Latest news with #eSports
The Verge
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- The Verge
Valorant is switching to Unreal Engine 5 and finally adding replays
Riot Games is planning to switch Valorant, its popular first-person tactical hero shooter, over to Unreal Engine 5 in July. The engine upgrade from Unreal Engine 4 is part of a number of new changes coming to the shooter over the coming months, including a replay system in September. Valorant has been running on Unreal Engine 4 since a beta of the game originally released in 2020, and Riot Games has been using Unreal 4 for more than 10 years to build the game. The upgrade to Unreal 5 will arrive with patch 11.02 at the end of July, and Riot is promising it shouldn't disrupt gameplay. The game's overall look and feel should be similar, and Riot says the engine upgrade will improve framerate performance and make patch downloads faster in the future. It'll be interesting to see what else this engine upgrade unlocks, particularly whether Riot will improve character models and animations in the future. Valorant players that log in while patch 11.02 is live will get a special gun buddy to commemorate the upgrade. The second big upgrade coming to Valorant later this year is the long-requested replay system. It will arrive on PC first with patch 11.06 in September, followed by a release on console later this year. The replay system will let you analyze recently played competitive games at launch, and Riot is looking at adding more modes later. The replay system should help players report cheating or bad player behavior in Valorant, and Riot is also adding multi-factor authentication to the game to help with smurfing in the competitive modes — where higher ranked players log into accounts to boost them. You'll also soon be able to report accounts that are abusing rank or matchmaking. Valorant 's upcoming 11.0 patch later this month will also add a new map to the game, and it will be available in the competitive mode on day one. During the initial patch cycle of two weeks, rank rating (RR) losses on this new map will be cut by 50 percent while Valorant players get used to playing this new map.
Yahoo
5 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Markets, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2030 - Explosive Growth in Mobile Gaming Sector, Smartphones Dominate with 60% Revenue Share
Key opportunities in the Saudi Arabia electronic games market include exploiting the surge in mobile gaming, driven by high smartphone and internet penetration. The growing popularity of eSports and online multiplayer games offers potential, especially in urban centers like Riyadh, supported by government initiatives under Vision 2030. Saudi Arabian Electronic Games Market Dublin, May 30, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The "Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Region, Competition, Forecast & Opportunities, 2020-2030F" has been added to offering. The Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market was valued at USD 4.59 Billion in 2024, and is expected to reach USD 11.06 Billion by 2030, rising at a CAGR of 15.80% The Saudi Arabia electronic games market has witnessed significant growth from 2020 to 2030, driven by increasing internet penetration, a young and tech-savvy population, and rising disposable incomes. The market is segmented by platform, player type, distribution channel, and region. Platforms include smartphones, tablets, laptops, console games, and portable gaming devices, with smartphones dominating due to their widespread accessibility and affordability. Console games are also gaining traction, supported by the popularity of high-quality gaming experiences. By player type, the market is divided into single-player and multi-player games, with multi-player games experiencing rapid growth due to the rise of online gaming communities and competitive eSports. Distribution channels are categorized into online and offline, with online platforms, including app stores and digital downloads, leading the market due to convenience and a wide variety of options. Offline channels, such as retail stores, remain relevant for physical game purchases and consoles. Regionally, urban centers like Riyadh and Jeddah are the primary hubs for gaming activity, driven by higher disposable incomes and better infrastructure. Key growth factors include government initiatives to promote the gaming industry, such as the Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to diversify the economy and foster innovation in the entertainment sector. Additionally, the increasing popularity of eSports and gaming tournaments is further propelling market growth. Key Market Drivers Saudi Arabia has been undergoing a massive digital transformation as part of its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the economy and reduce dependence on oil. This transformation has led to a surge in internet penetration and smartphone adoption across the country. With over 90% of the population having access to the internet and a high smartphone ownership rate, the demand for mobile gaming has skyrocketed. Smartphones and tablets have become the most accessible platforms for gaming, especially among the younger population. Internet penetration in Saudi Arabia is 98%, with smartphone penetration at 95%. Mobile gaming accounts for 60% of the total gaming revenue in the region. Additionally, the rollout of 5G technology has further enhanced the gaming experience by enabling faster download speeds and seamless online multiplayer gaming. This digital shift has created a fertile ground for the growth of the electronic games market, making it one of the most significant drivers. Key Market Challenges Saudi Arabia's conservative cultural and regulatory environment poses a challenge to the electronic games market. While the government has been actively working to diversify the economy and promote the entertainment sector, certain cultural sensitivities and regulatory restrictions still exist. For instance, games with content deemed inappropriate or inconsistent with local values may face bans or require significant modifications. This limits the variety of games available to consumers