Games

NODWIN Gaming acquires Starladder ahead of 2025 events

BBG News

NODWIN Gaming’s sixth acquisition since 2024 brings StarLadder into the fold.

NODWIN, a company under Nazara Technologies’ umbrella, has taken a major step forward in the esports world by purchasing StarLadder. This transaction boosts NODWIN’s global influence within gaming and offers StarLadder more resources as they prepare to make a comeback in Counter-Strike in 2025.

StarLadder joins NODWIN’s expanding acquisition portfolio

Since 2011, StarLadder, a Ukrainian organizer of gaming tournaments, has been an important figure in the world of Counter-Strike. Although no events have been hosted since 2019, it was recently announced that StarLadder intends to organize several events throughout the years 2025 and 2026. According to reports, this schedule will likely feature the second major event of 2025.

NODWIN Gaming has acquired StarLadder for an initial $5.5 million, with further payments contingent on performance goals. Roman Romantsov, the founder of StarLadder, will remain at the helm and also join NODWIN’s shareholders. This strategic move strengthens NODWIN’s capacity to organize premium esports events globally.

In today’s world of interconnectedness and collaboration, the harmonious blending of resources, skills, and aspirations is the key to prosperity and progress. We are excited to have teamed up with associates who align with our vision and goals. Alongside NODWIN Gaming, StarLadder aims to provide exceptional gaming experiences for fans, organizing remarkable events in various games and locations worldwide. Keep an eye out for what lies ahead!

Roman Romantsov, Founder of StarLadder

NODWIN Gaming’s ongoing global expansion strategy

Since 2024, NODWIN has made six acquisitions, including the latest one with StarLadder. This expansion, fueled by investments from Nazara Technologies, is aimed at making NODWIN a significant player in all areas of esports worldwide. Previously, they acquired AFK Gaming for INR 7.6 Crore ($910,000), a mix of cash and stock swaps. With StarLadder and AFK Gaming under its wing, NODWIN aims to establish itself as a leading force in esports marketing and production.

Ties to ESL FACEIT Group

I must admit, I’ve been pondering over the recent news about StarLadder’s acquisition and its potential implications on the relationship between NODWIN Gaming and the ESL FACEIT Group. As I’ve learned from HLTV, it seems that ESL Gaming GmbH owns a 1.11% stake in Nazara Technologies, which is the parent company of NODWIN. This investment was made by ESL back in 2018 during their close collaboration with NODWIN in India. Furthermore, it’s interesting to note that several key executives from ESL are also involved in the operations at NODWIN.

Ralf Reichart, who was previously involved with ESL as Co-Founder and CEO, and currently holds the position of CEO at the Esports World Cup Foundation, sits on the board of directors for NODWIN Gaming, as stated in records dated August 2024. The Esports World Cup Foundation collaborates with EFG to arrange the Esports World Cup, a regular client for NODWIN’s various ventures, such as the public relations department of AFK Gaming.

Merlin Wiedeking, who was previously employed at ESL, now holds the position of CEO at NODWIN International. Additionally, Niels Wolter and others have joined the executive team at the company. The recent association of another tournament organizer with the EFG (ESL FACEIT Group) and the Saudi Public Investment Fund has raised some eyebrows due to the significant influence that the formation of the ESL FACEIT Group had on the CS:GO scene, essentially establishing a duopoly in the industry.

As a dedicated gamer, I can’t wait to dive back into the world of Counter-Strike with StarLadder’s return in September! The action will heat up at the StarSeries Fall 2025 event held in Hungary. This tournament is set to introduce StarLadder’s Double Elimination format, adding an extra layer of excitement to the competition. With a Major tournament scheduled towards the end of the year, this event promises to be a significant stepping stone for CS:GO enthusiasts like myself!

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2025-02-01 22:10

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