ASUS Republic of Gamers (ROG) is all set to embark on its highly anticipated 8th season of ROG Academy Season 8. After the successful run of multiple seasons featuring VALORANT, ROG Academy is returning to its roots, focusing on the iconic game that originally launched this prestigious program – Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO). With the theme #backtobasics, ROG Academy aims to provide aspiring CS:GO enthusiasts in India with the golden opportunity to turn their passion for gaming into a flourishing professional career. The stage is set for passionate gamers aged 16 and above to showcase their skills, with registrations opening on Wednesday, 19th July, through the Official ROG Website.

Back to the Roots ROG Academy Season 8

ROG Academy has witnessed overwhelming success in previous seasons, attracting over 13,000 registrations and propelling 42 players to the professional level. Now, with a renewed focus on CS:GO, ROG is confident in India’s potential to embrace and popularize the game, evidenced by the growing interest and participation in the competitive scene, along with the rise of substantial prize pool tournaments hosted by various organizers.

The Quest for Talent ROG Academy Season 8

ROG Academy Season 8 comes with a mission – to unearth India’s most talented CS:GO players and nurture them into esports professionals. The curriculum for this season is designed in collaboration with AFK Gaming, one of India’s most renowned tournament organizers. The selection process is set to be extensive, involving multiple phases to identify the most suitable players for the program.

Phase 1: Application Test

Applicants will begin by filling out a comprehensive form, offering insights into their understanding of the game, preferred roles, and behavioral traits as players.

Phase 2: Theory Test

In this phase, participants will face challenging situations to test their situational awareness and decision-making skills, traits crucial in a game as strategic as CS:GO.

Phase 3: Range Test

Shooting skills will be put to the test in this round, with players taking on multiple challenges against range bots set to hard mode, aiming for high scores.

Phase 4: Scrims

Monitoring gameplay and communication will help determine the best fit for each role in the academy.

The Enriching Experience

As part of ROG Academy Season 8, the selected team and players will embark on a 6-month long journey that delves deep into the various aspects of CS:GO gameplay. The program is carefully designed to familiarize participants with the techniques of teamwork, communication, opponent analysis, weapon selection, and map breakdown, among other crucial skills. The ultimate aim is to master the art of competitive CS:GO, preparing players to shine on the global esports stage.

Rewards & Outcome

ROG Academy Season 8 participants will be rewarded handsomely for their dedication and hard work. With “CS:GO” as the official title for this season, panelists from ASUS ROG and experienced coaches will guide the players throughout their journey. As a stipend, players will receive monetary compensation of INR 15,000 per month during the training period. To enhance their gaming experience, participants will also be equipped with the latest ROG gears, including laptops, monitors, headphones, keyboards, and more.

Esteemed Guest Appearances ROG Academy Season 8

ROG Academy Season 8 is renowned for inviting esteemed guests to enrich the learning experience for the participants. The previous season welcomed Bhavin “HellRanger” Kotwani, former IGL of Global Esports, and Sabyasachi “Antidote” Bose, the current IGL of Orangutan and winners of VCLSA 2023. Their valuable insights and advice fueled the passion of aspiring gamers, inspiring them to reach new heights.

ROG Academy Season 8 promises an exciting journey back to basics, as aspiring CS:GO enthusiasts in India seize the opportunity to showcase their skills and transform their passion into a rewarding career. With ASUS ROG’s commitment to nurturing the gaming ecosystem in India, this season is set to elevate India’s position in the global esports arena. ROG Academy Season 8 beckons the next generation of talented gamers to rise and shine!