ITV

Category: Gaming

  • Anuj Tandon announces departure from JetSynthesys as gaming CEO

    Anuj Tandon announces departure from JetSynthesys as gaming CEO

    MUMBAI: He’s game to get a move on Anuj Tandon, the CEO and investor of  gaming at JetSynthesys  has decided to hang up his boots at the company. As CEO of gaming, Anuj led  and managed various gaming assets of JetSynthesys including its game studio, investments and  global partnerships, esports (Skyesports), Nautilus Mobile, Jetapult, Nodwin and Web3 ventures.

    He spent two years at India’s foremost gaming firm as its CEO, also being a board observer at Nautilus and Jetapul. Prior to that, he was head (India & Mena regions) of corporate development &  investments at Krafton where he led its investments in Pratilipi, FRND, Nautilus Mobile, KukuFM, Nodwin, Loco, One Impression, among others.

    A hard core software enthusiast Anuj began his career at Infosys working as a developer, then a solution designer for four years before jumping to Tech Mahindra for a short stint of six months in end-2009. He then  co-founded his own studio Rolocule Games which he ran for five years before it was acquired by Dream 11. Nazara Games was his next stop for a year where he headed mobile game publishing & marketing till 2016. He then helped Chinese company Yozu Interactive to set up Yoozoo Games as its CEO and stayed there for four years. And then came his Krafton shift where he oversaw its investments in various companies.

    Anuj is a well-known figure in the games industry and observers are all eager to know what his next initiative will be.

    However, he was effusive in his praise while posting his departure from JetSynthesys on Linkedin this morning. Said he:  “.. I would like to thank Rajan Navani for being the visionary to create one of the most important companies in digital media and gaming in India and offering me the opportunity to work as CEO gaming.”  

    He then went on to thank the rest of his colleagues at the various studios and companies he oversaw. 

  • JetSynthesys welcomes Ryo Shima as CEO of gaming division

    JetSynthesys welcomes Ryo Shima as CEO of gaming division

    Pune: JetSynthesys, a new age global digital entertainment and technology company, announced the appointment of Ryo Shima as the new chief executive officer of its gaming division. Shima, who has been leading JetSynthesys’ Japan business, will now oversee the company’s gaming operations. Based in Silicon Valley, Shima brings a wealth of experience, including a notable tenure at listed Japanese major GREE (Former-CEO of GREE UK, COO of GREE US and SVP of GREE Inc) where he excelled in driving growth and innovation in the mobile gaming sector.

    Shima is a highly seasoned leader known as an expert in data-driven decision making, financial modeling, global partnership strategies, and digital marketing to deliver innovations, and revenue growth. He has also been instrumental in cross border game development (Japan-India-US) in the past at JetSynthesys. In his new role, Shima will be charged with steering the strategic direction of the Gaming Division, with a focus on expanding the company’s portfolio, enhancing player experiences, and harnessing advanced technology to deliver groundbreaking gaming solutions, at a time when Indian companies are expanding their global footprint.

    “Ryo’s impressive track record, particularly during his time at GREE where he played a pivotal role in establishing key titles and expanding international reach, makes him an exceptional leader for our Gaming Division,” said JetSynthesys founder & CEO Rajan Navani. “His insights from Silicon Valley, combined with his experience in the global gaming arena, will be crucial as we pursue innovative opportunities and deeper engagement with our global partners.”

    Shima said, “I am excited to step into this expanded role and look forward to collaborating with our talented teams worldwide to create engaging and innovative gaming experiences. Our focus will remain on offering unparalleled solutions for game developers, publishers and gamers while ensuring growth in the dynamic and ever-evolving gaming landscape.”

    Ryo holds an MBA from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business and has investment banking experience as well having worked with one of the world’s largest firms, Carlyle for three years. With Ryo Shima at the helm, JetSynthesys is poised to strengthen its position in the competitive gaming market and deliver unparalleled entertainment to gamers around the globe.

  • Nazara’s FAU-G: Domination shines at IGDC 2024 with massive playtest success

    Nazara’s FAU-G: Domination shines at IGDC 2024 with massive playtest success

    Mumbai: FAU-G: Domination, the latest military shooter from Nazara Publishing, received overwhelming support during its playtest at the Indian Game Developer Conference (IGDC) 2024, held in Hyderabad from 13-15 November. The game, developed by Mumbai-based Dot9 Games, captivated nearly 1,000 attendees, solidifying its position as a crowd favorite.

