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Category: Gaming

  • Zoreko has found success through a variety of effective marketing channels: Avanish Agarwal

    Zoreko has found success through a variety of effective marketing channels: Avanish Agarwal

    Mumbai: With state-of-the-art technologies, immersive VR setups, and a thriving community, Zoreko Original Gamers offers a unique experience within India’s burgeoning gaming landscape.

    Beyond its technological offerings, they foster a community where gaming enthusiasts can unite, organising competitions and gaining exclusive early access to new games.

    Indiantelevision.com caught up with Zoreko Original Gamers consulting CMO Avanish Agarwal, where he shared many additional insights of this platform.

    Edited excerpts

    On describing the demographic of Zoreko’s audience

     Zoreko’s audience is diverse, typically spanning from ages 15 to 35. While predominantly male, there is a growing segment of female gamers. Their interests include arcade gaming, bowling, virtual reality (VR) experiences, and social gaming. This tech-savvy demographic is active on social media and highly engaged in online gaming communities. Zoreko’s audience is concentrated in urban and semi-urban areas, with a significant presence in metro cities.

    On retaining hardcore gamers and e-sports enthusiasts

    Zoreko aims to attract and retain hardcore gamers and sports enthusiasts through a multifaceted approach. This approach includes providing state-of-the-art facilities like high-performance gaming rigs, which we are planning to launch soon, VR setups, and dedicated arenas to ensure an exceptional gaming environment. Regular tournaments with attractive prize pools are also planned, starting from the very first Women’s Bowling Tournament. We are also planning to launch exclusive membership programs that offer perks such as discounted rates, early game access, and access to exclusive events, enhancing member benefits and loyalty. Additionally, Zoreko prioritises community building through active social media engagement, forums, and in-person meetups, fostering a strong and supportive gaming community.

    On some cutting-edge technologies you offer that are not commonly found in other gaming centres

    Zoreko distinguishes itself by offering cutting-edge technologies rarely found in other gaming centres. This includes advanced VR systems that provide immersive experiences and haptic feedback technology using suits and controllers to enhance realism for interactive environments. High-fidelity simulators cater to racing and other simulations with realistic experiences, while AI-powered game analytics offer detailed insights to help players improve their gaming skills and strategies. These technologies collectively elevate the gaming experience at Zoreko, setting it apart as a hub for innovation and next-level entertainment in the gaming industry. Also what sets us apart is the in-house development of the games that are flagship to Zoreko only!

    On the kind of partnerships you have formed with game developers and other stakeholders in the gaming industry

    Zoreko has cultivated strategic partnerships across various sectors within the gaming industry. This includes collaborations with prominent game developers to provide exclusive game previews, beta testing opportunities, and co-branded events to enhance the gaming experience. Partnerships with brands to enable Zoreko to host major tournaments and events, fostering a competitive environment for gaming enthusiasts. Additionally, working with tech companies facilitates the integration of cutting-edge hardware and software technologies into Zoreko’s gaming centres, ensuring access to the latest technologies. Moreover, Zoreko collaborates with educational institutions to offer internships, workshops, and courses designed to educate and inspire the next generation of game developers and tech enthusiasts and we have also associated with education institutes and offer periodic internships.

    On some marketing channels that have been most effective for Zoreko

    Zoreko has found success through a variety of effective marketing channels. Social media platforms such as Instagram and Google are vital channels for engaging with a youthful and dynamic audience through compelling content. Collaborations with influential gaming personalities and streamers have proven impactful in promoting the brand to their dedicated fan bases. Online advertising across gaming websites, forums, and targeted social media ads helps Zoreko reach potential customers effectively. Hosting local and regional gaming events serves not only to build brand awareness but also to foster a sense of community among gaming enthusiasts. Marketing campaigns keep Zoreko’s audience informed about upcoming events, promotions, and new offerings, ensuring continued engagement and customer retention. We are also creating cutting edge content along with CGI creators to help us drive the engagement.

    On some of the biggest challenges you face in marketing Zoreko

    Marketing Zoreko presents several formidable challenges that we actively navigate. Keeping pace with rapid technological advancements in the gaming industry is crucial, as well as ensuring we integrate the latest innovations into our offerings. The competitive landscape poses another challenge, requiring us to differentiate ourselves effectively amid numerous established and emerging competitors. Customer retention is also essential, given the high expectations of our demanding and ever-changing customer base. Additionally, fostering and maintaining robust brand awareness across new and existing markets remains a constant focus, ensuring Zoreko remains a recognised leader in the gaming community.

