NODWIN Gaming, a leading force in gaming, esports, and youth entertainment, and a key subsidiary of Nazara Technologies Limited (BSE: NAZARA), has announced the acquisition of StarLadder, a globally recognized esports IP and services company. The deal, initially valued at $5.5 million (INR 46.75 crores), marks a strategic move to bolster NODWIN’s capabilities in executing top-tier esports events and expanding its portfolio of iconic tournament IPs.
Under this acquisition, StarLadder will become a wholly owned subsidiary of NODWIN Gaming Pte (Singapore) while retaining its brand identity. The transaction involves a mix of secondary share sales and stock swaps, with an initial payment of up to $2 million (INR 17 crores) in cash and the remaining $3.5 million (INR 29.75 crores) via equity shares of NODWIN Gaming Pte. StarLadder’s founder, Roman Romanstov, will continue leading the company while becoming a shareholder in NODWIN Gaming.
Founded by Roman Romanstov, StarLadder has been a pioneer in esports event production for over two decades. The company has organized Counter-Strike and Dota 2 Majors and Minors, along with 18 seasons of StarSeries for CS and 17 seasons for Dota 2. StarLadder has also played a key role in executing white-label events for some of the industry’s biggest game developers, including Valve, Tencent, Riot Games, Krafton, Blizzard, Supercell, Com2us, Moonton, and Smilegate.
Akshat Rathee, Co-Founder of NODWIN Gaming, expressed his excitement about the acquisition:
“StarLadder and Roman have set the gold standard for premium esports events that fans love. Roman’s expertise in stage design, creative broadcasting, and event production makes him one of the best in the industry. I have admired his work for years, and it’s an honor to now collaborate and take NODWIN to new heights with him. This acquisition strengthens our ability to create even bigger and better IPs for fans and partners worldwide.”
Roman Romanstov, Founder of StarLadder, highlighted the potential of this partnership:
“We live in a time where global synergy drives success. Joining forces with NODWIN Gaming allows us to expand our reach and bring even more extraordinary experiences to fans across different regions and games. We are thrilled to embark on this journey together—stay tuned for what’s next!”
The acquisition aligns with NODWIN Gaming’s long-term vision of delivering high-quality esports experiences across emerging markets. By integrating StarLadder’s event production expertise, NODWIN expands its capabilities in organizing AAA-level tournaments, reinforcing its reputation as a leading player in global esports.
This move follows a series of strategic acquisitions by NODWIN Gaming, including:
Comic Con India
Trinity Gaming (Influencer & MCN business)
AFK Gaming’s agency business
Freaks 4U Gaming (German esports and gaming marketing agency)
Ninja Global (West Asia & Turkey-focused agency)
Branded (Singapore-based live events company)
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