    Attendees eagerly lined up to experience the highly anticipated sequel in the FAU-G universe, which has already seen over 40 million downloads across its past games.

    The playtest offered critical insights into gameplay performance and player preferences, ensuring a refined and community-driven development process:

    1    Gameplay performance: 80 per cent of players praised the fluid gameplay, highlighting its performance on mid and low-end devices.

    2    Popular game modes: Arms Race emerged as the top choice, preferred by 70 per cent of players over other modes like Team Deathmatch and 1v1.

    3    Gunplay feedback: 70 per cent rated the gunplay as ‘good’ to ‘excellent’, demonstrating a positive reception among industry professionals and creators.

    4    Improvement areas: 10 per cent of participants noted hitbox registration issues, while eight per cent flagged technical concerns like overheating.

    With a release scheduled for early 2025, the Dot9 Studios team plans additional community-driven playtests to fine-tune the game and enhance transparency in its development process.

    Given the Indian shooter market’s staggering base of 500 million players, such meticulous pre-launch testing ensures FAU-G: Domination can thrive in an increasingly competitive landscape.

    Pre-registrations for FAU-G: Domination are now live on the Google Play Store for Android, with iOS and iPadOS pre-registrations following soon. Early registrants will receive the Beast Collection, a limited-edition set of in-game cosmetics inspired by the Tiger, India’s national animal.

    This exclusive collection includes:

    1    Accessories: Frame, banner, avatar, sticker, spray, and charm.

    2    Gun Skins: Sawed-off shotgun, USP, Scout rifle, M4, Uzi, and Kabar.

    The Beast Collection is only available to players who pre-register and will not be accessible post-launch.

    https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.dotnine.faug

  • Mortal wins ‘Content Creator of the Year’ at Esports Awards 2024

    Mortal wins ‘Content Creator of the Year’ at Esports Awards 2024

    Mumbai: Naman Mathur, famously known as Mortal, has etched his name in global esports history by winning the prestigious ‘Content Creator of the Year’ award at the Esports Awards 2024 part two. The ceremony, held in Los Angeles, celebrated the finest in the gaming world, with Mortal triumphing over global heavyweights such as Tarik Celik, Ibai Llanos Garatea, and Marc ‘Caedrel’ Lamont.

    This landmark achievement highlights Mortal’s exceptional contribution to the gaming ecosystem, solidifying his status as India’s biggest gamer. With over seven million YouTube subscribers and 5.3 million Instagram followers, Mortal has become a beacon of inspiration for millions of gamers in India and beyond.

    S8UL Esports co-founder, Mathur aka Mortal expressed his gratitude, stating, “Winning this award is an incredible moment of pride, not just for me but for the entire Indian gaming and esports community. My journey began with a simple passion for gaming, and seeing that passion resonate with millions of people is truly humbling. I hope this achievement inspires more young gamers to chase their dreams and believe that they too can earn global recognition through dedication and hard work. I am deeply grateful to S8UL for being the backbone of my journey. This success is not mine alone- it belongs to every fan, every teammate, and every supporter who believed in me and in the potential of Indian esports.”

    S8UL Esports co-founder, Animesh Agarwal aka 8Bit Thug, shared his elation, “This award holds a deeply personal meaning for me. Watching Mortal achieve this recognition feels like a shared victory- one that takes me back to where it all began. From the late nights to the sacrifices, every moment has led us here. Together, we’re not just creating history; we’re shaping the future of gaming and esports globally. A victory for him, a milestone for Indian esports!”

    S8UL Esports co-founder, Lokesh ‘Goldy’ Jain added,  “When we first started this journey, we had no idea how far it would take us, but we always knew we were in this together. Mortal has always been like a brother to me, and seeing him win this award feels like a personal achievement. For him to be honoured with this accolade today is a reflection of the countless hours, effort and heart we’ve poured into building who we are and what we stand for.”

    Mortal’s milestone victory shines a spotlight on India’s growing influence in the global esports and gaming content scene, inspiring a new generation of dreamers and achievers.

