#Call of Duty eSports team

[jadeannbyrne]

Rising to Elite IV – Jade Ann Byrne & The Jadettes in CODM Ranked Play

Rising to Elite IV – Jade Ann Byrne & The Jadettes in CODM Ranked Play Strap in, soldiers. This is your Commander, Jade Ann Byrne, bringing you the tale of a mission where the eGirl4Rent PMC became an elite force on the battlefield, ranking up not just into Elite III, but pushing forward into the revered Elite IV in Call of Duty Mobile’s ranked play. As the leader of “The Jadettes,” the hottest…

[egirl4rent]

eGirl4Rent PMC: Official Press Release – Call of Duty Mobile Recruitment

eGirl4Rent PMC: Official Press Release – Call of Duty Mobile Recruitment For Immediate Release California HQ, eGirl4Rent PMC – We are thrilled to announce that Paladin Jade and the eGirl4Rent Paladinarinas are actively recruiting for Call of Duty Mobile, where we merge our elite skills as a private military corporation with the competitive, adrenaline-pumping action of eSports. Yes, you heard…

[thissying]

interview with Gianni Vecchio, about Max

In the meantime, for five years now Vecchio has been part of Verstappen's sim racing team, which got an extra Verstappen-mark last year by it becoming part of Verstappen.com Racing. When he got the invitation in 2018, he could barely believe it. "It was bizar, I was a bit starstruck to be honest," Vecchio begins his exclusive interview with Motorsport.com. "But through the years we've built a sort of friendship. It's not that we see him as a Formula 1 driver all the time, we see him more as a Team Redline team mate. We spend a lot of time together, we practice together a lot. But we also have a lot of fun. It's not just sim racing. We play FIFA together a lot, we play Call of Duty a lot, we play games like Among Us. A friendship has developed. We share a lot of the same interests. It's cool to have someone like him as your team mate, but also as a friend because he keeps pushing you. That's the most important thing in sim racing and sports in general. So yeah, that's not so bad, it's always good to have someone who pushes you."

Not only in the simulator does Verstappen turn out to be competitive, in FIFA he also regularly defeats his Team Redline team mates. "Max wants to be the best in everything he does," Vecchio knows from experience. "He has a few friends in FIFA eSports, named Team Gullit. He plays with them, so he gets tips on the skills he can perform. He's in it completely. When he plays, he's crazy about FIFA. He's the best because he puts the most time in it and has access to the best players," the sim racer laughs.

For Team Redline that mentality is actually one of the big advantages of having Verstappen as a team mate, states Vecchio. "Like I said, it's about having someone who pushes you. If he sees you're making an effort and you really show you want to advance the team and yourself and that you have the same goal of winning everything as he does, then he's one of the best people you can meet," Vecchio praises the two time world champion. "He gives a lot. It's incredible to have someone like that, who pushes you, gives you tips and is also a sort of mentor."

Team Redline has created a safe space for all sim racers and real life racers so they can communicate with each other. That's also why Vecchio considers himself a friend of Verstappen. "It's not like we see each other often during the year, but fact is we are in touch every day.

We send messages to each other and are in voice chat channels. We talk about what's going on in his life but he's also interested in what happens in our lives. He continues to ask what we do, what's on the calendar, what we're doing. That's pretty cool. You know there's someone on the other end who cares about you. Talking to him is like talking to a good friend. It's like we developed a friendship, we know that there's trust and respect for each other. That's something that helps us very much in the team, to have a safe space. It's just great to have that."

And yet, it's not only a positive thing to have Verstappen as a team mate. It happens sometimes that the Dutchman sets a fastest lap in no-time with very little practice. "I wouldn't say it's a bad thing, but sometimes it can be annoying!" Vecchio laughs. "He'll come back from a Formula 1 weekend and we let him know what combination [car and circuit] we're driving. Within five minutes Max Verstappen is P1. And I'm like: 'What's happening here? What am I doing wrong?' He's annoyingly adept at everything he does. I wouldn't say it's irritating but it is something that gets on my nerves sometimes!", he jokes.

On the other hand, Vecchio knows that it's because of his skills that Verstappen makes a good team mate. He's therefore learned a lot from the Red Bull Racing driver in his five years at Ream Redline. "Keep pushing yourself, never give up and even if you're not at 100 percent, then try to find the other one or two percent," the sim racer cites as examples of the things he learned from Verstappen. "Keep pushing beyond your limits in sim racing. Stay focused, keep chasing your goals and stay motivated in everything you do," he rounds off the list.

That's how a lot of knowledge came to the sim racers, but have they been able to teach Verstappen some things? "That's hard to say," laughs Vecchio. "Racing-wise he's a complete driver, he knows what to do in every car. It's not that he's only good in a Formula 1 car, sometimes he tests a GT-car and he's incredible in that, too. As far as racing is concerned, we couldn't teach him very much." Still, Vecchio can name one thing, although that's more to do with the principles of sim racing. "At first, he wasn't a sim racer like we are. We had to explain a little how it works when it comes to managing traffic in multi-class races. Maybe that was something we could teach him a little, but we benefit a lot from him, more than he does from us," the Italian German points out.

That's why Vecchio emphasises that Verstappen's influence on the team should not be underestimated. "It's incredible, really insane. It's like a crane lifting an 8 tons object, that's how I see it. He pushes us, creates opprtunities for us with Heineken, Red Bull, Verstappen.com... He pushes us to the limit because he sees the talent in us. He is like a mentor, he wants to help everyone move forward. It's incredible and cool to see, but the same goes for Atze [Kerkhof, team manager], for everyone in the team. We push each other, but Max is the one who really gives that last 10 percent extra when it comes to pushing.

Because of his busy F1 schedule, Verstappen can't always be found in the simulator. The Dutchman likes spending his free time sim racing and so takes part in special events like 12h Bathurst or 24h Le Mans. Even when he can't participate in those races, he'll be busy behind the scenes to support Team Redline, Vecchio reveals. "Call me crazy, but it's insane. Max has a gaming laptop with all the simulator games: F1, iRacing, anything. When he has time... and call me crazy but it happens every week like that! We're at home with a steering wheel and pedals and he's doing it with a controller. A controller, iRacing, a simulation game, very difficult... Even though he can't really give us feedback, he tries what he can to help us ahead. So it doesn't matter if he's on the road or at home. It doesn't matter. Whatever he has scheduled, he'll practice with us - even if he can't race with us. It doesn't matter to him because he wants to help the team forward. That says it all."

Even though the controller doesn't give nearly the same feedback as a steering wheel and pedals, Verstappen, even on a controller, is hardly inferior to his Team Redline team mates. "It's insane. I always thought talent is in the legs and arms but he even has it in his fingers!" As an example, Vecchio cites the preparation for iRacing's 24h Spa, which was held in the same weekend as the Hungarian GP. "We did a race and he was only three tenths slower! On a controller, compared to us. Can you imagine? Three tenths, on a controller, for an entire stint! It's not over one lap, but several laps. That's bizarre."

[txttletale]

i'll actually in a limited capacity defend the overwatch league's regional teams gimmick but the execution was bad. having regional teams could have been hype. like--during astralis' 2018-2019 csgo run, danish esports fans went fucking insane for them. and like of course they did. there's inherently something exciting about having a team you can in some way 'identify' with. and geography does create natural sports rivalries and pre-writes your stories.

there were two glaring bad problems in the dumb way blizzard did this though. one is forcing teams to come up with brand new branding. this was a horrible idea. it forced well-established esports organizations with strong fanbases across different games like cloud9 and optic to try and build new brands up from scratch. they realized this with their call of duty leage where they let teams play as 'atlanta faze' and 'optic texas' but yknow. kind of too little too late

the other one (and this is also the glaring fatal flaw in the overwatch league's entire silly, silly business plan) is the idea of a global league. now if you don't know much about esports you might think 'wait whats wrong with that. its gaming you can do it online players can be anywhere'. however that's not true! first of all, esports--well esports doesn't make money, esports when managed correctly is essentially a loss leader for the game it's an esport for--but esports makes a lot of its money on live events. yeah, people go to see esports games:

much more importantly, ping is a huge factor in esports. the higher the level you're playing at, especially in a game like overwatch that's full of twitchy hitscan aiming, the more a 10ms latency difference can make or break a game. you need to be running in-person events in order to have a competitive esports league and to make a good chunk of your revenue.

and that means that a global esports league runs into the exact same problem a global normal sports league would run into and the reason why that doesn't exist, which is travel logistics. the overwatch league has a london team, a san francisco team, and a chengdu team. these cities are very far away from each other [citation needed] and although overwatch league people will often blame covid for ruining their plans, i honestly think it actually saved them by preventing the horrible idea they had for how the league would work from actually happening. imagine all the problems that travel causes in a league like the NBA--jet lag, exhaustion, the obvious budgetary expenditure. now imagine that the travel itinerary also includes flights across the atlantic and/or pacific.