    On planning to expand your presence across India or internationally

    Zoreko’s strategy for expanding its presence involves several key initiatives. We plan to utilise a franchise model to swiftly establish our brand in diverse regions across India and eventually  internationally as well. Collaborating with local partners will enable us to navigate new markets efficiently by leveraging their expertise and networks. Thorough market research guides our expansion efforts, identifying high-potential areas where our gaming centres can thrive. We prioritise offering customised services that cater to the specific demands of each region while upholding our core brand values of innovation and quality. Looking beyond borders, Zoreko aims to enter emerging gaming markets globally, starting with neighbouring countries and progressively expanding to other continents. Our commitment to revolutionizing the gaming experience drives us forward as we strive to create memorable and immersive gaming environments for enthusiasts worldwide.

  • Felicity Games secures $700K pre-seed funding

    Felicity Games secures $700K pre-seed funding

    Mumbai: Felicity Games, a casual game developer and publisher, has secured a $700K pre-seed funding from DeVC, Visceral Capital and marquee angel investors including Kunal Shah of CRED, former Nazara CEO, Manish Agarwal, Sriharsha Majety, Nandan Reddy of Swiggy and Google Cloud (APAC) head of gaming Sameer Pittalwala, among others.

    Felicity was founded in 2023 by ex-Swiggy executive Anurag Choudhary with an aim to become India’s leading mobile game publisher. In under a year, Felicity has launched over 10 game titles, which are played by more than a million monthly users across 14 geographies. The company will use the funds towards testing 10 more such games by March 2025. The company aims to scale revenue by 10x by the end of this year.

    The company’s success lies in rapidly prototyping and testing casual games in partnership with Indian game developers for commercial viability using a proprietary framework called ‘Pokhran’, and accordingly scaling only the successful ones.

    Felicity Games founder and CEO Anurag Choudhary said, “Given our cost and skill advantages, Felicity Games is well placed to build a multi-million dollar casual gaming business from India for the world.”

    “Felicity has a unique vision to mobilise the growing ecosystem of Indie developers with the capability of producing high-quality game prototypes at a fraction of the cost. Felicity combines an objective approach to commercial testing with iterations on non-conventional channels to drive risk-adjusted growth for new IPs, unlocking developer friendly publishing for the indie ecosystem” said founding member Divyanshi Chowdhary from DeVC.

    Felicity recently launched two titles ‘Seek & Find’, and ‘Nova Solitaire’ which are already unit economics positive in the US and other western markets with 100,000 plus downloads within a period of three months.

    Beyond game development and publishing, Felicity Games distinguishes itself through strategic partnerships with studios and brands to co-create compelling intellectual properties (IPs). This collaborative approach not only enriches the gaming ecosystem but also expands the company’s reach and influence within the industry.

  • Asiaville unveils next-gen tech for gaming and entertainment content

    Asiaville unveils next-gen tech for gaming and entertainment content

    Mumbai: Asiaville, the IP-driven vernacular language media-tech company, has announced the introduction of AIGE, a hyper-interactive content technology that seamlessly merges cinematic video content with interactive entertainment and gaming elements. The technology gives viewers the chance to control storylines and narratives, thereby drastically increasing viewer engagement.

    “The new content plus technology format – AyeVee Interactive Gamified Experience (AIGE) – is the future of entertainment and gaming content,” said Asiaville Interactive Pvt Ltd co-founder and CEO Tuhin Menon.  

    “At a time when the mammoth content market is increasingly becoming flat – and its viewers inattentive  – we believe the AIGE technology will prove to be the jump the Indian media industry needs. This patent-pending format is a unique mix of cinematic entertainment, interactivity, and gaming, all blended into a seamless experience that puts the user at the heart of the storytelling experience,” said Menon.

    The company rolled out two pilot shows, “Who Killed Kavitha?” and “Let Me Out!” on the AIGE format.

    “Releases of Malayalam shows ‘Let Me Out!’ and Tamil show ‘Who Killed Kavitha?’ just last month have already garnered fantastic engagement numbers. With close to a million downloads of the AyeVee app, user completion rate for the AIGE shows has been over 50 per cent,  

    with users interacting an average of 50 times with each show.”

    “More importantly, the average time spent by each user per day has consistently exceeded 45 minutes,  benchmarking exceedingly well even with the best of the OTT platforms. Notably, an unprecedented 30 percent of users completed both the game shows in one session entirely at one go,” added Menon.