  • Bollywood Icon Sherlyn Chopra signed on MelBet as brand ambassador

    Bollywood Icon Sherlyn Chopra signed on MelBet as brand ambassador

    Mumbai: MelBet has announced the appointment of Bollywood legend Sherlyn Chopra as its brand ambassador. Known for her fearless approach and dynamic career in film and television, Chopra will promote MelBet in international markets while creating exclusive content for the brand.

    Chopra’s success in the entertainment industry, including her breakout role in the psychological thriller “Red Swastik”, has made her a household name in India. She continues to make waves with her web series, music albums, short films, and other creative ventures. As the first Indian to appear in Playboy magazine, Sherlyn’s ability to challenge conventions and embrace bold choices aligns perfectly with MelBet’s innovative spirit.

    “I am incredibly excited to become a part of the MelBet family,” Chopra shared. “Sports are more than just games or competitions as they unequivocally bring people together. I am proud to contribute to its popularisation with such a reliable partner. MelBet is not just about gaming, casinos, or sports. It is about team spirit towards involvement in the games, followed by highs and lows which are inevitable in the pursuit of success and victory. MelBet is an experience that brings us closer as a community and in setting our goals and achieving them. I am looking forward to starting our collaborative journey and the opportunities that we can create and explore for our growing game lovers!”

    A MelBet representative expressed excitement about the collaboration: “We are very pleased that Sherlyn Chopra has joined our team! She is not only a talented actress, but also a person who is not afraid to push the boundaries. This quality is crucial because we always strive for innovation and development at MelBet. We are confident that our collaboration will open up new opportunities for our clients and make the MelBet brand even more special for sports lovers, gamers, and those who share an undying passion for the game!”

  • Stanfest to bring Ashish Chanchlani, Fukra Insaan and 200 more creators

    Stanfest to bring Ashish Chanchlani, Fukra Insaan and 200 more creators

    Mumbai: Stan has announced India’s biggest creator gathering, “Stanfest 2024”.   The upcoming event on 24 November 2024 at Phoenix Palassio Courtyard, Lucknow, features a lineup of over 200+ creators attending from different genres like Lifestyle, gaming, music, comedy, motovloggers,sports among others. Fans can look forward to seeing Ashish Chanchlani, Abhishek Malhan aka ‘Fukra Insaan,’ Round2Hell, UK07, Mortal, and Anurag Diwedi.

    The event is set to offer a wide range of activities designed to connect and engage attendees with their favorite creators including fun-filled engagement sessions with creators, a mini tournament hosted by the title sponsor of Stanfest, Zupee, and the semi-finals and finals of Esports LAN tournament with the winner getting a Trip to Thailand. The Zupee mini tournament offers fans to play with their favorite creators and get rewards. The event will also celebrate excellence in gaming and esports through an award ceremony. Towards the end, a live music performance would wrap the event on a musical note.

    The event will also offer multiple themed areas designed to offer an immersive experience for attendees.The event sponsors, Bingo and GetRizzed, will have dedicated experience to actively engage the audience with exciting competitions and attractive rewards. Additionally, the Stan arena and Ludo arena will feature multiple interactive booths, offering a variety of gaming activities and immersive experience zones designed to captivate and entertain attendees in the event.. Audiences can participate in tournaments, games to win goodies and rewards including a Royal Enfield Bullet. The event will also feature a cosplay arena where award winning artists will be joining showcasing their talent. 

  • Leveraging Cryptocurrency for Crowdfunding Independent Media Projects

    Leveraging Cryptocurrency for Crowdfunding Independent Media Projects

    Cryptocurrency has rapidly become a transformative force in many industries, including independent media. For filmmakers, content creators, and other media entrepreneurs, cryptocurrency offers a decentralized and transparent way to fund projects without relying on traditional financial institutions. This approach opens up new possibilities for those who might struggle to secure funding through conventional means.

    The Emergence of Crypto Crowdfunding

    Crypto crowdfunding works similarly to traditional crowdfunding, but with the added benefits of blockchain technology. Platforms like CoinStarter and FundYourselfNow allow creators to raise funds in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum. These platforms utilize smart contracts to ensure that funds are released only when predefined conditions are met, providing both security and transparency for all parties involved.

