The esports world witnesses a major shift as NODWIN Gaming acquires Sony Interactive Entertainment’s stake in Evo, becoming the majority stakeholder in the world’s largest fighting game festival. This strategic acquisition marks a new chapter for the Evolution Championship Series, positioning it for unprecedented international expansion through 2028 and beyond.
Table of Contents
Strategic Ownership Realignment
SIE has sold its stake in Evo to NODWIN Gaming, a company backed by SIE’s parent, Sony Group Corporation, creating a streamlined ownership structure while maintaining Sony’s involvement as a global sponsor through 2028.
| Partnership Details | Information |
|---|---|
| New Majority Owner | NODWIN Gaming |
| Co-Owner | RTS (existing stakeholder) |
| Global Sponsor | Sony Interactive Entertainment (through 2028) |
| Strategic Partner | Qiddiya (partnership extended to 2027) |
| Expansion Timeline | Through 2028 and beyond |
NODWIN’s Gaming Empire Expansion
NODWIN Gaming is a leading name in the South Asian gaming, esports, and youth entertainment industries, with established operations across emerging markets including South Asia, Singapore, Middle East, Germany, Central Asia, and Taiwan.
“Evo was built by a team whose authenticity and passion for the fighting game community are unmatched,” said Akshat Rathee, NODWIN Gaming Co-Founder and Managing Director. “We will honor the legacy while opening doors for a new generation to experience the spirit of Evo.”
Record-Breaking Global Momentum
Evo’s recent achievements demonstrate its massive global appeal:
- Las Vegas flagship event: Attracted competitors from 60+ countries across 16 fighting game titles
- Tokyo expansion: Became Japan’s largest in-person tournament with 30,000 attendees
- European debut: Nice, France event (October 10-12) already breaking registration records
- Singapore launch: Scheduled for 2027
The festival’s show floor now spans 14 acres, featuring major brand activations from Chipotle, AT&T, PlayStation, and other premium partners.
Sony’s Continued Commitment
“When SIE acquired Evo alongside RTS in 2021, our goal was to help the Evo community grow and spotlight the skills and passion of fighting game fans on a global stage,” said Phil Rosenberg, SVP at Sony Interactive Entertainment.
Sony transitions from owner to sponsor while maintaining commitment through PlayStation Tournaments platform and fighting game-focused product development.
Qiddiya Investment Strengthens Foundation
Qiddiya announced today that the company is investing in RTS, co-owner and operator of Evo, and will extend its global partnership with Evo through 2027. This Saudi Arabian entertainment giant’s involvement aligns with Vision 2030’s ambitious sports and entertainment goals.
Future of Fighting Game Culture
The ownership realignment supports Evo’s vision for enhanced original content and immersive live event experiences. “These latest partnerships join the ongoing support from our global and regional partners in accelerating Evo’s expansion from hosting renowned live events to serving as a nexus point for fighting game culture worldwide,” said Rick Thiher, General Manager of Evo.
This strategic shift positions Evo to capitalize on the growing global esports market, projected to reach $4.3 billion by 2028, while maintaining its grassroots fighting game community authenticity.
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FAQs
Will NODWIN Gaming’s ownership change Evo’s format or community focus?
No, NODWIN Gaming committed to honoring Evo’s legacy while expanding global reach and maintaining its grassroots fighting game community spirit.
How does Sony’s role change with this acquisition?
Sony transitions from co-owner to global sponsor through 2028, continuing support via PlayStation Tournaments and fighting game product development.