    The two pilot shows garnered ratings of over 4.6/5, with seven lakh minutes of cumulative time spent on the two shows. The ratings and the engagements are indicative of the change content creators and consumers actively seek.

    “The two shows demonstrated that the technology has meaningful scope for brands and advertisers. AIGE content will make in-film brands interactive as well, giving users the freedom the check out products well inside the storyline.  AIGE opens up a whole new medium of engagement for brands, as users engage with them in customised and immersive brand environments,” added Menon.

    The cumulative entertainment and gaming market in India – with a TAM of roughly $3 billion – represents a large monetisation opportunity for AIGE, which is poised at the intersection of these two cohorts.

  • Team Mortal claims victory at The Finals Esports Revolution Showdown 2024 Lan in India

    Team Mortal claims victory at The Finals Esports Revolution Showdown 2024 Lan in India

    Mumbai: Skyesports, a global IP and community builder for gaming and esports, wrapped up The Finale Esports Revolution Showdown, India’s first-ever Lan for the exciting FPS shooter in Chennai. Twenty of the country’s top creators made their way to the city to fight for the prestigious trophy.

    Split into four squads, the teams were headlined by some renowned names in India’s gaming and esports industry, namely, Mortal, Scout, Binks, and Sentinel. After an intense double-elimination bracket, Team Scout and Team Mortal were the only two squads remaining to fight for the trophy.

    Team Scout, making their way through the upper bracket were the favourites, but Mortal’s team, including himself, Red Parasite, Dolly Plays, Pashu, and Pingu, were quick to improvise to deny Scout the trophy.

    Commenting in a post-match interview, Naman “Mortal” Mathur, said, “I am feeling thrilled, especially with the team. I didn’t know what my team’s capabilities were until we got here. We sat here and learned – improvised on our mistakes and here we are.”


    The Finals, an exciting FPS title, is positioning itself as the newest alternative for India’s fast-growing gaming industry.

    Skyesports founder and CEO Shiva Nandy said, “The Finals Esports Revolution Showdown at our HQ in Chennai was a resounding success, picking up more than 225,000 viewers so far – a testament to Skyesports’ distribution channels and power of the gaming creators. We are thrilled to be the official India partners for The Finals, and the engagement to the first esports showdown for the game has showcased its potential to penetrate the Indian gaming market.” 

  • National Video Game Day 2024: Indian esports’ mainstream breakthrough and Olympics aspirations

    National Video Game Day 2024: Indian esports’ mainstream breakthrough and Olympics aspirations

    Mumbai: The video gaming and esports industry in India has witnessed a meteoric rise in the last few years. With a rapidly growing audience and player base, the industry has commanded attention from brands and investors alike.

    According to a FICCI-EY report, total esports tournament participation is projected to reach 2.5 million participants across various titles, compared to 1.79 million in 2023. Additionally, airtime for esports broadcasts is set to increase to 8,000 hours from 6,500 in 2023, with a rising average minute audience.

    Tournaments such as the Battlegrounds Mobile India Masters Series (BGMS) have recently announced their third straight season being broadcast on a mainstream sporting network, changing the way esports is consumed and marking a significant milestone in the sector’s acceptance. India’s participation in major multi-sport tournaments such as the Commonwealth Esports Championships 2022, where the nation’s DOTA 2 team won bronze, and the Asian Games 2022 where esports debuted as a full-fledged medal sport, has further validated its competitive stature.

    While states such as Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, and others are undertaking various initiatives for the development of esports, the country’s honourable prime minister has also advocated for the growth of the sector. With the International Olympic Committee (IOC) also set to discuss the creation of the Olympic Esports Games during the upcoming Paris Olympics, the future looks bright for esports in India.

    Sharing his thoughts on the evolution of esports from a pastime hobby to a mainstream sport and form of entertainment, NODWIN Gaming co-founder and managing director Akshat Rathee stated, “More than a decade back, gaming was nothing but a hobby of a few passionate gamers, with small groups of them organising scattered community competitions across the country. We started NODWIN Gaming in 2014 to streamline esports in India with a vision to bring opportunities for video gaming enthusiasts throughout the country. Looking at the scenario today, we can indeed say India has come a long way. The industry has gained immense popularity and legitimacy among the masses, attracting interest from celebrities, brands, corporates and traditional sporting organisations alike. We will continue to contribute to this growing ecosystem and try to further shine the deserving limelight on gaming and esports. In the near future, we envision esports getting the same mantle as traditional sports, especially with the IOC announcing plans to create Olympic Esports Games and we, along with the Global Esports Federation, are honoured to work alongside the industry stakeholders to achieve that common vision!”

