Gaming
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.
Gaming
Konami concludes successful eFootball India campaign
Campaign featuring Rinku Singh, Varun Chakravarthy and other stars boosts engagement ahead of FIFA World Cup 2026.
MUMBAI: When cricket meets football in the virtual world, even the biggest fans can’t help but score and Konami’s latest eFootball campaign in India has clearly hit the back of the net. Konami Digital Entertainment has successfully wrapped up its India campaign for eFootball, which brought together cricketers Rinku Singh and Varun Chakravarthy, actors Naslen Gafoor and Chandu Salim Kumar, and footballers Sahal Abdul Samad and Shubhasish Bose. The multi-star campaign generated strong excitement across gaming, football, and creator communities through social content, fan participation, and in-game engagement.
Building on the initial launch that featured a limited-time Lionel Messi card, the campaign united fan communities, lifestyle creators, football creators, and competitive eFootball influencers. It significantly expanded the game’s visibility and deepened engagement with fans across the country.
The campaign also saw thousands of entries submitted as part of its social media engagement challenge, reflecting high levels of community enthusiasm and active creator involvement.
Looking ahead, Konami plans to build on this momentum with more eFootball experiences for Indian fans as the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaches. With global attention on the tournament set to rise, India will remain a key market for deepening community engagement and bringing fans closer to the action.
In a country that lives and breathes sport, Konami has shown that mixing real-world stars with virtual thrills is a winning formula leaving fans eagerly waiting for the next goal.
