Esports has been on the rise globally, and India is no exception to this phenomenon. The Skyesports Masters tournament, featuring the popular game Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), recently concluded with a thrilling Grand Finale. Gods Reign emerged as the champions of this high-stakes competition, showcasing their prowess in the world of competitive gaming.
Gods Reign Crowned Champions of Skyesports Masters: India’s Biggest CS:GO Tournament
The Grand Finale:
On August 28, 2023, history was made at the Koramangala Indoor Stadium in Bangalore. Skyesports Masters, India’s most significant Esports event with a staggering INR 2 Crore Prize Pool, reached its climax as Gods Reign claimed victory. Competing against Revenant Esports, Gods Reign proved their mettle over a thrilling two-day showdown, cementing their place as the inaugural champions of India’s first-ever franchised Esports tournament.
A Landmark Event:
The Skyesports Masters Grand Finale marked a significant milestone in the world of Indian Esports. This post-pandemic event drew in more than 7,100 attendees who gathered to witness the live on-ground competition. With the energy of the crowd palpable, the stadium reverberated with cheers and excitement as fans rooted for their favorite CS:GO teams.
Electrifying Showdown:
The Grand Finale pitted two formidable teams, Revenant Esports and Gods Reign, against each other. The clash between these CS:GO titans set the stage for an electrifying affair. The star-studded Gods Reign team, led by Hrishikesh “Crazy_Gamer” Shenoy and featuring Anshul “KiiLSwitCh” Adarkar, Piyush “Clouda” Kalwania, Akash “Ph1NN” Bose, and Parijaat “Rev3nn” Banerjee, showcased their skills and teamwork, ultimately closing the series 2-0 against Revenant Esports.
Triumphant Words:
Hrishikesh “Crazy_Gamer” Shenoy, Team Captain of Gods Reign CS:GO, expressed his elation after the victory. He noted that the team’s dedication and countless hours of practice had paid off. Winning the inaugural season of Skyesports Masters was a testament to their hard work and commitment. Shenoy dedicated the victory to the fans who supported them both at the venue and through online streams.
Thrilling Matchup:
The Grand Finale kicked off with intense exchanges between the teams, building suspense and anticipation. While both teams battled fiercely, Gods Reign managed to secure a late-game round win, securing their victory in the first map. The second map continued the narrative, with Gods Reign maintaining their dominance and preventing Revenant Esports from mounting a comeback.
Government Support:
The presence of N.A. Haris, Member of the Karnataka Legislative Assembly and Vice-President of the All India Football Federation (AIFF), underscored the growing recognition of Esports in India. Haris felicitated the players of Gods Reign and expressed the government’s support for the burgeoning Esports industry.
The Road to Victory:
Skyesports Masters wasn’t just a tournament; it was a journey that spanned from July 8 to August 17. The League Stage witnessed eight franchised teams competing for the coveted spots in the Grand Finale. With over 50 matches played, the tournament showcased the intensity and competitiveness of CS:GO Esports in India.
A Growing Industry:
The growth of Esports in India is undeniable. The “Windows of Opportunity” report by FICCI-EY highlighted that the number of brands investing in Esports grew from 72 in 2021 to 80 in 2022, with an estimated increase to 100 in 2023.
Industry Giants at Play:
Skyesports Masters’ significance was further amplified by its sponsors, which included industry giants such as AMD, Windows 11, Flipkart, and Zebronics. Loco, the broadcasting partner, facilitated the livestream and brought the event to a global audience.
A Fusion of Entertainment:
Beyond the competitive matches, fans were treated to brand booths featuring Zebronics, AMD, Windows 11, and Flipkart. The event transcended gaming and delved into music, as rap sensation Karma collaborated with content creator Mortal for a special music performance.
The triumph of Gods Reign in the Skyesports Masters is a testament to the dedication, skill, and passion that drive India’s growing Esports community. As CS:GO continues to captivate players and fans alike, events like Skyesports Masters play a pivotal role in elevating the profile of Esports in the country.