    In addition to gamers and gaming creators, Indian game developers are also making significant strides with games inspired by the country’s rich culture and mythology. Games like ‘Ludo King’ which recently surpassed 1 billion downloads, and ‘Raji: An Ancient Epic’ exemplify this trend.

    Another promising upcoming title that highlights the potential of homegrown developers is the Indo-futuristic ‘Indus Battle Royale’. Developed by Pune-based SuperGaming, the game has recently surpassed 11 million pre-registrations.

    “Over the past decade, India’s gaming industry has transformed from a niche pastime into a mainstream entertainment medium. The surge in mobile gaming, fueled by the high number of smartphone users in the country, has made gaming more accessible to a wider audience, driving the industry’s growth. The creativity and innovation brought in by Indian game developers have produced unique and culturally rich gaming experiences, earning international recognition that has placed India firmly on the global gaming map,” commented SuperGaming CEO and co-founder Roby John.

    Despite India being predominantly a mobile-first gaming nation due to high data penetration and affordable smartphones, there has been a noticeable surge in interest in PC gaming. Beyond hardcore gamers, PCs are increasingly utilized by gaming creators and streamers for content creation and editing. The rise of the creator economy indirectly fuels the growth of the gaming PC ecosystem in India.

    Recent data from Valve highlights that Asia, including India, is one of the fastest-growing regions for Steam users, with a more than 150 per cent increase in new users from 2019 to 2024. CyberpowerPC, the number one gaming PC manufacturing brand in North America which recently forayed into the Indian market promises to cater to this growing demand and create an overall thriving ecosystem that caters to diverse gaming preferences.

    Highlighting the factors that will accelerate the rise of PC gaming in the country, CyberPowerPC India COO Vishal Parekh said, “The growth of gaming in India, evolving from arcades and gaming cafes to an official sport, is remarkable. While mobile serves as an entry point for gamers entering the ecosystem, the shift towards more immersive experiences on larger screens is becoming inevitable. Additionally, PC-based esports titles prominently featured in major sporting tournaments highlight the importance of gaming PCs for grassroots development and achieving success in these events. At CyberPowerPC, we are excited to support the country’s growing PC gaming community and give them an immersive experience along with a competitive edge.”

    Another monumental trend catapulting video gaming into the mainstream is leading streaming and social media platforms increasingly embracing gamification as a strategy to engage users and attract new audiences. Facebook, Netflix, YouTube, Amazon, Google Pay, Zomato, and LinkedIn have all integrated gamification features to tap into a massive and engaged audience.

    “I have been a part of the gaming and esports industry for over a decade and it is fascinating to see how the industry has evolved and grown over these years. For example, esports was a niche, limited to a few people and now it is on its way to be integrated as a new-age sport. Today, gamers of all ages and backgrounds have become active contributors to the sector’s growth, and it is amazing to see how gaming has cemented its place in mainstream culture. Through movies, TV series adaptations and gamification via social media platforms, delivery apps as well as streaming platforms, it has become an integral part of our everyday lives, which was almost unimaginable till a few years back. This momentum is only going to grow, and the future of gaming in India looks incredibly bright. Max Level is committed to contributing to this growth and taking gaming to new heights across the nation,” noted Max Level co-founder and CRO Siddharth Nayyar.

    Without a doubt, the video gaming sector in India is on an upward trajectory, and looking ahead, the sky’s the limit!

  • Revenant Esports wins OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia

    Revenant Esports wins OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia

    Mumbai: Putting up stellar performances, Revenant Esports emerged victorious in the LAN playoffs of the OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia Split 2, securing their spot at the VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT) Ascension: Pacific.

    Organized by NODWIN Gaming, the leading South Asian gaming and esports company, in collaboration with Riot Games, the tournament’s playoffs witnessed fierce competition amongst Revenant Esports, Velocity Gaming, True Rippers, and Orangutan at the NODWIN Gaming Arena in Chattarpur.

    Revenant Esports, featuring India’s top VALORANT players including in-game leader (IGL) Jayanth Ramesh (skillZ), Ganesh Gangadhar (SkRossi), Kasif Sayyed (Paradox), Prish Valvani (Tricky) alongside Kazakhstan’s Dastan Zhumagali (dos9) and Sultan Akbay (sultan), remained unbeaten throughout Split 2. After winning three straight games in the league stage, the team sustained their momentum in the LAN playoffs.

