NODWIN Gaming Acquires StarLadder For $5.5 Million

NODWIN Gaming has acquired esports tournament organizer StarLadder for a reported $5.5 million. The founder of StarLadder, Roman Romantsov, announced the deal. 

This comes after NODWIN Gaming acquired AFK Gaming, a digital esports media firm, last month. 

Background on the Deal

Prior to the deal, StarLadder announced the return of StarSeries, which was centered around Counter-Stirke. However, on Jan. 25, they announced the Spring season had been canceled. 

Thus, the event will be in September instead. 

StarLadder also has a history of hosting Dota 2 competitions. 

According to NODWIN, the acquisition will seek to create new opportunities for StarLadder’s partners and make it more notable worldwide. 

“We are thrilled to have found partners and like-minded individuals who share our vision and ambition. Together with NODWIN Gaming, StarLadder is committed to creating extraordinary experiences for fans, delivering unforgettable events across multiple games and regions. Stay tuned for what’s to come!”

Akshat Rathee, the co-founder of NODWIN Gaming also commented on the deal.

“This deal takes NODWIN to the next level. With StarLadder’s expertise, we envision bigger and better IPs and events for our fans and partners,” said Rathee. “Roman and his team have created some of the most legendary esports tournaments. Their deep knowledge of stage design, creative broadcast solutions, and production innovation is invaluable. Together, we aim to bring more CS:GO tournaments and immersive esports experiences to a wider audience.”

Other NODWIN Acquisitions

As mentioned, NODWIN acquired AFK Gaming last month. 

However, they’ve also acquired other esports companies like Freaks 4U Gaming, a marketing agency, and Trinity Gaming, a gaming agency. 

Other acquisitions include Ninja Global and Publishme.

NODWIN also extended its partnership with The Game Awards.

Additionally, NODWIN received an investment of about £5.9 million from its parent company, Nazara Technologies Limited. 

With the acquisition of StarLadder, this marks a “signficant step” in their ambition to “enhance AAA content and event offerings on a global level.”

Details of NODWIN and AFK Gaming Deal

On Dec. 19, 2024, NODWIN announced it acquired 92.3% of AFK Gaming. The deal was valued at more than $888,000, with about $533,555 paid in cash.

NODWIN held a 7% stake prior to the deal.