that's not even all! the thing about esports is that, because practicing for ten hours a day doesn't physically destroy your body like it would for regular sports, esports players and teams... do that. if you spend seventeen hours on a plane from paris to hangzhou for a match that's seventeen hours where you're not practicing. when you arrive, you can't just stay at a hotel--you need to be able to practice in the days leading up to the match too, especially because it's esports, which means the game can change. if you miss some practice as a sports team, you're gonna be rusty--if you miss some practice as an esports team, the rules of the game might have literally changed since your last practice session.

the result of this, by the way, is that the london and paris teams have never been actually based in europe--and that right now the dallas team is based in korea. it is very silly. every other multinational esport ever invented has created regional leagues--league of legends has a league for korea, china, europe, north america, pacific, vietnam, brazil, japan, and latin america. but blizzard entertainment are god's special little gamers and they weren't going to let something like 'the ocean' get in the way of their global league dream.

and ultimately this means that the entire local team concept was pointless. most of the teams aren't locally based. and even if they were -- the madcap way they play against each other mean that those city affiliations don't matter. when manchester united play liverpool f.c., even if you are not a big football fan, if you're from manchester you presumably have an opinion of liverpool and liverpudlians, and vice versa. there is an emotional hook to latch on to. if manchester united were to play khon khaen united, you would probably say 'where the fuck is khon khaen'. for the localisation to work, the overwatch league's london team needed a manchester or glasgow or dublin or amsterdam or brussels team (etc.) to play against. if you're invested in the esport itself and the players, you can get invested in a philadelphia-london or chengdu-houston rivalry--but the localisation aspect of it isn't doing the work it should there.

tldr: the overwatch league was a bad idea ever since the moment it was announced. people are too harsh on the team localization idea but the way it was executed was hot garbage and it's no wonder this entire venture failed badly

[mariacallous]

Can a video game teach you to resist disinformation?

The U.S. government certainly thinks so: In May, the State Department’s Global Engagement Center (GEC), the government agency tasked with countering foreign disinformation, released a request for proposal offering $1 million for “an evergreen game in a sandbox platform, with an existing fan base, in which participants play a game that builds cognitive resilience to authoritarianism and promotes democratic norms and values.” The call for a sandbox platform refers to open, multiplayer game spaces such as Minecraft, Roblox, or Fortnite, which allow players to build forts, explore virtual worlds, experience short stories, and share experiences. This request is asking for proposals to use creative mode in Fortnite (or a similar platform) to design a custom game experience—only instead of being fun, it is meant to train people to resist Russian disinformation.

It’s an intriguing way to combat an existential challenge for democracy. Can play undermine lies more effectively than speech does? There is a lot about this idea that is compelling, but there are just as many reasons to be skeptical.

The GEC’s idea certainly has some validity. It wants to leverage the emerging field of prebunking—the art of making people aware of disinformation before they encounter it—to help build media literacy skills and contribute to online safety. This is a process that researchers call “inoculation,” which treats disinformation like a virus: You need to train your psychological immune system, so to speak, to learn how to identify and reject bad information. Researchers have suggested different methods for this, ranging from a very literal metaphor of exposing people to “weakened” forms of common disinformation up to complex media literacy training intended to prepare people to identify disinformation on their own.

Using games as part of the battle over information isn’t new. The United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism has an entire project devoted to understanding the role of video games in what the U.N. calls “countering violent extremism.” Late last year, the Swedish Psychological Defense Agency—which, like the GEC, is empowered to combat foreign disinformation—sponsored research into foreign political interference that uses video games. And the European Journalism Observatory has highlighted video games, specifically, as a vector for disinformation during Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine.

So, the GEC is addressing a serious problem with global implications. And the sandbox anti-disinformation proposal is not the only video game program that the agency is funding. As Aftermath reports, it is also offering $250,000 for a program at the U.S. Embassy in Ukraine that will use the process of building an esports team and hosting an esports tournament to provide “counter disinformation/conflict resolution training to confront foreign propaganda and disinformation in competitive online gaming spaces.” While these sums may seem high, a typical “indie” game (one that is not developed by a major studio) can cost a million dollars or more, and so-called AAA games (such as Grand Theft Auto, Fallout, or Call of Duty) can cost hundreds of millions of dollars to develop.

One challenge that inoculation programs face is establishing success conditions. After all, how do you know when someone is successfully protected against disinformation? There is no good answer for this yet—we can design experiments and surveys to measure how messages are being accepted or rejected by a population, but—like other preventative measures—success is negative. You know the program worked if you don’t see people repeating disinformation, rather than knowing it worked because some tangible finish line has been crossed. It is a problem requiring constant vigilance. In that sense, the GEC’s call for an evergreen (permanent) game to counter disinformation is aligned with broad aspects of disinformation research.

But is a game the best way to do this? For decades, games studies have adopted an argument put forth by Dutch cultural historian Johan Huizinga in the 1930s: Games and play are essential to civilization, because they (however unintentionally) teach children how to socialize and move within rules-based systems in a mirror of society.

Building on those ideas, media theorist Ian Bogost coined the term “procedural rhetoric” in the 2000s to argue that video games instruct players to view the world through a certain set of rules and to discard others—even when trying to “break” a game system, he argued, players are still learning how rules and games work. If one accepts this line of argument, then it would naturally follow that an effort to design a game to inoculate against disinformation has the potential to be highly effective.

There are some problems with this approach. The research into so-called serious games, which are games intended to do something other than entertain, suggests that they are the most effective when they are also fun to play. This is a bit of a contradiction, since a serious game is not made with entertainment as its primary purpose, and that is reflected in the GEC’s call. There is no mention of the evergreen game being fun for its players. The agency, understandably, is focused on the outcomes of the game, not the game itself. But making serious games fun is a hard challenge that researchers are still working on, and without it, the effectiveness of any serious game will be limited.

The fun challenge has plagued efforts to use video games to do achieve goals in foreign policy, statecraft, and human rights since the start of the 21st century. Games such as the International Committee of the Red Cross’s LifeRun (2020) or 11 Bit Studio’s This War of Mine (2011) try to cultivate in players a concern for civilians in warfare. The Lebanese militant group Hezbollah released Special Force (2003) so players can battle against Israeli soldiers in South Lebanon, and Fursan Al-Aqsa (2022), places players in the shoes of a Palestinian student who seeks revenge on the Israeli soldiers who tortured him in prison. Fursan is available on Steam, an online video game marketplace used by players around the world that (relevant for the GEC grants) also restricts sales in Russia and Belarus due to sanctions stemming from Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.

Militaries have used games for propaganda, too, from America’s Army (2002) to China’s Glorious Mission (2011). Some of these games went nowhere. (Hezbollah, for instance, did not make a fun game.) But others, such as America’s Army, endured for decades because they were fun—and that game became fun by abandoning some of its more serious pretensions as new editions were published.

While it is clear that the GEC is drawing on a large number of precedents, ideas, and projects, is there evidence that any of it works? After studying the Red Cross’s LifeRun game, which seems to be a close analog to the GEC’s call for proposals, scholar Jolene Fisher concluded that there are structural limits to what these games can be expected to do, given their small distribution and limited scale. In a recent report, the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace observed that initiatives to support local journalism and media literacy education were far more effective at undermining disinformation than statecraft or counter-messaging, but the former are also much more difficult to fund, implement, and scale.

Bogost, the media scholar, reflected in 2018 on his experience trying to make “persuasive games” and concluded the concept was more promise than delivery. “It was emotion and novelty that drove much of the interest in this work,” he wrote, not concrete or supportable projects. It could be that games are just an accessible channel to do this work compared to more effective methods.

There are broader issues with the GEC’s plans, too. I wrote my Ph.D. dissertation on the U.S. Army Esports (USAE) team, an effort launched in 2018 in an attempt to use esports to bolster years of flagging recruitment. The U.S. Defense Department certainly seems to be convinced that the team has been effective in growing its recruiting pipeline and boosting morale, however controversial it may be. But it also does not release data to support its claims of effectiveness, and in 2023, the Army announced a major overhaul of the recruiting process due to multiple consecutive years of missing enlistment goals. If the USAE is effective at growing recruitment, that growth was hard to see. (The service claims that it is on track to meet a much lower recruiting goal in 2024).

I wasn’t alone in observing the limited effects that games on influencing thinking. A couple of years ago, games scholar Philip Hammond observed that decades of U.S. military influence on video games has coincided with declining recruiting and less public trust. If games can persuade people, it’s hard to see how.

This does not mean that such programs are a failure, nor does it mean that the GEC’s program is futile. Rather, it indicates that, as Bogost cautioned, we should be clear about the gap between promise and delivery, and mindful of where that gap emerges.

The GEC’s success in persuading social media companies to moderate away Islamist extremist content on their platforms (the most effective way to counter disinformation, according to researchers) suggests that it sometimes can do this work effectively. After all, while the growing presence of extremists in video games is a real concern, it is the community and discourse around games where that extremism tends to emerge, not within the storylines and play of the games themselves.

Games scholar Sky LaRell Anderson calls these conversations “extraludic narratives,” and in studying them found that they form an important basis for building communities around sharing gameplay experiences. Such a dynamic leaves open the potential for the GEC’s sponsored esports team in Ukraine to influence some of those narratives about Russia, or even to cultivate a community of resistance against Russian narratives in Ukraine’s Esports spaces. But researchers find this dynamic hard for outsiders to understand in real time, much less to intentionally shape beforehand. Governments just aren’t cool, and the USAE’s own engagement scandals point to the many scenarios where government sponsorship might be a poison pill.