    They defeated Orangutan 2-0 in the upper bracket semi-finals, followed by a 2-1 win over True Rippers in the upper bracket final. In the grand finale, Revenant Esports secured another decisive victory over True Rippers with a commanding 3-0 win. The LAN playoffs were contested in a double elimination bracket, with all matches played in a best-of-three format, except the lower bracket final and grand final, which were best-of-five.

    Expressing his enthusiasm for the victory, Ganesh Gangadhar aka SkRossi of Revenant Esports stated, “Winning the OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia Split 2 is an incredible milestone for us at Revenant Esports. We faced numerous hurdles in Split 1, but those results only made us stronger and more determined to prove ourselves on the main stage again. Personally, returning to the South Asia circuit after competing internationally was a rollercoaster journey, but I have always believed in the potential of our region. This win reinforces that belief and motivates us to aim even higher. A huge shoutout to all our fans for their constant support. We promise to keep pushing our limits and make you proud at VCT Ascension.”

    OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia 2024 boasted an overall prize pool of $130,000 (approx. Rs 1 crore) across Split 1 and Split 2. The total prize pool of Split 1 was $66,000 (approx Rs 55.11 lakhs) distributed evenly across Cup 1 and Cup 2.

    In Split 2, Revenant Esports took home $ 20,000 (approx. Rs 16.68 lakhs) from the overall $ 64,000 (approx. Rs 55 lakhs) prize pool while fellow finalists True Rippers secured $12,500 (Rs 10 lakhs). Velocity Gaming were awarded with $10,000 (approx. Rs 8.34 lakhs), and Orangutan received $7,000 (approx. Rs 5.84 lakhs). OMEN by HP was the tournament’s title partner and Philips was the styling partner.

    “Congratulations to Revenant Esports for demonstrating their prowess against the top teams in the region. Through OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia, NODWIN Gaming and Riot Games have dedicated themselves to establishing a sustainable ecosystem for the title, providing a platform for the nation’s best talent to shine. The invaluable support from our partners and the overwhelming response from fans has made this event truly unforgettable. We are proud to have played a role in elevating the VALORANT esports scene in the region and look forward to Revenant Esports representing South Asia on the global stage,” said NODWIN Gaming co-founder and CEO Gautam Virk.

    The dual split format of the OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia 2024, initiated earlier this year by NODWIN Gaming and Riot Games, has been instrumental in showcasing the skills of South Asian teams and players. The tournament saw an impressive online viewership of 8 million across Split 1 and 2, recording a total footfall of 30,000.

    “The OMEN VALORANT Challengers South Asia 2024 has been an incredible journey. The intense competition and high level of gameplay we have witnessed has been truly inspiring for the viewers as well as the next generation of esports athletes. We are excited to see Revenant Esports take on the best teams from across APAC at the VCT Ascension Pacific and wish them the very best. We look forward to continuing our support for the region’s growing esports ecosystem,” commented  Riot Games esports lead, India & South Asia Sukamal Pegu.

    As the sole Indian representative, Revenant Esports will compete against nine other leading teams from the continent at the VCT Ascension: Pacific which is set to take place in Tokyo, Japan, this September. The winner will secure a coveted spot in the Pacific League 2025.

  • Playful persuasion – Why games are the new playground for brands

    Playful persuasion – Why games are the new playground for brands

    In the modern entertainment landscape, a new empire has risen – one built not on bricks and mortar, but on pixels and play. Gaming has exploded into a cultural colossus, captivating billions across the globe. And amidst this digital renaissance, a new frontier beckons: the intersection of gaming and branding.

    As gaming’s meteoric ascent reshapes the landscape, brands and advertising agencies are seizing the moment to craft immersive experiences and forge profound connections with audiences. The recent launch of Dentsu Gaming by Dentsu, a titan among advertising agencies, serves as a testament to this shift, marking a strategic pivot towards harnessing gaming as a potent platform for brand engagement. Joined by Havas with Havas Play and Omnicom with LevelUp OAC, these industry leaders epitomize a broader trend – brands swiftly reinventing their marketing strategies to unlock the transformative potential of gaming and cultivate deeper connections with consumers.