    A key advantage of crypto crowdfunding is its global accessibility. Unlike traditional methods, which may be limited by geography, cryptocurrency transactions can be made from anywhere in the world. This global reach enables creators to tap into a much larger pool of potential backers, which is particularly beneficial for independent media projects that need international support.

    Benefits of Cryptocurrency in Media Crowdfunding

    One of the primary benefits of using cryptocurrency for crowdfunding is the increased transparency it offers. Blockchain technology allows all transactions to be publicly recorded, giving backers full visibility into how their contributions are being used. This transparency fosters trust, which is crucial for the success of any crowdfunding campaign.

    Cryptocurrency also reduces the costs associated with fundraising. Traditional payment processors often charge fees that can eat into the funds raised, especially with international transactions. Cryptocurrency transactions typically incur lower fees, ensuring that more of the raised funds go directly to the project.

    Moreover, cryptocurrency enables innovative funding models such as tokenization. In these models, creators can issue digital tokens that represent a share of the project’s future profits or offer other rewards to backers. This approach not only funds the project but also engages backers as stakeholders, incentivizing them to promote the project.

    Real-World Examples

    Several independent media projects have successfully used cryptocurrency crowdfunding. For example, the film “Braid” was entirely funded through a token sale, raising $1.7 million. This approach allowed the filmmakers to bypass traditional investors and engage directly with their audience.

    Another example is the documentary “Bitcoin: The End of Money as We Know It,” which raised a portion of its budget through Bitcoin donations. This project tapped into the enthusiasm of the crypto community, demonstrating how niche subjects can find dedicated backers in the crypto world.

    Additionally, platforms like Betchain casino showcase the broader utility of cryptocurrencies, integrating them into various aspects of their business model, further demonstrating the versatility and potential of digital currencies beyond just media projects.

    Challenges and Considerations

    While cryptocurrency crowdfunding offers many advantages, it also comes with challenges. The volatility of cryptocurrencies can affect the amount of funds raised, as the value of contributions can fluctuate significantly. Additionally, the regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies is still developing, and creators must navigate this landscape carefully to ensure compliance with local laws.

    Despite these challenges, cryptocurrency presents a promising alternative to traditional crowdfunding methods. By leveraging blockchain technology, independent media creators can access a global audience, reduce costs, and engage backers in innovative ways.

    Disclaimer: This article does not have journalistic/ editorial involvement of indiantelevision.com. indiantelevision.com group or its websites does not endorse/ subscribe to the contents of the article/advertisement and/or views expressed herein.

    The reader is further advised that Online Casino, Betting, Online Gaming , Crypto products, Financial Investments/Engagement , NFTs, Products associated with health, wellness, and food are unregulated and can be highly risky. There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions or risk associated with health conditions.

    Indiantelevision.com group shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the views, opinions, announcements, declarations, affirmations etc., stated/featured in the same. The decision to read hereinafter is purely a matter of choice and shall be construed as an express undertaking/guarantee in favour of indiantelevision.com (indiantelevision.com group) of being absolved from any/ all potential legal action, or enforceable claims. The content may be for information and awareness purposes and does not constitute financial advice. 

  • The Intersection of Gaming and Media: How Social Casinos are Driving Engagement in Digital Spaces

    The Intersection of Gaming and Media: How Social Casinos are Driving Engagement in Digital Spaces

    In the rapidly evolving world of digital entertainment, social casinos have emerged as significant players, driving engagement and shaping the future of online interaction. These platforms combine the allure of virtual gaming with the immersive nature of digital media, creating a unique space where entertainment and engagement thrive. As mobile gaming and OTT platforms continue to dominate the digital landscape, social casinos are leveraging their strengths to captivate audiences in innovative ways.

    Social casinos, such as Spree, are particularly effective at engaging casual gamers by offering experiences that blend fun gameplay with attractive rewards. Unlike traditional gaming environments, social casinos focus on providing a pressure-free atmosphere where players can enjoy their favorite games while earning virtual prizes and rewards. This model has proven highly successful in retaining users and encouraging them to continue engaging with the platform over extended periods.