The GEC has experienced this with its other efforts to counter disinformation. Its successful campaign to contain Islamist disinformation online, when applied to countering Russian disinformation, resulted in the center being subjected to unfair, partisan attacks by far-right politicians in the United States. Republicans in the House of Representatives tried last year to block the center’s budgetary reauthorization, falsely claiming that it targeted conservatives for censorship. Embattled Rep. Darrell Issa disputed the need for a counter-disinformation agency and claimed that the GEC had no successes to justify its budget despite the agency’s successful work countering disinformation.

The dishonest nature of these attacks points to a difficult political environment emerging for the agency. It could be the case that sponsoring games and gaming events is all that the agency has left if platform governance has become closed off by toxic right-wing politics. The GEC is a meaningful organization that treats the threat of disinformation with the appropriate seriousness.

But if politics prevent the agency from responding effectively to disinformation in the venues where it can be the most effective, it is hard to blame it for trying something else. Still, we should be cautious and keep our expectations in check: As unfair as the right-wing attacks on the agency are, and as hard as it works to address disinformation globally, those same attacks will also be carried over to the teams and games the agency sponsors.

Even in an ideal environment, there would be modest expectations for such a small program, but those may be impossible to meet. Disinformation is ultimately a political challenge, not a technical one, and the politics of disinformation in the United States have already tied the GEC’s hands. It’s just not clear how this political problem can be solved with a video game.

[shinigami-striker]

The 2024 Game Awards Nominees | Monday, 11.18.24

The upcoming 2024 Game Awards show will premiere on Thursday, December 12, 2024 (in less than a month from now) at the Peacock Theatre in Los Angeles, so we've got less than 24 days to vote for which video game(s) will go home with any award they've been nominated by each category.

But first, the nominees (by category) down below:

Game of the Year:

Astro Bot

Balatro

Black Myth: Wukong

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Metaphor: Refantazio

Best Game Direction:

Astro Bot

Balatro

Black Myth: Wukong

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Metaphor: Refantazio

Best Narrative:

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Metaphor: Refantazio

Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2

Silent Hill 2 (2024)

Best Art Direction

Astro Bot

Black Myth: Wukong

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Metaphor: Refantazio

Neva

Best Score and Music

Astro Bot

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Metaphor: Refantazio

Silent Hill 2 (2024)

Stellar Blade

Best Audio Design:

Astro Bot

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2

Silent Hill 2 (2024)

Best Performance:

Briana White (Final Fantasy VII Rebirth)

Hannah Telle (Life is Strange: Double Exposure)

Humberly Gonzalez (Star Wars: Outlaws)

Luke Roberts (Silent Hill 2 (2024))

Melina Juergens (Senua's Saga Hellblade 2)

Innovation in Accessibility:

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Diablo IV

Dragon Age: The Veilguard

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Star Wars Outlaws

Games for Impact:

Closer the Distance

Indika

Neva

Life is Strange: Double Exposure

Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2

Tales of Kenzera: Zau

Best Ongoing:

Destiny 2

Diablo IV

Final Fantasy XIV

Fortnite

Helldivers 2

Best Community Sport:

Baldur's Gate 3

Final Fantasy XIV

Fortnite

Helldivers 2

No Man's Sky

Best Independent Game:

Animal Well

Balatro

Lorelei and the Laser Eyes

Neva

UFO 50

Best Debut Indie Game:

Animal Well

Balatro

Manor Lords

Pacific Drive

The Plucky Squire

Best Mobile Game:

AFK Journey

Balatro

Pokémon Trading Card Game Pocket

Wuthering Waves

Zenless Zone Zero

Best VR / AR:

Arizona Sunshine Remake

Asgard's Wrath 2

Batman: Arkham Shadow

Metal: Hellsinger VR

Metro Awakening

Best Action Game:

Black Myth: Wukong

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Helldivers 2

Stellar Blade

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

Best Action / Adventure:

Astro Bot

Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

Silent Hill 2

Star Wars: Outlaws

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

Best RPG:

Dragon's Dogma 2

Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree

Final Fantasy VII Rebirth

Like A Dragon: Infinite Wealth

Metaphor: Refantazio

Best Fighting:

Dragon Ball: Sparking! Zero

Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising

Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics

MultiVersus

Tekken 8

Best Family:

Astro Bot

Princess Peach: Showtime!

Super Mario Party Jamboree

The Legend of Zelda: Echoes of Wisdom

The Plucky Squire

Best Sim / Strategy:

Age of Mythology: retold

Frostpunk 2

Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess

Manor Lords

Unicorn Overlord

Best Sports / Racing:

F1 24

EA Sports FC 25

NBA 2K25

Top Spin 2K25

WWE 2K24

Best Multiplayer:

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6

Helldivers 2

Super Mario Party Jamboree

Tekken 8

Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2

Best Adaption:

Arcane

Fallout

Knuckles

Like A Dragon: Yakuza

Tomb Raider: The Legend of Lara Croft

Most Anticipated Game:

Death Stranding 2: On the Beach

Ghost of Yotei

Grand Theft Auto VI

Metroid Prime 4: Beyond

Monster Hunter Wilds

Content Creator of the Year:

Caseoh

Illojuan

Techo Gamerz

Typical Gamer

Usada Pekora

Best Esports Game:

Counter-Strike 2

DOTA 2

League of Legends

Mobile Legends: Bang Bang

Valorant

Best Esports Athlete:

33

Aleksib

Chovy

Faker

Zywoo

ZMJJKK

Best Esports Team:

BiliBili Gaming (League of Legends)

Gen.G (League of Legends)

NAVI (Counter-Strike 2)

T1 (League of Legends)

Team Liquid (DOTA 2)

...and more to come before the upcoming Game Awards in the coming weeks!

[hils79]

Hils Watches Cross Fire - Ep 1

Apparently this year is the year I watch all the esports dramas. Don't know a huge amount about this one but it's been on my to watch list for ages, much like The King's Avatar was. Again, it's got a DMBJ actor I like in it. I will try not to compare the dramas too much

They said the name of the thing in the thing before the opening credits had even started

Ooh I like that the in-game footage is a mixture of live action and animation. That's really fun.

So I'm guessing this is a Call of Duty style game. I'm enjoying the way this is shot

Aww there he is! I do enjoy Wu Lei's dramas. Haven't seen him in a bad one yet so I am hopeful about this one too

I'm guessing King is going to be the antagonist of this story?

Aww did he get into it because of his brother?

I like that his chair has spikes on the handles to stop other people pushing him. Little way of showing he wants to do things for himself.

This is how we know it's a flashback

I don't know who flashback kid is but apparently his girlfriend broke up with him and married a rich dude because she didn't consider esports a real job. I'm sure this will become relevant later.

Oh my god he has a hat with his own name on it. He has to be the antagonist. What a douche.

"In this team who you are related to is more important than what you can do." God, I hope he finds a better less capitalist team to play for

Of course they do. Because his dad is an investor.

Oh please tell them to fuck off

YES! Destroy them!

Apparently flashback kid is Time Raiders Wu Xie. I have blocked most of Time Raiders from my mind (apart from the stupid dancing to escape a trap scene)

I don't know how old Xiao Feng is supposed to be but he's older than their 22 year old youngest player. I thought he was a teenager.

I don't even know you and I know you're lying. You totally took the substitute deal and you're going to throw the game, I can tell.

Okay, I was wrong about throwing the game but GASP they falsely accused him of cheating. I'm not even joking I did legit gasp

This is even worse than him throwing the game. HE WAS YOUR BRO!

Okay, really don't like his dad manhandling him and even bathing him without even asking

Ah, I'm seeing some parallels between him and Xiao Feng

Oh my god is he going to start gaming on his old Windows XP laptop after his dad confiscated his computer? Will that even run a modern game?

Ah, he's 25. I suppose that is quite old in terms of pro esports careers

"We need to save electricity because we're broke but I'm now going to lie in bed clicking the lamp on and off repeatedly because I'm sad."

Okay, I don't know who has time travelled or even if anyone has time travelled but apparently internet magic has enabled them to meet in-game. This is FUN.

Aww Xiao Feng made it as a pro gamer in the end. I assume he's still alive in Liu Xiaobei's time. Can he go and meet up with the older version of this dude he just met?

Well, that sounds familiar

I love that that's the conclusion he reaches and not that someone is just fucking with him. I could tell someone it was 2008 now and back it up with facts because I was in my 20s then.

That was fun! Wasn't expecting the wibbly wobbly timey wimey stuff. I really should read the synopsis for a drama before I start it

[saturnite0614]

No feeling quite like the feeling you get when you write gay call of duty stories and the guy in front if you in your comm class is on a call of duty esports team.

Bonus points: he hates new cod

[starxcrosser]

ChouGAMER!! Pretty Cure Info Post

This is not comprehensive, and I'm missing a lot of nomenclature for transformation items, finishers, and alternate forms/styles. I'm also lacking visual references for a few of the villains.