    A global playground

    The gaming industry, boasting over three billion active players globally, transcends demographics. Age, gender, and location are increasingly irrelevant, with gaming reaching a cultural crossroads. It dissolves language barriers and fosters unique connections, allowing people to bond, compete, and forge memories with friends and perfect strangers alike. This universality makes it a goldmine for advertisers.

    Casual gamers, some of the most diverse demographics online, offer brands unparalleled granularity in targeting. Psychographic and behavioral data lets you tailor messages to resonate with specific player motivations and preferences. Whether it’s through in-game banners, native placements, or esports sponsorships, the avenues for brand integration are as diverse as the gamers themselves.

    Luxury companies stand in queue

    Even the realm of haute couture isn’t immune to the allure of gaming. Luxury titans, keenly aware of the burgeoning spending power wielded by millennial and Gen Z gamers, are forging strategic alliances with popular gaming titles. From Louis Vuitton’s coveted character skins in League of Legends to Gucci’s limited-edition esports watch co-created with Fnatic, these collaborations elevate product storytelling to new heights within the captivating gaming universe. Burberry’s designs for Tencent’s Honor of Kings further exemplifies this innovative marriage.

    The rise of gaming influencers and the emergence of shoppable games within these virtual worlds promise a future brimming with fresh storytelling and revenue streams for the fashion industry.

    Non-gaming apps want games too

    In a quest to tap into the lucrative gaming market, non-gaming companies are strategically integrating games into their apps and websites. Bajaj Finserv (a one-stop finance app), ZEE5 (an OTT platform), and even Explurger (a social app for travellers), have all added dedicated gaming sections to their apps. This seemingly unorthodox strategy underscores the undeniable power of games to enhance user engagement.

    At the heart of this approach lies HTML5, enabling seamless integration of casual games within apps and websites. According to a recent survey conducted by Gamezop, the provider of gaming solutions for the aforementioned, the incorporation of games leads to a notable 15-40 per cent increase in the time users spend on these apps. Put simply, casual games are proving to be instrumental in keeping users actively engaged within non-gaming platforms.

    Borrowing game elements

    For companies seeking an even deeper level of engagement, crafting bespoke mobile games or infusing existing platforms with gamification mechanics presents a golden opportunity. Imagine a loyalty program where points morph into power-ups for a custom-built mobile game, or a fitness app that showers users with virtual badges and rewards for conquering exercise milestones.

    These gamified experiences seamlessly weave brand messaging directly into the fabric of gameplay, igniting a spark of excitement and a tangible sense of achievement. In this symbiotic relationship, marketing and entertainment converge to forge enduring connections with consumers in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

    Future of playful persuasion  

    Gaming’s metamorphosis from a solitary pastime to a vibrant social hub represents a cultural evolution. The gaming industry has spurred companies to toss out their outdated marketing playbooks and embrace the irresistible allure of casual games and other forms of interactive content. An engaged and diverse audience, the seamless integration of games, and gamified experiences allow brands to craft meaningful connections with consumers in a fun and effective manner. The lines between gaming and marketing are blurring delightfully, and the future looks anything but serious – it looks playful, personalized, and brimming with innovative possibilities. Brands that fail to embrace the power of gaming risk missing out on a powerful new channel for engagement and growth.

    The article has been authored by Gamezop co-founder Gaurav Agarwal.

     

  • India shines at esports awards, as S8UL bags its third nomination & Mortal bags his fifth

    India shines at esports awards, as S8UL bags its third nomination & Mortal bags his fifth

    Mumbai: S8UL, a leading esports and gaming organization, is once again in the global spotlight after securing the third nomination at the Esports Awards, while co-founder and one of Indian gaming’s most credible names, Naman ‘Mortal’ Mathur has been nominated for the fifth consecutive year.

    The award ceremony is set for 24 August in Riyadh, as part of the Esports World Cup. S8UL has received nominations in both the Entertainment and Creative categories for its innovative and game-changing initiatives throughout the year, underscoring the organization’s lasting excellence and influence within the esports and gaming community.

    Brainchild of the country’s esports veterans, Naman Mathur aka Mortal, Animesh Agarwal aka 8Bit Thug, and Lokesh Jain aka Goldy, S8UL boasts 26 marquee gamers, together revolutionizing Indian Gaming.

    S8UL and another pivotal co-founder Animesh Agarwal known as 8Bit Thug added, “Our repeated recognition at the Esports Awards reaffirms our strategy and our position as leaders within the Indian and global esports arena. We are thrilled to continue setting standards and redefine ourselves for excellence and innovation consistently.”