    One of the key approaches employed by social casinos to enhance player engagement is the use of promotions and tailored offers. These incentives are carefully designed to appeal to the preferences and habits of individual players, much like how OTT services personalize content recommendations. By analyzing player data and behaviors, social casinos can offer promotions that resonate with their audience, encouraging them to stay active and engaged. This personalized approach not only boosts player retention but also fosters a sense of loyalty and community among users.

    The influence of social casinos extends beyond just gaming. These platforms are increasingly partnering with digital influencers and content creators to reach broader audiences. By collaborating with popular figures in the digital space, social casinos can create content that is both entertaining and promotional, further enhancing their visibility and appeal. This approach mirrors the approaches used by media companies to keep viewers invested in their content, blurring the lines between different forms of digital entertainment.

    Moreover, social casinos are capitalizing on the growing trend of social interaction within gaming. Many platforms now incorporate social features that allow players to connect, compete, and share their experiences with friends and other users. This social aspect not only enhances the gaming experience but also drives engagement by encouraging players to return to the platform to interact with others. The integration of social elements into gaming is a trend that aligns closely with the broader movement towards more interactive and community-driven digital experiences.

    As digital entertainment continues to evolve, the role of social casinos in this space is likely to grow even more significant. With their ability to blend entertainment with engagement, these platforms are well-positioned to capture the attention of modern digital audiences. The success of social casinos lies in their ability to adapt to the changing preferences of players, offering experiences that are both enjoyable and rewarding.

    To further understand the broader impact of gaming on digital engagement, it’s worth exploring the research conducted byThe Entertainment Software Association. Their studies provide valuable insights into how gaming is shaping the future of digital media and the ways in which platforms like social casinos are contributing to this transformation.

    In conclusion, social casinos are not just a trend; they are a reflection of the broader shift towards more interactive and personalized digital experiences. By offering compelling gameplay, personalized promotions, and social interactions, these platforms are driving engagement in digital spaces and setting the stage for the future of entertainment. As the lines between gaming and media continue to blur, social casinos will undoubtedly play a central role in the digital entertainment ecosystem, attracting and retaining audiences in an ever-evolving landscape.

    Disclaimer: This article does not have journalistic/ editorial involvement of indiantelevision.com. indiantelevision.com group or its websites does not endorse/ subscribe to the contents of the article/advertisement and/or views expressed herein.

    The reader is further advised that Online Casino, Betting, Online Gaming , Crypto products, Financial Investments/Engagement , NFTs, Products associated with health, wellness, and food are unregulated and can be highly risky. 

    There may be no regulatory recourse for any loss from such transactions or risk associated with health conditions.  
    Indiantelevision.com group shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the views, opinions, announcements, declarations, affirmations etc., stated/featured in the same. The decision to read hereinafter is purely a matter of choice and shall be construed as an express undertaking/guarantee in favour of indiantelevision.com (indiantelevision.com group) of being absolved from any/ all potential legal action, or enforceable claims. The content may be for information and awareness purposes and does not constitute financial advice. 

  • India’s top five gaming stars gather for DreamHack India 2024 in Hyderabad

    India’s top five gaming stars gather for DreamHack India 2024 in Hyderabad

    Mumbai: DreamHack India, the country’s largest gaming festival, is set to electrify Hyderabad from 15-17 November 2024, celebrating its fifth anniversary. This year, DreamHack will share the stage with Hyderabad Comic Con, India’s top pop culture festival, combining gaming, esports, technology, and cosplay with the best of pop culture for an epic three-day event.

    Since its inception, DreamHack India has become a staple in the gaming and esports landscape. This year’s festival will feature exclusive meet-and-greet sessions, tournaments, and interactive activities with the nation’s biggest gaming stars, brought together through a partnership between NODWIN Gaming and 8Bit Creatives.

    Meet India’s Five Gaming Titans at DreamHack India 2024:

    1. Naman Mathur (Mortal): The co-founder of S8UL and a prominent name in Indian esports, Mortal, has redefined gaming success with six global Esports Awards nominations. Known for major achievements like BMPS Season one and PUBG Mobile India Series, Mortal is a true icon, even representing the gaming industry in a meeting with prime minister Modi.