Let's start with the Cures!

The Pretty Cure are the legendary gamers of Virtua Land, who even have a temple to enshrine the new incarnations of each of the four Legends. The temple is overseen by the Grand Wizard, whose duty is to find the next generation of Pretty Cure should crisis befall Virtua Land.

To transform, the Cures need two things: their Check Pendant, a necklace/communicator that contains their "save data", and one of three Game Cards, devices that resemble train passes and contain the "game data", including a piece of equipment unique to each Cure. Every Cure begins at Level 1 and gains EXP via prevailing in combat against the Guricchu. As the "season" progresses, the Cures unlock progressively stronger equipment, finishers, and eventually unlock their second and third Game Cards.

Yuuki Igarashi is our white lead Cure, Cure Legend. Her theme is classic JRPGs such as Final Fantasy and Dragon Quest. Though she strikes a very gyaru-like image, don't be fooled—she's a hardcore gamer, though she initially keeps that side of herself hidden from her classmates. Her friends call her Yuu-tan. Her initial Game Card is Innocent Fantasy, which comes with the equipment Brave Sword.

Yuuki is 5'3", weighs 104 pounds, has an AB blood type, and her three sizes are 83-57-84. She is 16 at the start of the "season", and her birthday is January 1st.

Kaya Karizaki is our blue Cure, Cure Bullet. Her theme is shooter games, both military-style FPS-es and bullet hell games. Kaya is quite egotistical and self-absorbed due to being a champion eSports player, but she's also a fiercely loyal friend who's not afraid to throw hands to protect those she loves. Her initial Game Card is Dangan XX, which comes with the equipment Buster Shot K.

Kaya is 5'5", weighs 113 pounds, has an O blood type, and her three sizes are 82-55-82. She is 17 at the start of the "season", and her birthday is October 10th.

Mika Hayase is our red Cure, Cure Turbo. Her theme is racing games, specifically arcade-style racing games. In comparison to the outgoing Yuuki and the loud, boisterous Kaya, Mika is extremely shy and difficult to approach, let alone talk to. Her family owns an auto repair shop with an attached junkyard, and she's spent several years working on cars and fixing up junkers for her parents to sell. Despite her shyness, she gets extremely intense when playing racing games. Mika's initial Game Card is Gekisou Full Throttle, which comes with the equipment Turbo Rusher.

Mika is 5'4", weighs 119 pounds, has an A- blood type, and her three sizes are 87-58-89. She is 18 at the start of the "season", and her birthday is on August 8th.

Ren Tatsumaki is our yellow Cure, Cure Dragon. Her theme is fighting games, specifically arcade-style fighting games. Ren is a strange individual in every conceivable way, from being notably very tall to not understanding what should be basic common knowledge. Frankly speaking, she's simply an eccentric weirdo that's difficult to understand, but her skill at fighting games is unmatched. Ren's initial Game Card is Kachidoki Prizefight, which comes with the equipment Champion Knuckle.

Ren is 5'10" and weighs 122 pounds, has a B+ blood type, and her three sizes are 80-56-82. She is 17 at the start of the "season", and her birthday is on July 7th.

Fia is our mid-season redeemed villain purple Cure, Cure Fever. Her theme is twofold: rhythm games and puzzle games. As a former agent of the Guricchu, Fia has a difficult time understanding almost everything about human culture, and her seeming inability to express emotion compounds that. If you do get a rise out of her, woe unto you.

Fia is 5'2" and weighs ??? pounds, has a ?? blood type, and her three sizes are ??-??-??. She is ?? at the time she joins the team, and her birthday is on November 11th.

Arcade is not a Cure in and of herself, but rather is the Cures' token helper from another world. She's a level 1000 Grand Wizard and keeper of the Legendary Temple in Virtua Land, which has been invaded by the Guricchu. As the keeper of the Legendary Temple, it falls to Arcade to find the four Legendary Gamers, the Pretty Cure, and save Virtua Land.

Arcade is a prodigy, being the youngest Grand Wizard in Virtua Land's history, and that comes with a bit of an ego. However, she cares deeply about games, and Virtua Land as a whole, and as such takes her position as aide to the Legendary Gamers very seriously. She also talks quite archaically, funnily enough.

Arcade is 4'9", weighs 94 pounds, has a ?? blood type, and her three sizes are 78-54-79. She is ??? at the start of the "season", and her birthday is December 12th.

Now for some villains!

The villains in ChouGAMER!! Precure are the Guricchu, an insectoid alien race that harvest negative feelings that stem from people playing video games, whether it's anger, sadness, or anything else. The monsters they summon are called Fukoheida, and the grunts that accompany Fukoheida are called Chumins.

Gokipunch is the first and most prominent general in the "season". Though quite weak at first, Alphan's philosophy of winning through trickery spoke to her, and she opportunistically took advantage of several moments of weakness among her higher-ups to get promoted to one of Alphan's generals, something unheard of among her caste of Guricchu.

Gokipunch is quite mean-spirited, often mocking the Cures or picking at their individual insecurities to get them to falter in battle. She also has the ability to inflict [Charm] status on civilians, causing them to follow her orders until the spell is broken. Her Fukoheida have her antennae and bright pink eyes, while her Chumins are all cockroach-inspired. Gokipunch herself is loosely themed on dating sims and visual novels.

Mothrom is the second of Alphan's generals to appear. Though seemingly disinterested and lethargic, she's arguably more sadistic and cruel than Gokipunch, using her associated [Poison] status on civilians and Cures alike to harvest higher quantities of negative energy and summon stronger Fukoheida.

Mothrom is loosely themed around tabletop games, and many of the Fukoheida she summons are with the aid of painted miniatures that she's often shown working on during the "episodes" she appears in.

Fear is Fia pre-redemption, and serves as the first dark/evil Cure figure for the girls to fight. Her battle form is themed off of horror games, from slasher thrillers to zombie games to survival horror. Eventually, she's defeated by the ChouGAMER!! team and later joins them.

Deadhand is the second humanoid general and quasi-dark/evil Cure figure. Deadhand is Alphan's hunting dog of sorts, and is originally summoned to recapture Fia and bring her back, but eventually Alphan orders them to destroy the Precure. The resemblance to Kaya is quite uncanny, and mentioned several times over the course of the "season". Deadhand's combat abilities are themed around card games, and they have a deck of ability cards they swipe through the card reader on their wrist to fight with.

Alphan is the leader of the Guricchu. She shows a fondness and even care for her subordinates, but when it comes to Earth and particularly the Precure (and those they love), the best way to describe her is heartless and cruel. At the end of the day, she wants them to suffer and harvest their energy.

[ry-reviews]

Team Vitality : La fierté de la France aux pas chancelants

Préambule

            Quand on a une culture à représenter, il faut prouver. Quand on est la première structure française, il faut prouver. Quand on a un ensemble de fan, dévoué et amoureux du maillot, derrière nous, il faut prouver. Quitte à décevoir, quitte à faire des choix, quitte à dépenser des millions, il faut prouver. Prouver qu’on est les meilleurs, que personne ne fédère autant que nous, qu’on est la fierté de la France, ce grand pays, cette nation au cœur arrogant et à la population compétitive. Prouver que, au même titre qu’au football, qu’au volley, qu’au handball, on est capable de rivaliser, non, de dominer les autres pays. C’est dans cette optique qu’une structure, reconnaissable par ses couleurs jaunes et noires, Team Vitality s’est lancé dans l’eSport avec un seul but : prouver au monde que la France aussi est la meilleure dans l’eSport.

Introduction

En 2013, à l’époque où l’eSport était encore une scène de niche, Team Vitality s’est créée. C’est suite à l’impulsion de quatre jeunes hommes, dont encore les très connus Fabien « Neo » Devide et Corentin « Gotaga » Houssein, que la structure à l’abeille est née. Elle s’est fondée sur Call of Duty, et uniquement sur ce jeu, avec les membres-fondateurs. Gotaga était joueur pour la structure, Neo était son coach. Mais très vite, la structure française s’est diversifié sur d’autres jeux, tels que Fifa, Rainbow 6 Siege ou encore League of Legends. C’est en effet après le rachat du slot de Gambit que Vitality officie son arrivée dans la scène européenne de League of Legends, participant aux LCS EU la même année que G2 Esports, en 2016.

La cadence s’accélère lorsqu’en 2017, l’équipe aux abeilles s’étend sur les jeux H1Z1, Player Unknown’s Battleground (PUBG) et enfin Counter-Strike : Global Offensive. Mais cela ne s’arrête pas là, puisqu’un an plus tard, ils investissent dans une équipe sur Rocket League et signent des contrats avec des joueurs Fortnite. En bref, la structure est tentaculaire, en plus d’être touche-à-tout, et cela, sans parler des nombreux ambassadeurs qui diffusent et créent du contenu avec le logo et les vêtements de Vitality.