    S8UL co-founder Lokesh Jain, aka Goldy expressed his pride in the team’s continued global accomplishments, “These nominations are not just recognition of our hard work over the years but also an affirmation for the growing impact that S8UL has etched for itself in the esports world. It’s also a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve in gaming and content creation and the faith and love that fans have shown us.”

    S8UL is an Indian Esports & gaming content organization, and the only Indian organization to win twice at the prestigious Global Esports Awards. They are also the first Esports organization to be awarded with the ‘Global Impact on Mobile Gaming’ award at the international MOBIES Awards.

    Mortal, since his early days, has consistently demonstrated his prowess in the mobile gaming sector. Before his focus shifted predominantly to content creation, Mortal was celebrated as a top competitor in PUBG Mobile, where he clinched top honours including the PUBG Mobile India Series and Club Open Spring Split. Mortal was honoured as the runner-up for Esports Personality of the Year at the Esports Awards 2023, and recently, won the Jod Creators Award at the BGMI Awards 2024, reaffirming his status as the unparalleled magnet for fans across the globe and solidifying his position as one of the most influential figures in the Indian gaming community.

    Co-founder Naman “Mortal” Mathur, who was also the only Indian to be nominated for two categories at the Esports Awards 2020, “It’s truly humbling to be recognized alongside top organizations and talents globally. Each nomination inspires me to innovate and excel, furthering my contribution within the Indian esports and gaming ecosystem but also elevating our presence on the global stage.”

    As S8UL anticipates the upcoming prestigious esports awards ceremony, fans are encouraged to show their support by voting for S8UL in the “Esports Content Group of the Year” category and Mortal for “Esports Personality of the Year” on the official Esports Awards voting page. Additional event details and registration information can be found on the Esports Awards official website.

    S8ul Secures Third Nomination

    2022: Esports Content Group of the Year – Winner
    2023: Esports Content Creator of the Year – Winner
    2024: Nominated for Esports Content Group of the Year

    Naman Earns Fifth Nomination

    2020: Esports Mobile Player of the Year- 3rd; Streamer of the Year- 2nd 
    2021: Streamer of the Year – 2nd
    2022: Esports Personality of the Year – 2nd
    2023: Esports Personality of the Year – 2nd
    2024: Nominated for Esports Personality of the Year

  • ShemarooVerse launches futuristic immersive AI gaming experience in partnership with GMetri

    ShemarooVerse launches futuristic immersive AI gaming experience in partnership with GMetri

    Mumbai: Shemaroo Entertainment, a pioneer in the Indian entertainment industry, is excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership with GMetri, a leader in AI-powered immersive learning and game development. This collaboration signifies the expansion of ShemarooVerse- Shemaroo’s metaverse platform, into the realm of immersive AI gaming, bringing IP-based gaming to the Web3 platform.

    As part of this innovative venture, ShemarooVerse has introduced IP-based games which leverage the power of Artificial Intelligence and allow fans to experience immersive games in the metaverse. The launch features games based on popular Bollywood films owned by Shemaroo Entertainment, such as Jab We Met, Golmaal, Disco Dancer, Amar Akbar Anthony and more, offering fans a new, interactive way to connect with their favourite movies and characters. As metaverse adoption continues to see traction, more films will be incorporated into this interactive gaming realm.

    Shemaroo Entertainment Ltd. COO Arghya Chakravarty highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, “At Shemaroo, we have always led the way in innovation, and ShemarooVerse, our metaverse platform, exemplifies our dedication to creating future-forward entertainment. By incorporating AI-based gaming, we aim to deliver an even more captivating experience for our consumers. Our collaboration with GMetri represents a pivotal advancement in transforming audience interaction with our popular movies, and we are excited to be developing groundbreaking innovations in the immersive entertainment and gaming space in India.”

    GMetri CEO Utsav Mathir commented on the partnership: “We’re thrilled to bring our FruitSalad.ai technology to ShemarooVerse, showcasing the power of our immersive learning and gaming platform. This collaboration allows us to demonstrate how our AI-driven solution can transform entertainment IP into engaging, interactive experiences. By leveraging our expertise in creating gamified, immersive 3D worlds, we are not only enhancing fan engagement but also showcasing the versatility of our technology across various sectors, from corporate learning to entertainment. This partnership with Shemaroo is a testament to the adaptability and effectiveness of our platform in creating compelling, personalized experiences at scale.”

