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NODWIN Gaming Acquires StarLadder for $5.5 Million—Here’s What That Means for the Future of Esports

  • January 31, 2025
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Introduction: A Major Move in Esports In an exciting development for the gaming world, NODWIN Gaming, a subsidiary of Mumbai-based Nazara Technologies, has announced the acquisition of StarLadder,

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NODWIN Gaming Acquires StarLadder for $5.5 Million—Here’s What That Means for the Future of Esports

Introduction: A Major Move in Esports

In an exciting development for the gaming world, NODWIN Gaming, a subsidiary of Mumbai-based Nazara Technologies, has announced the acquisition of StarLadder, one of the biggest names in esports event production. This acquisition, valued at an initial $5.5 million (around Rs 46.75 crore), is set to reshape the landscape of esports and event management globally.

What does this deal mean for NODWIN Gaming, StarLadder, and the esports community? Let’s dive into the details and explore how this acquisition is changing the game.


What is NODWIN Gaming’s Latest Move?

NODWIN Gaming, a key player in India’s esports scene, has now expanded its portfolio by acquiring StarLadder, a renowned esports IP and services company. This acquisition is a big step forward in NODWIN’s strategy to enhance its offerings and build a world-class events portfolio. With this move, NODWIN aims to strengthen its presence in the global esports scene and elevate the quality of events they produce.

StarLadder is no stranger to esports enthusiasts. The company has been behind some of the most iconic esports events in the world, including Valve CSGO Major, Valve Dota 2 Major, and many more. NODWIN’s acquisition of StarLadder is an exciting blend of expertise, creativity, and resources, which will help NODWIN expand its AAA IPs (high-end intellectual properties) and event production capabilities worldwide.


How Did the Deal Go Down?

NODWIN Gaming’s deal with StarLadder is a combination of cash and stock swap. The total initial consideration is $5.5 million (Rs 46.75 crore), which will be split as follows:

  • $2 million (Rs 17 crore) in cash.
  • $3.5 million (Rs 29.75 crore) in a swap of equity shares of NODWIN Gaming Pte.

In addition to this, Roman Romanstov, the founder of StarLadder, will become a shareholder of NODWIN Gaming Pte and continue to lead StarLadder’s operations going forward. This ensures that the company retains its leadership and expertise while benefiting from NODWIN’s vast resources and networks.


Who is StarLadder?

Founded in 2018 by Roman Romanstov, StarLadder has been a major force in esports event production. With more than 20 years of experience, the company has created some of the most popular and successful esports events across multiple games.

StarLadder is best known for its long-running StarSeries events in CS:GO and Dota 2, as well as its work with top-tier game developers like Valve, Tencent, Riot Games, Krafton, and many others. The company has a reputation for delivering large-scale events, incredible stage designs, and high-quality broadcast solutions that captivate millions of esports fans worldwide.


What Does This Mean for NODWIN and Esports Fans?

With this acquisition, NODWIN is set to elevate its esports capabilities and event production expertise. NODWIN has already been expanding aggressively in India and emerging global markets, and now with StarLadder’s team of creative professionals, they’re poised to take their events to the next level.

Here’s what this acquisition brings to the table:

1. World-Class Event Production

StarLadder has a proven track record of creating iconic esports events, and now their expertise will be a key asset to NODWIN. Together, the two companies can organize larger, more dynamic events with a focus on quality production and fan engagement.

2. Global Expansion

This deal not only strengthens NODWIN’s position in India but also gives the company a significant presence in international markets. By bringing StarLadder into the fold, NODWIN can tap into StarLadder’s global network of partners, players, and game developers, further cementing its place on the world stage.

3. Bigger, Better Esports IPs

NODWIN now has access to StarLadder’s legendary esports IPs like StarSeries, one of the most loved event brands in esports. This acquisition sets the stage for NODWIN to develop and manage more high-end events and potentially create new, groundbreaking IPs that fans across the world can’t wait to experience.


Leadership Perspectives: What the Founders Say

Both Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder of NODWIN Gaming, and Roman Romanstov, Founder of StarLadder, shared their excitement about the acquisition:

  • Akshat Rathee commented, “Roman is a true pioneer in esports event production. His work has always impressed me, and it’s a privilege to now have him on board. With this acquisition, NODWIN can now envision bigger and better IPs and events for fans and partners alike.”
  • Roman Romanstov added, “Esports is global, and combining our resources and expertise with NODWIN will allow us to create extraordinary experiences for fans worldwide. Together, we will deliver unforgettable events across multiple games and regions.”

NODWIN’s Recent Growth Strategy

This acquisition of StarLadder is the latest in a series of strategic moves by NODWIN Gaming to solidify its position in the esports and gaming sectors. In recent months, NODWIN has made several high-profile acquisitions, including:

  • Comic Con India – expanding its live-event portfolio.
  • Trinity Gaming – an influencer agency and MCN business.
  • AFK Gaming – an esports agency business.
  • Freaks 4U Gaming – a leading esports and gaming marketing agency based in Germany.
  • Ninja Global – a marketing and esports agency focused on the Middle East and Turkey.
  • Branded – a Singapore-based live events firm.

With each acquisition, NODWIN is building a stronger foundation to grow its presence in both India and global esports markets.


Conclusion: What’s Next for Esports and NODWIN?

This acquisition marks a new chapter for NODWIN Gaming, one that could redefine the future of esports events and IPs. With StarLadder’s experience and NODWIN’s ambitious vision, fans can expect some game-changing developments in the esports space. Whether it’s new high-profile events, more global collaborations, or exciting new esports IPs, the future looks incredibly bright.

For NODWIN, this move is more than just a strategic acquisition—it’s a bold statement of intent to dominate the global esports landscape. And for esports fans, it means better events, bigger productions, and more unforgettable experiences. Stay tuned—because NODWIN and StarLadder are just getting started!


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