En termes de succès, Vitality a été couronné championne de l’ESL Pro League en 2016 sur Rainbow 6. La structure s’est créée un nom sur CS-GO avec leur joueur star et français Mathieu « ZywOo » Herbaut, et elle a dans son étagère un titre de champion du monde sur Rocket League datant de 2019. C’est une écurie française forte de son succès et qui compte parmi ses rangs de nombreux ultras, prêt à défendre bec et ongle leur structure (même quand il s’agit de défier le mur bleu de la Karmine Corp.). Mais qu’en est-il sur League of Legends ?

On ne peut pas dire que le succès était au rendez-vous dès leur entrée en LCS EU. C’était encore une jeune structure qui devait se battre contre le géant Fnatic, quand la structure était la seule impératrice de l’Europe, puis du nouvel arrivant G2, l’antihéros qui déplait à l’ancienne génération. Il n’y avait pas de place pour Vitality, qui s’est tout de même hissé à la troisième place vacante du podium lors de leur premier segment. Néanmoins, c’était un fait qui ne s’était pas reproduit par la suite, l’équipe entamant alors une longue traversée du désert. Puis, 2018 était arrivée.

L’équipe se retrouve à nouveau parmi les grandes structures, retrouvant une place confortable pour les playoffs des segments de printemps et d’été. L’équipe aux abeilles pouvaient remercier Daniele « Jizuke » Di Mauro, l’étalon italien qui a surpris sur la voie du milieu, ainsi que Lucas « Cabochard » Simon-Meslet, vétéran de l’équipe qui a su se remettre aux niveaux des meilleurs toplaners de la ligue. C’est à partir de ce moment-là que la course pour les Mondiaux s’était entamée. En effet, avec les points accumulés au printemps, la structure française était en nette avance pour représenter l’Europe aux Worlds. Et avec la descente aux Enfers de G2 ESports et leur victoire lors de la petite finale face à Misfits, une équipe redoutable qui est parvenue à faire une première moitié de segment sans défaite, l’équipe a été qualifié aux Mondiaux.

Mais parfois, le sort peut s’acharner. Lors du tirage des groupes, l’équipe française s’est trouvé dans une fâcheuse posture, tombant dans le « groupe de la mort » avec le grand favori du tournoi Royal Never Give Up ainsi que l’ancien champion du monde Generation Gaming. Pourtant, ils ont réussi à défier la fortune en remportant deux victoires contre les coréens de Generation Gaming et en faisant subir la première défaite aux hommes d’Uzi, RNG. Si l’histoire ne retiendra pas leur nom, puisqu’ils ont été éliminé lors du « Main-Event », ils ont néanmoins réussi à faire déchanter les ogres coréens et chinois et prouvé au monde entier qu’ils n’étaient pas infaillibles, d’autant plus qu’ils ont triomphé avec leur propre style.

Après 2018, Vitality ne parviendra jamais à trouver sa gloire d’antan. Quand bien même ils dépensent beaucoup d’argents pour leur équipe sur League of Legends, ils ont un gros problème sur le poste de jungler, puisqu’ils ne parviennent pas à trouver un joueur stable sur cette position. C’était un si gros problème que Vitality s’est retrouvé lors de l’été 2022 avec plus de quatre junglers en attente, sans pour autant trouver du succès. L’ensemble des joueurs de 2022 a été un échec. Ce projet de super-équipe n’a pas porté ses promesses, puisque l’équipe n’a pu aller plus haut que la sixième place. Alors, est-ce qu’en 2023, peut-on espérer mieux ?

Pour 2023, la Team Vitality a décidé de faire table rase du passé et de reforger une toute nouvelle équipe. Sur le botside, on a droit alors à Neon qui assurera le rôle d’AD carry. Il est connu pour être un des éléments du succès miraculeux de Misfits lors de 2022, quand bien même il ne joue qu’une poignée de champion. Pour l’accompagner sur la voie du bas, Kaiser sera là pour le supporter. Son entrée en LEC a fait grand bruit grâce à son style de jeu et ses champions uniques. Reste à savoir sur la sauce va prendre et s’il y aura une bonne synergie entre les deux joueurs. Du côté opposé de la carte, la toplane sera officiée par Photon. En effet, le joueur star Alphari a décidé de prendre une pause pour se ressourcer, restant cependant sous contrat avec la structure française. Son remplaçant coréen provient de l’académie T1, connu pour avoir fait émerger des joueurs tels que Zeus, Gumayusi ou encore Oner, dont le talent n’est point à douter. Alors, Photon sera sûrement du même acabit dans une compétition moins compétitive que celle du pays au matin calme. Enfin, pour compléter l’équipe, le jungler sera Bo. En plus d’être une première pour l’Europe, la LEC n’ayant jamais accueilli de joueur de LPL, le joueur est prometteur en plus d’être bourré de talent (On va y revenir.)

Analyse

Parmi les points forts à citer, on peut parler du topside. Photon est un aussi bon joueur de carry que de tanks, ce qui est un élément à ne pas négliger, d’autant plus que le vivier de talents européen à ce rôle est faible. Ensuite, la versatilité qu’apporte Kaiser à son rôle assure la phase de lane en plus d’épauler la voie du milieu. Enfin, tous les postes ont un énorme potentiel de carry individuel, ce qui a de quoi faire pâlir les autres écuries.

Mais il y a des défauts qui contrebalancent tout cela. D’abord, Perkz a de quoi nous interroger. S’il a été à son meilleur niveau chez G2 ESports, le succès n’est pas le même depuis son départ de la structure espagnole, d’autant plus que le niveau sur la voie du milieu n’a fait qu’augmenter depuis son départ. Alors, aussi surprenant que cela puisse paraitre, il est normal de le considérer comme le point faible de son équipe. Maintenant, on peut à tout moment assister à un éveil de son potentiel d’antan, ce qui serait destructeur pour les autres équipes. Ensuite, cela va faire un an et demi que Bo n’a pas participé à un match officiel. Être bon en classé est une chose, mais parvenir à jouer avec une équipe en est une autre. Surtout que l’un ne garantit pas l’autre (on se souviendra du colosse en soloq qu’était Magifelix, mais dont les pieds deviennent argiles quand il participe au circuit compétitif de Riot Games). Enfin, la plus grosse interrogation se trouve dans la barrière de la langue. Avec un Coréen et un Chinois dans leur équipe, la communication pourrait s’avérer compliquée, ce qui est un problème dans un jeu d’équipe tel que League of Legends. Est-ce que le monstre qu’est Bo sera fragilisé par cette barrière ?

VIT Bo – le destructeur venu d’Orient

Bo est un joueur dur à analyser. En effet, à cause de la situation particulière dans laquelle il s’est trouvé en Chine, on se retrouve avec des informations vieilles en plus de décrire une carrière brève. Lorsqu’il était jungler pour FPX, structure chinoise championne du monde, le joueur n’avait aucune défaite au compteur. Il avait une carrière prometteuse, mais son parcours véloce a vite été stoppé à cause d’une sombre affaire de match-fixing en LDL, deuxième division chinoise, et en LPL. Il aurait subi des pressions de son manager pour arranger les matchs qu’ils jouaient afin d’avantager des parieurs. Suite à ces pressions, le joueur a choisi de dénoncer la situation. Malheureusement pour lui, son élan de justicier est un préjudice, puisqu’il écopera d’une punition de 4 mois durant laquelle il a été interdit de jouer des matchs officiels. Suite à cette annonce, et malgré la levée de sa peine, il a été boycotté par les structures chinoises qui ne voulaient pas s’associer à lui et, surtout, à cette histoire. Vitality tirera profit de cette histoire pour lui faire signer un contrat chez eux, le chinois faisant alors le voyage jusqu’en Europe pour jouer dans l’une des ligues majeures.

Maintenant, avec le peu d’informations dont on dispose, il est obligatoire de se pencher sur ses statistiques en classé. Et on s’aperçoit qu’il est capable de tout jouer en plus d’avoir un potentiel de carry remarquable, à tel point qu’il trouve actuellement à la place n°6 du ladder. En plus, d’après ceux qui l’auraient rencontré dans leur partie, il est considéré comme un alien, sortant des mécaniques hors du commun.

Avec les statistiques récoltées sur ses matchs joués en LPL, Bo c’est :

Une participation au « premier sang » de 40%

Un ratio victoire/défaite de 100%

523 de damages par minutes

Un KDA de 5,3

Une participation aux éliminations de 68,5%

Maintenant, il a beau être un monstre, être le plus redoutable des junglers, son talent est caduque s’il ne parvient pas à communiquer dans un bon Anglais avec son équipe. D’autant plus qu’on peut se questionner sur sa synergie avec son nouveau toplaner.

Conclusion

Si on devait faire une analogie du mercato de Vitality, disons simplement qu’ils ont joué un tapis avec leur jeu de cartes. Et ce jeu de cartes peut être le meilleur coup de poker de tous les temps comme peut être une action ridiculement mauvaise. Quand bien même il y a peu de doutes, on peut se demander comment va se porter la synergie sur la voie du bas entre Kaiser et Neon. Enfin, est-ce que Perkz pourra assurer son rôle de carry d’antan ou sera-t-il cantonné à se faire porter par ses équipiers ? Tout ce qu’on peut savoir, c’est que cet ensemble a de quoi être la meilleure équipe que l’Europe n’a jamais portée, dérobant alors le titre à la line-up de G2 ESports en 2019. Cependant, avec tous les doutes que soulèvent cette équipe et avec le passé de la structure française, le futur pour les abeilles reste incertain.