  • Explore the mythic origins of made-in-India Indus Battle Royale’s avatars

    Explore the mythic origins of made-in-India Indus Battle Royale’s avatars

    Mumbai: Indian games are now increasingly getting more recognition for seamlessly blending mythology and tradition, which offers players a culturally rich experience. These games weave together ancient narratives and art with modern gameplay, resonating deeply with players and elevating India’s standing in global game development.

    One standout example is the highly anticipated Indus Battle Royale by Pune-based SuperGaming, which has garnered over 11 million pre-registrations on Google Play. The Indo-futuristic game is set in the distant future on the island of ‘Virlok’, which was once home to an ancient race of intergalactic explorers, ‘the Yaksha’. Players assume the role of Mythwalkers in search of the rare resource ‘Cosmium’.

    For any battle royale, avatars are integral to providing immersive gameplay as they allow players to choose their unique styles and skills. In Indus, avatars are inspired by Indian history, mythology, and culture, each with its own captivating backstory. Despite their standardized functions, they come in diverse forms, enabling Mythwalkers to select models that best fit their preferences. Here is a glimpse into the fascinating legends behind the avatars of Indus:

    1.     Adi and Adya Series: Challenger


    Background: Adi and Adya are the inaugural standard-issue Avatars, crafted after billions of credits and countless hours of research and development. Designed to embody and cater to the competitive spirit of Mythwalkers, they represent the cutting-edge technology that defines the Indus Battle Royale experience. These avatars are chosen by those looking to balance efficiency with style.

    2.     Null and Void Series: Explorer

    Background: Null and Void are the initial prototype models that successfully landed on Virlok. Their utilitarian design reflects their age. Despite the creation of more sophisticated models, their charm and reliability make them a common choice for Mythwalkers. They symbolize the call of the infinite void, daring Mythwalkers to venture into the deepest secrets of the Cosmos.

    3.     Diya

    Series: Yaksha Vintage

     

    Background: Diya represents a connection to the happier times on Indus. This vintage icon has been revived with the hope of rekindling the past’s joy and celebration. Her design serves as a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of the ancient Yaksha race.

    4.     Neo Yash

    Series: Yaksha Culture

    Background: Neo Yash showcases the cultural values and aesthetics that were integral to Yaksha life. This Avatar embodies the fashion and artistic expression native to Indus, providing a glimpse into the cultural richness of the Yaksha civilization.

    5.     Rana and Arya Series: Yaksha Glamour

    Background: Known as a celebrated entertainer and dancer, Rana was the headline act of a traveling dance troupe. However, classified documents reveal that his glamorous public persona masked his true role as an elite agent working covertly for the Yaksha Council.

    Similarly, Arya was renowned as a performer and master thief who used her performances as a cover for infamous heists. Despite appearing to reform, her continued collaboration with Rana hints at ongoing involvement in clandestine activities.

    6.     Heena

    Series: Indus Icon

    Background: Modeled after India’s well-renowned Olympic shooter, Heena is the greatest living bounty hunter in the Indus universe. Frequently summoned by COVEN, an intragalactic syndicate, the sharpshooter is called upon when Mythwalkers need exceptional skill or more often than not, a miracle.

    7.     Mor-ni

    Series: Yaksha Heroes


    Background: A legend in exile of the Champions Conclave, Morni is the rare female representative of the Immortal Peacock. Her indomitable will, tenacity, and deadly grace in combat have made her one of the most formidable warriors in Indus.

    8.     Mech Balika Series: Indus Automata


    Background: Originally a marionette in a theater run by automatons, Mech Balika’s design is inspired by the Rajasthani “Kathputli” string puppet. It remains unclear how or why she became a renowned combat unit, considering the Yaksha’s reluctance to weaponize their robotic creations, viewing it as a loss of innocence.

    9.     Pokhran

    Series: Indus Automata


    Background: Developed by the famous Indian scientist Homi J. Bhabha, Pokhran units were rescued by the Yaksha and widely deployed across Virlok. They powered the planet’s most remote corners and facilitated progress. Eventually, their resilience caught the attention of a Mythwalker who captured an intact unit, leading to the creation of this Avatar.

    10.     Sir-taj

    Series: Indus Automata


    Background: Sir-Taj is a technological marvel, representing the Yaksha’s deep reverence for their heritage. Universally adored on Indus, he has regained celebrity status among Mythwalkers due to his antics and viral videos on the internet.