    2. Payal Dhare (Payal Gaming): Breaking gender barriers, Payal Gaming rose from casual play to become one of India’s top gaming creators. With millions of followers and a story that encourages women across the country, Payal has inspired countless fans and is poised to bring her infectious energy to DreamHack India.

    3. Raj Varma (Snax Gaming): Hailing from Hyderabad, Snax is a local favourite and an influential figure in the gaming community. His career spans representation at the PUBG Mobile World League 2020: East and the promotion of healthy gaming with his “Fit Gamers” initiative, countering stereotypes of gaming lifestyles.

    4. Kaashvi Hiranandani (KaashPlays): Known for her empowering role in female gaming, KaashPlays left her finance job during the COVID-19 lockdown to chase her passion. With millions of followers, she advocates for women in esports and inspires others to pursue gaming careers.

    5. Salman Ahmad (8Bit Mamba): Beginning with PC games and transitioning to mobile gaming, Mamba found success streaming BGMI and GTA V. His journey reflects determination, with family support growing after seeing his accomplishments. Mamba’s love for football adds depth to his gaming persona.

    Attendees can enjoy DreamHack x Hyderabad Comic Con with a single ticket, available on Insider.in and Paytm, as well as through the official websites of DreamHack India and Comic Con India.

    https://dreamhack.com/india/

  • 88 Pictures launches its gaming division – 88 Games

    88 Pictures launches its gaming division – 88 Games

    Mumbai: 88 Pictures, an animation and VFX studio from India, has launched a new gaming division, 88 Games, entering the game development sector with a focus on high-quality indie games for PC and console audiences. 88 Games aims to blend visual quality with storytelling inspired by India’s rich history and culture.

    Known for its animation work on shows like Trollhunters: Tales of Arcadia, Gremlins: Secret of Mogwai, Transformers: The Earth Spark, Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight, and Fast & Furious: Spy Racers, 88 Pictures has made a mark in international markets. With 88 Games, the studio builds on its storytelling legacy to offer interactive experiences that entertain, educate, and inspire.

    Led by industry veterans Milind D Shinde and Shiben Bhattacharjee, the team includes experienced professionals from global studios, all dedicated to creating games that showcase India’s cultural heritage.

    88 Games founder & CEO Milind D Shinde said, “88 Games represents the next step in our journey at 88 Pictures. Our team is dedicated to producing premium games that are not only visually stunning but also deeply rooted in our cultural identity. India, being one of the oldest civilizations in the world, has legends, stories, cultures, and art that have existed for thousands of years, forming a unique kaleidoscope that needs to be showcased to the world. It is an exciting challenge to translate the heritage of India into this new medium, with our mission to narrate stories based on this immense cultural capital through video games for the global audience.”

    88 Games plans to introduce titles that will give global gamers a unique glimpse into India’s folklore and history. Through intricately crafted art styles and immersive sound design, each game will present an authentic, engaging experience, drawing from classic Indian tales, legends, and mythological characters.

    “At 88 Games, we see storytelling as a powerful bridge between cultures. Our mission is to create games that entertain while connecting players to India’s rich history and mythology. As India’s gaming market rapidly expands, there remains a significant gap in the availability of high-quality PC and console games that showcase the country’s unique cultural identity. 88 Games aims to fill that void, by providing an exceptional gameplay experience to immerse and contribute to the growth of the video gaming industry,” stated 88 Games’ game director Shiben Bhattacharjee.

    88 Games has three games in development, with its first title—launching on Xbox and PlayStation—set for a reveal at the India Game Developers Conference (IGDC) 2024.

    According to Lumikai’s recent Levelling Up: State of India Interactive Media & Gaming Research FY’24 report, India’s Animation/VFX industry was valued at $1.6 billion in FY 24. The gaming market also grew by 23 million new players, reaching a total of 590 million gamers and projected to exceed $9.2 billion by FY 29, with a 20 per cent five-year CAGR.

    The union cabinet, under prime minister Narendra Modi, recently approved the National Centre of Excellence (NCoE) for AVGC-XR (animation, visual effects, gaming, comics, and extended reality). PM Modi also encouraged Indian game developers to make an international impact in his Independence Day address.

    With 88 Pictures’ animation and VFX expertise, the launch of 88 Games is expected to further boost India’s role in the global AVGC-XR and gaming sectors.