Place attendue : dans le top 6

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Article très long, mais quand on aborde une équipe aussi prestigieuse que Vitality, il faut savoir prendre son temps ! Sur ce, on se retrouve dans deux jours pour un nouvel article et passez une bonne journée/soirée !

[b2bbusiness]

Esports Market: A Comprehensive Analysis and Growth Trends

The esports market has transformed from a niche community into a global phenomenon, attracting millions of players, spectators, and investors. With rapid advancements in technology and widespread digital connectivity, esports has become a lucrative industry, driving significant economic impact across the globe.

What Is the Esports Market?

Esports, or electronic sports, refers to competitive video gaming where players or teams compete in organized tournaments, often for substantial prizes. Popular game titles such as League of Legends, Dota 2, and Counter-Strike have created massive global audiences, making esports a mainstream form of entertainment.

The market encompasses:

Game Publishers: The companies that develop and publish video games.

Teams and Players: Professional gamers who compete at regional, national, and international levels.

Streaming Platforms: Services like Twitch, YouTube Gaming, and Facebook Gaming that enable fans to watch live gameplay.

Sponsorships and Advertising: Brands collaborating with teams, tournaments, and content creators to reach engaged audiences.

Market Growth Drivers

Several factors contribute to the exponential growth of the esports market:

Digital Transformation Esports thrives on online connectivity. Faster internet speeds, cloud gaming, and high-performance gaming platforms have facilitated competitive gaming on a global scale.

Rising Popularity of Streaming Platforms Platforms like Twitch and YouTube have created vibrant communities where gamers and fans connect. These platforms are pivotal in driving viewer engagement and boosting esports’ visibility.

Investment and Sponsorships Major companies, including Coca-Cola, Intel, and Nike, are heavily investing in esports, recognizing its potential for advertising and brand engagement. Sponsorships provide a significant revenue stream for esports organizations.

Audience Growth The global esports audience surpassed 500 million viewers in 2023, with projections indicating further growth. Asia-Pacific, North America, and Europe lead in viewership, driven by local tournaments and international championships.

Integration with Traditional Sports Esports tournaments are now hosted in iconic sports venues, and many traditional sports organizations are entering the esports market. For example, NBA teams have formed esports divisions, bridging the gap between digital and physical sports.

Key Market Segments

The esports industry is segmented based on revenue streams:

Media Rights: Deals allowing broadcasters to stream tournaments and games.

Sponsorships and Advertising: The largest revenue contributor, with brands targeting esports’ youthful demographic.

Ticket Sales and Merchandise: Revenue from live event attendance and branded products.

Game Publisher Fees: Income generated by publishers through licensing and hosting tournaments.

Regional Insights

Asia-Pacific

Asia-Pacific dominates the esports market, with countries like China, South Korea, and Japan at the forefront. Government support, extensive infrastructure, and a large gaming community drive growth in this region.

North America

The U.S. is a key player in the esports market, with professional leagues such as the Overwatch League and Call of Duty League. Major universities are also offering esports scholarships, further legitimizing the industry.

Europe

European countries like Germany, the UK, and Sweden are rapidly expanding their esports ecosystems. High-speed internet and government incentives contribute to the sector's growth.

Rest of the World

Emerging markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America are witnessing a surge in esports activity due to rising smartphone penetration and affordable internet access.

Challenges in the Esports Market

While the esports market is booming, it faces challenges such as:

Sustainability of Revenue Models: Reliance on sponsorships and advertising may limit long-term stability.

Player Burnout: The intense competition and frequent tournaments can lead to physical and mental health issues for professional players.

Regulatory Uncertainty: Different countries have varying regulations regarding gaming and esports, impacting growth and operations.

Future Trends

Integration of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) As VR and AR technologies improve, they could enhance gameplay experiences, creating new opportunities in esports.

Blockchain and NFTs in Gaming Blockchain technology and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) may revolutionize in-game assets, ownership, and monetization strategies.

Expansion into Mobile Esports Mobile gaming is becoming a dominant force, especially in emerging markets. Titles like PUBG Mobile and Free Fire are leading the charge.

Increased Female Participation With inclusivity on the rise, more female gamers and teams are entering the competitive scene, broadening the market’s appeal.

Development of Esports Infrastructure Purpose-built esports arenas and training facilities are being developed to support the growing industry.

View sample report for additional insights on the esports market size projections, download a free sample

[aviraltoor]

The Thrilling World of Multiplayer Gaming: Uniting Gamers Worldwide

Introduction Multiplayer gaming has transformed the landscape of the gaming industry, providing a unique experience where players from all over the world can connect, cooperate, and compete. Whether you’re teaming up for an online co-op or battling against rivals in a competitive match, multiplayer games offer excitement and interaction unlike anything else. In this article, we will explore the expansive world of multiplayer gaming, discuss popular titles, and highlight the rise of free multiplayer games, co-op games, and multiplayer game downloads.

The Appeal of Multiplayer Gaming Multiplayer gaming appeals to a wide variety of players by offering something single-player games cannot: interaction with other players. Whether you're competing in eSports tournaments or just playing casually with friends, multiplayer gaming brings people together. It can be as casual or as intense as you want it to be, creating endless replayability and diversity in gameplay.

The sense of community in multiplayer games is a powerful draw. Players can form teams, join clans, and build friendships with people from all corners of the globe. The rise of voice chats, in-game messaging systems, and online forums has only deepened the connection between players, creating thriving gaming communities.

Free Multiplayer Games: Access to Infinite Fun One of the best aspects of multiplayer gaming is that many of the most popular titles are available for free. Free multiplayer games like Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Call of Duty: Warzone have taken the gaming world by storm, allowing millions of players to join without paying an upfront cost. These games often rely on in-game purchases to generate revenue, but they give everyone the opportunity to enjoy multiplayer experiences.

Additionally, many free multiplayer games are supported across various platforms, making them accessible to players on both PC and consoles. This cross-platform compatibility has helped shape the free-to-play model into a massive trend in the gaming industry.

Exploring the World of Multiplayer PC Games PC gaming has long been the hub for multiplayer experiences. From intense first-person shooters to expansive MMORPGs (Massively Multiplayer Online Role-Playing Games), multiplayer PC games provide unmatched flexibility and performance. Titles like League of Legends, Counter-Strike: Global Offensive, and Minecraft have stood the test of time, offering competitive and cooperative modes for millions of players.

PC gamers also have access to exclusive multiplayer games, thanks to platforms like Steam and Epic Games. These platforms offer vast libraries of multiplayer games, making it easy for players to download and install their favorite titles. Whether you're a fan of strategy, adventure, or action, there are multiplayer PC games that cater to every taste.

Popular Multiplayer Games That Have Defined the Genre Certain multiplayer games have made such an impact that they’ve become legendary. Games like World of Warcraft, Overwatch, and Rocket League have revolutionized the genre, setting new standards for innovation and player engagement. These popular multiplayer games offer different experiences, from the strategic teamwork of MOBAs (Multiplayer Online Battle Arenas) like Dota 2 to the fast-paced excitement of battle royale games.

In these games

[techtired]

