Roman are the masterminds behind some of the most legendary esports events ever seen. Roman’s expertise in stage design, creative broadcasting, and production is second to none. I’ve been an admirer of his work for years, and now I get to build alongside him. With this partnership, we aim to create unparalleled esports experiences, bringing more CS:GO tournaments and other thrilling events to new and emerging markets. It’s a privilege to welcome such an iconic brand and visionary leader into the Nodwin Gaming family.”

    Fans, meanwhile, can expect bigger, bolder, and more electrifying esports events, with innovative tournament formats and unforgettable live experiences on the horizon.

    While StarLadder will continue to operate under its well-established identity, joining forces with Nodwin Gaming will unlock fresh resources, creative avenues, and expanded distribution channels, ensuring that both companies thrive in the fast-paced esports industry.

    Starladder, founder, Roman Romantsov shared his enthusiasm for the partnership: “We live in an era of globalisation, where combining strengths, resources, and expertise is the key to success. We are thrilled to have found partners who share our vision and ambition. With Nodwin Gaming, we’re ready to take esports to the next level, bringing unforgettable events to fans across multiple games and regions. Stay tuned—this is just the beginning!”

    The StarLadder team, helmed by Romantsov, boasts a 20-year legacy in tournament production, having delivered some of the industry’s most prestigious competitions. Their portfolio includes Cs:Go and Dota 2 Majors, the Pubg Europe League, and the long-running StarSeries, which has featured 18 seasons of Cs 1.6 and Cs:Go and 17 seasons of Dota 2. Additionally, they’ve collaborated on white-label projects for major publishers such as Valve, Tencent, Krafton, Blizzard, Riot Games, Supercell, and Moonton.