The Best Gaming Gear for 2024: Elevate Your Play to the Next Level

The gaming scene is changing as we enter 2024; new technologies stretching the boundaries of hardware and gameplay capability keep us from knowing what is feasible. Whether your level of gaming is casual or committed eSports, the correct equipment can significantly enhance your experience and maybe increase your performance. From sensitive keyboards and immersive headphones to high-end monitors, here is a peek at the best gaming equipment of 2024 and how it can propel your gameplay forward. Ultra-Responsive Gaming Monitors With excellent refresh rates, reduced response times, and even better colour fidelity, gaming monitors are performing unprecedentedly in 2024. Particularly in fast-paced games, when every millisecond matters, a good gaming display can make all the difference between success and failure. Top-tier monitors today have 240Hz to 360Hz refresh rates, which produce remarkably fluid images that give players an advantage in games like Counter-Strike 2 (CS2) or Call of Duty. In competitive gaming scenarios, gamers will discover that the higher refresh rate lessens motion blur and lowers input lag—both of which are crucial. Any significant gamer in 2024 must also have 4K monitors since they provide crystal-clear images without compromising speed and have become more readily available. Mechanical Keyboards: Precision at Your Fingertips For those who prioritise speed, precision, and durability, mechanical keyboards remain the best option. Gaming keyboards have grown even more specialized in 2024 thanks to programmable mechanical switches to accommodate unique playing styles. Whether your preferred switches are clicky, tactile, or linear, the newest keyboards have faster reaction rates and more actuation points. The anti-ghosting and N-key rollover is a tool many players value since it guarantees every keystroke is registered even in the heat of combat. This is especially crucial in games like CS2, where fast-paced action and precision movement are vital. In a high-stakes game, the responsiveness of your keyboard can make all the difference whether you're sprinting your character or calling out to your squad. Gaming Mice: Customization Meets Performance Gaming mice in 2024 are more advanced, with customizable DPI settings, ergonomic designs, and programmable buttons to suit different gaming genres. One of the most significant trends is the growing popularity of lightweight mice, which allow quicker movements and reduce hand fatigue during long gaming sessions. For FPS titles like Counter-Strike 2, having a gaming mouse with a high polling rate and precise tracking is crucial. Adjusting DPI on the fly allows players to adapt quickly to different in-game scenarios, from long-range sniping to close-quarter battles. Customizable side buttons also give players the flexibility to assign actions or macros, giving them a competitive edge. When executing callouts in CS2 to teammates during a tense round, having these features mapped to your mouse can streamline communication and gameplay. Headsets: Immersive Sound and Clear Communication Especially in multiplayer and competitive settings, audio is essential in gaming. Any gamer in 2024 should have a top-notch gaming helmet since it provides clear communication with colleagues and immersive soundscapes. With 7.1 surround sound, the newest headsets let you hear every detail—from directional gunfire to distant footsteps—enhancing your advantage in tactical shooters like CS2. Whether providing critical intelligence or planning a strategic push, noise-cancelling mics are now a regular feature, guaranteeing that your voice is broadcast clearly during team conversations. Headgear makers also give comfort importance; lightweight designs and memory foam padding let you wear their headsets comfortably for hours. Headsets now provide low-latency audio with long battery life, so you never have to worry about losing sound in a battle, given the growing focus on wireless technologies. High-Performance Gaming PCs and Laptops Gaming PCs and laptops will keep pushing the envelope of performance in 2024, with the newest CPUs and graphics cards able to handle even the most demanding titles at ultra-high settings. Real-time ray tracing and AI-driven improvements in the most recent NVIDIA and AMD GPUs provide amazing images without compromising frame rates. Manufacturers produce slimmer, more potent devices that challenge desktop PCs' performance for players who value laptop portability. Gaming laptops in 2024 are made for players who require outstanding performance on the road with features like longer battery life and better thermal cooling. A high-end gaming PC or laptop guarantees a flawless, lag-free experience whether your game is an extensive RPG or FPS duel. Gaming Chairs: Comfort Meets Functionality Longer gaming sessions start to affect performance in significant ways due to comfort. Gaming chairs are made with ergonomics in mind in 2024, with lumbar support, movable armrests, and reclining features to guarantee that gamers keep good posture and comfort throughout protracted play. In high-end gaming chairs, memory foam cushions and adjustable settings to suit every person's demands abound. Purchasing a comfy gaming chair can help you increase your endurance and concentration, guaranteeing your physical support over hours of gameplay. Conclusion 2024 seems to be a year of remarkable gaming experiences with the correct gaming equipment. Technological developments enable players to bring their performance to the next level more readily, from mechanical keyboards and ultra-responsive monitors to immersive headsets and powerful gaming PCs. Having the greatest gear gives you the tools you need to win and enjoy the games you love, whether you're shouting out tactics to your Counter-Strike 2 colleagues or delving into the newest open-world RPG. Read the full article

[diuwingame1]

Diu Wins Official A New Dawn in Competitive Gaming

The recent event known as "Diu Wins Official" has become a monumental Diuwin Official occasion in the world of competitive gaming. Hosted in the picturesque coastal town of Diu, India, this tournament not only showcased remarkable talent and strategy but also fostered a sense of community and pride among participants and spectators alike. As we delve into the highlights of this event, we celebrate its significance for the local gaming scene and the future of eSports in the region.

A Stunning Venue

Diu, renowned for its stunning beaches and rich cultural heritage, provided an idyllic backdrop for the tournament. The event took place at a well-equipped convention center that was transformed into a vibrant gaming arena. Organizers worked diligently to create an atmosphere that reflected both the excitement of gaming and the charm of Diu. From traditional local snacks to decorations inspired by the town's culture, every detail was meticulously planned to enhance the experience for players and fans alike.

As participants and spectators arrived, the energy was palpable. The buzz of anticipation filled the air, with gamers from various backgrounds coming together to compete and celebrate their shared passion.

A Diverse Array of Competitors

Diu Wins Official attracted a wide range of participants, from seasoned professionals to enthusiastic newcomers. Gamers traveled from across India, eager to showcase their skills in popular titles such as Valorant, FIFA, and Call of Duty. The tournament provided a platform for players to demonstrate their talents and connect with fellow gamers.

One standout team was "Diu Warriors," composed mainly of local players. Under the leadership of captain Priya “Prowler” Mehta, they showcased exceptional teamwork and strategy throughout the tournament. Their journey to the finals was marked by intense matches, where they displayed not only skill but also resilience and determination.

The Thrilling Competition

The tournament format was designed to engage both players and spectators. After a series of qualifying rounds, the top teams advanced to knockout stages, heightening the stakes and excitement. Each match was a display of tactical brilliance, requiring players to think critically and adapt quickly to their opponents' strategies.

As the finals approached, the atmosphere in the venue became electric. Spectators filled the stands, eagerly awaiting the climactic showdown between Diu Warriors and their formidable rivals, the "Eastern Titans." The match was nothing short of exhilarating, with both teams showcasing remarkable skill and strategy.

Diu Warriors leveraged their local knowledge and synergy, executing well-coordinated plays that kept the Eastern Titans on their toes. The crowd erupted with each point scored, creating an exhilarating environment that fueled the players’ determination. In a nail-biting finish, Diu Warriors secured victory, igniting celebrations among their supporters and showcasing the potential of local talent.

Community Engagement: More Than Just a Game

One of the most inspiring aspects of Diu Wins Official was its focus on community engagement. The event served as a platform for bringing together gamers, fans, and local residents, fostering connections that extended beyond the competition. Workshops and panel discussions featured experienced gamers sharing insights on gameplay, streaming, and the growing world of eSports.

These sessions offered valuable learning opportunities for aspiring gamers, many of whom were motivated to explore their passion for gaming further. Local schools participated actively, fielding student teams and encouraging discussions about the future of eSports, highlighting the importance of education and inclusivity in gaming.

The Impact: A Catalyst for Growth

The success of Diu Wins Official has set a precedent for future gaming events in the region. The excitement generated by the tournament has sparked conversations about the potential for Diu to become a significant player in the eSports landscape of India. Local businesses began to recognize the economic opportunities presented by the gaming industry, leading to discussions about sponsorships and collaborations.

As interest in gaming continues to rise, there is a growing appreciation for the role that eSports can play in promoting tourism and economic development in Diu. The event has opened doors for further initiatives aimed at nurturing local talent, establishing gaming academies, and organizing larger tournaments in the future.

Looking Ahead: The Future of Gaming in Diu

The enthusiasm generated by Diu Wins Official has laid a strong foundation for the future of gaming in the region. Plans are already underway for more tournaments, workshops, and community events that will further engage local players and promote a vibrant gaming culture. The potential for Diu to emerge as a hub for eSports is within reach, and the local community is eager to support its growth.

Local organizations are exploring opportunities to establish gaming centers, training programs, and collaborative events that will enhance the overall gaming experience. As more players and fans flock to Diu for competitive gaming, the region stands to benefit economically and culturally.

Conclusion: A Celebration of Community and Passion

Diu Wins Official has proven to be more than just a tournament; it was a celebration of community, skill, and the vibrant culture of gaming. The event brought together gamers, spectators, and locals in a way that highlighted the power of shared passions. As Diu continues to build its reputation as a gaming destination, the spirit of collaboration and competition witnessed during Diu Wins Official will undoubtedly inspire future generations of gamers.

With its breathtaking scenery, enthusiastic participants, and a commitment to fostering community, Diu is poised to become a beacon for gaming culture in India. The journey has just begun, and the future looks bright for both the gaming community and the town of Diu. As we reflect on the success of Diu Wins Official, it is clear that this event marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in the world of competitive gaming.

[oceangamingconsult]

The Future of Online Gaming: Key Trends and Opportunities

The online gaming industry is rapidly evolving, driven by technological advancements, changing consumer preferences, and the growth of competitive gaming. As the global gaming market continues to expand, it presents numerous opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs.

In this blog, we’ll explore key trends shaping the future of online gaming and the exciting opportunities they offer.

1. The Rise of Cloud Gaming

One of the most significant trends in online gaming is the rise of cloud gaming platforms. Cloud gaming eliminates the need for powerful hardware by allowing gamers to stream games directly from remote servers. Services like Google Stadia, Xbox Cloud Gaming, and NVIDIA GeForce Now are leading the way in this space. As internet speeds improve globally and 5G becomes more widespread, cloud gaming will continue to grow in popularity.

Opportunities: For game developers and gaming businesses, cloud gaming presents a new distribution model. Companies no longer need to rely on physical copies or downloads, offering games on-demand instead. Subscription-based gaming services can also become a key revenue stream, similar to platforms like Netflix and Spotify in the entertainment world.

2. The Integration of VR and AR

Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) are transforming the online gaming experience by making it more immersive. VR headsets like the Oculus Quest and PlayStation VR have gained popularity, providing players with a more engaging experience. Similarly, AR games like Pokémon GO have shown how blending the real world with the virtual can captivate audiences.

Opportunities: As VR and AR technologies improve, gaming companies have the chance to develop more immersive and interactive experiences. From VR-based multiplayer games to AR-enhanced mobile games, the possibilities are limitless. Game developers who embrace these technologies will be able to create unique, engaging content that sets them apart in the marketplace.

3. The Growth of eSports

Competitive gaming, or eSports, has seen explosive growth over the last decade, and the trend shows no sign of slowing down. Tournaments for popular games like League of Legends, Dota 2, and Fortnite draw millions of viewers worldwide, with professional players and teams earning substantial incomes from sponsorships and prize money.

Opportunities: The rise of eSports offers numerous opportunities for businesses. Brands can invest in sponsorships, host tournaments, or create eSports teams. Additionally, media companies can profit from broadcasting rights, and venues can host large-scale events. For entrepreneurs, offering services like eSports coaching, analytics, or gaming merchandise presents new revenue streams.

4. Blockchain and NFTs in Gaming

Blockchain technology and non-fungible tokens (NFTs) are poised to revolutionize the gaming industry by enabling decentralized game economies and digital asset ownership. Blockchain-based games like Axie Infinity and Decentraland have already gained traction, allowing players to earn cryptocurrency and trade in-game assets. NFTs, which represent unique digital assets, are also becoming popular in gaming, giving players the ability to truly own items such as skins, weapons, or characters.

Opportunities: Blockchain and NFT integration offer game developers the chance to create new forms of value for players. Players can earn rewards through play-to-earn models, and developers can create digital marketplaces where users buy, sell, or trade virtual items. This trend also opens the door for new business models, like decentralized gaming platforms and token-based economies.

5. Cross-Platform Play and Accessibility

Cross-platform gaming, where players on different devices can play together, is becoming more common, breaking down barriers between console, PC, and mobile gamers. Popular games like Fortnite and Call of Duty: Warzone support cross-play, allowing a wider audience to participate and engage with the game.

Opportunities: For game developers, cross-platform compatibility is a way to increase player bases and engagement. Businesses can capitalize on this trend by offering products or services that enhance the cross-platform experience, such as cross-platform payment solutions or in-game communication tools.

Conclusion

The future of online gaming is incredibly bright, with numerous trends reshaping the landscape. From cloud gaming and VR/AR integration to the rise of eSports and blockchain technology, these trends offer exciting opportunities for gaming businesses.

Entrepreneurs and companies that stay ahead of these trends can tap into a booming market and create innovative gaming experiences that resonate with a global audience. As gaming continues to evolve, the potential for growth and new business models in the industry will only increase.

[gamechoice]

How to Become a Professional MOBA and FPS Player: Tips & Guide

Introduction

The world of esports has seen tremendous growth over the last decade, with MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena) and FPS (First-Person Shooter) games leading the charge. Many gamers dream of becoming professional players, but the journey requires more than just passion. It takes skill, dedication, and a deep understanding of both the games and the competitive environment. So, how do you make it in this highly competitive arena? This guide will walk you through the steps needed to become a professional MOBA and FPS player.

Understanding the Basics of MOBA and FPS Games

Defining MOBA (Multiplayer Online Battle Arena)

MOBA games like League of Legends and Dota 2 pit teams of players against each other in a strategy-based battle. Players control individual heroes or champions with unique abilities, and the goal is usually to destroy the opposing team’s base while defending your own. Strategy, teamwork, and a deep understanding of the game’s mechanics are crucial.

Understanding FPS (First-Person Shooter)

FPS games, such as Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and Call of Duty, focus on fast-paced action where players engage in shootouts, often in team-based settings. FPS games require quick reflexes, precise aiming, and mastery of various weapons and maps to succeed.

Choosing Your Game

One of the first steps toward becoming a pro player is choosing which exciting game to specialize in. Here’s a quick breakdown of some popular games:

Popular MOBA Games

Dota 2: Known for its complex mechanics and steep learning curve.

League of Legends (LoL): A fast-paced MOBA with a massive player base and frequent updates.

Popular FPS Games

Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS): A tactical FPS that emphasizes strategy and teamwork.

Call of Duty (CoD): Known for its quick gameplay and various game modes, from battle royales to team-based deathmatches.

Choosing a game you enjoy and are passionate about will keep you motivated during the long hours of practice.

Developing Core Skills for MOBA Players

Map Awareness and Strategy

In MOBA games, understanding the map and where enemy players are is essential. Keeping an eye on the minimap can give you valuable information about enemy movements and help you make strategic decisions.

Understanding Roles and Team Composition

Each MOBA game typically has roles like carry, support, or jungler. Knowing how these roles interact and choosing the right composition for your team is key to winning matches.

Mastering In-Game Mechanics

Mechanics such as last-hitting minions, positioning during team fights, and timing abilities can make a huge difference in MOBA games. A good player knows when to engage, retreat, or bait the enemy team into making mistakes.

Building Core Skills for FPS Players

Aim Precision and Accuracy

For FPS players, aiming is one of the most important skills. You can improve your aim through daily practice, drills, or even aim training software designed to sharpen your shooting accuracy.

Reflexes and Reaction Time

FPS games often come down to milliseconds. Improving your reaction time can be the difference between out-shooting your opponent or being taken down first. Training your reflexes through regular gameplay and drills can significantly improve your chances in gunfights.

Map Control and Positioning

Knowing where to position yourself on the map and how to control key areas is vital in FPS games. Good positioning can allow you to catch enemies off-guard and secure objectives for your team.

Practice Makes Perfect

Importance of Consistent Practice

Becoming a professional player requires hundreds of hours of practice. Set aside time each day for both solo and team play to work on mechanics and coordination.

How to Set Up a Routine for Improvement

Create a practice routine that includes playing matches, watching replays, and reviewing your gameplay to identify areas where you can improve. Focus on one or two specific skills at a time to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Studying Game Meta and Updates

Adapting to Patches and Updates

Games constantly evolve with patches and updates. Staying up-to-date with the latest changes in-game balance and meta (the most effective tactics available) is critical to remaining competitive.

Watching Pro-Level Gameplay for Insights

Learn from the best by watching professional tournaments or streams. Pay attention to how pros play, their strategies, and their decision-making to understand what sets them apart.

Understanding the Importance of Teamwork

Effective Communication with Team Members

Whether you’re playing MOBA or FPS games, communication is key. Callouts, strategies, and quick decision-making need to be coordinated with your team to ensure success.

Synergy and Collaboration in a Competitive Team Environment

Being able to work together with your team harmoniously is essential. Practicing regularly with a consistent group will improve synergy and make it easier to coordinate strategies during matches.

Improving Mental Toughness and Focus

Dealing with Pressure in High-Stakes Matches

Competitive gaming can be mentally taxing. Learning to stay calm and composed under pressure is a valuable skill. Practice mindfulness techniques or breathing exercises to keep your nerves in check during crucial moments.

Building Concentration and Emotional Control

Being able to maintain focus for long periods of time without getting frustrated is an important trait for pro players. Learn to control your emotions and stay focused on improving, even when things don’t go your way.

Investing in Proper Gear

Gaming Equipment for MOBA Players

MOBA games require precision and comfort, so investing in a good mouse and keyboard with programmable buttons can improve your gameplay.

Gaming Equipment for FPS Players

For FPS players, having a high refresh rate monitor, a precise mouse, and a comfortable headset for sound cues is crucial for peak performance.

Improving Physical Health for Better Performance

Exercise and Posture for Gamers

Sitting for long periods can strain your body. Regular exercise, stretching, and maintaining proper posture will help you stay in top form, both mentally and physically.

Eye Health and Hand Coordination

Your eyes and hands are your most important tools in gaming. Take frequent breaks, use eye drops, and do hand stretches to avoid injury.

Participating in Online Tournaments

Building a Competitive Portfolio

Playing in online tournaments will help you gain experience, sharpen your skills, and build a name for yourself in the gaming community.

Networking in the Gaming Community

Connecting with other players, coaches, and teams can open doors to more competitive opportunities. Being part of the community is an excellent way to get noticed.

Streaming and Content Creation

Growing Your Audience with Live Streams

Streaming your gameplay on platforms like Twitch or YouTube can help you build a following and showcase your skills to a broader audience.

Utilizing Social Media and YouTube to Build Your Brand

Content creation, including highlight reels or tutorials, can help you stand out and gain recognition from the gaming community and potential sponsors.

Joining or Forming an Esports Team

The Path to Becoming a Pro Player

Many professional players start by joining amateur teams. Build your resume by winning smaller tournaments or leagues to get the attention of bigger teams.

How to Get Noticed by Teams or Sponsors

Consistently perform well, be active on social media, and develop your personal brand. Professional teams often scout players who show potential in lower-tier competitions.

Conclusion

Becoming a professional MOBA or FPS player is not just about playing games all day. It’s a journey that requires skill development, mental toughness, teamwork, and strategic planning. With dedication, the right mindset, and a solid plan, you can turn your passion into a successful esports career.