and could deter international game developers from entering the market. Additionally, the lack of a clear regulatory framework for online gaming and digital content distribution can create uncertainty for businesses, impacting investment and innovation in the sector. Key Market Trends Esports has emerged as a major trend in Saudi Arabia, transforming gaming from a casual hobby into a professional and competitive industry. The Saudi government has been actively promoting esports as part of its Vision 2030 initiative to diversify the economy and create new entertainment opportunities. The establishment of the Saudi Esports Federation and the hosting of international tournaments, such as Gamers8, have positioned the country as a regional hub for competitive gaming. Esports has also gained significant traction among the youth, with many aspiring to become professional gamers or content creators. This trend has led to increased investments in gaming infrastructure, including esports arenas, training facilities, and sponsorship deals, further boosting the market. Report Scope Key Market Players Sony Corporation Microsoft Corporation Apple Inc. Google LLC (Alphabet Inc.) Electronic Arts Inc. NetEase Inc. Ltd. Tencent Holdings Ltd. Ubisoft entertainment Square Enix Co. Ltd. Blizzard Entertainment Inc. Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Platform: Smartphones Tablets Laptops Console Games Portable Gaming Devices Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Player: Single player Multi-player Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Distribution Channel: Online Offline Saudi Arabia Electronic Games Market, By Region: Western Northern & Central Eastern Southern Key Attributes: Report Attribute Details No. of Pages 82 Forecast Period 2024 - 2030 Estimated Market Value (USD) in 2024 $4.59 Billion Forecasted Market Value (USD) by 2030 $11.06 Billion Compound Annual Growth Rate 15.8% Regions Covered Saudi Arabia For more information about this report visit About is the world's leading source for international market research reports and market data. We provide you with the latest data on international and regional markets, key industries, the top companies, new products and the latest trends. Attachment Saudi Arabian Electronic Games Market CONTACT: CONTACT: Laura Wood,Senior Press Manager press@ For E.S.T Office Hours Call 1-917-300-0470 For U.S./ CAN Toll Free Call 1-800-526-8630 For GMT Office Hours Call +353-1-416-8900Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Globe and Mail
5 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
Otherworld Casino Announces First-Ever Slots Battle to Air on Twitch May 30, 2025
Gen Z Is Gamifying Gambling-And It Looks More Like eSports Than a Casino Curaçao, The Country of Curaçao--(Newsfile Corp. - May 29, 2025) - Otherworld Casino announces the first ever online casino Slots Battle airing on Twitch on May 30. More than 100,000 viewers from around the world are expected to tune in. The inaugural Slots Battle features two popular streamers: @Rooney34, who has more than 89,000 followers and @Viiikingod, with more than 30,000 followers. Both will be streaming live May 30, 2025 at 9:30 PM EST / 10:30 PM ARG at An event like Otherworld Slots Battle represents a significant milestone in the evolving landscape of gaming culture. While previous generations primarily engaged by playing video games, today's younger audiences are equally captivated by watching others play. This trend has now permeated the realm of online casino gaming-and increasingly, in crypto-fueled casino gaming. Younger viewers are tuning in to watch streamers spin slots and place bets in real time, transforming online gambling into an interactive spectator experience. The 'Slots & Casino' category on streaming platform Kick has amassed more than 100 million hours watched, highlighting the growing interest in this content. Similarly, Twitch's gambling categories garner about 50 million hours per month. Viewers tend to be younger, with an average age of between 21 and 35 years, presenting an attractive demographic for marketers. What makes this trend particularly intriguing is that, unlike skill-based video games, casino games are purely games of chance. There's no strategy to master, yet the thrill of watching someone else win-or lose-has proven to be just as engaging. Slots Battle taps into this emerging form of entertainment, blending live-streamed competition with the instant gratification of casino play. It's a new frontier in gaming, where luck and spectacle converge, and audiences are eager to watch the action unfold. "For years, parents scratched their heads watching their kids spend hours watching YouTubers play video games instead of playing themselves. Now those same kids have grown up-and they're watching streamers spin virtual slot machines. Younger audiences are engaging with online casino content as interactive entertainment, not just gambling. Prepare to watch the casino influencer wars unfold," said Emma Garza, a spokesperson for Otherworld Casino. Otherworld Casino, the marquee sponsor of the event and host of the Slots Battle, is the world's first real estate casino, a licensed online casino featuring exclusive real estate games like Skyline Trader and Skyline Crash. For more details, media assets, or partnership opportunities, contact press@ or visit: About Otherworld Casino: Otherworld is the world's first real estate casino, inspired by a passion for property and the global success of virtual sports. It is a licensed online casino featuring exclusive real estate games like Skyline Trader and Skyline Crash, alongside top-tier slots, poker, live dealer, and classic casino games from providers like Pragmatic Play, Evolution, Hacksaw, and Nolimit City. Visit to start playing today. Not available in the U.S. Contact: press@ Website:
Yahoo
26-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
eSports Betting Sites: Thunderpick Named the Best eSports Bookie in the US
Thunderpick New York City, NY, May 26, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --The world of competitive gaming has exploded in popularity, and with it, eSports betting has become a top choice for US the many platforms vying for attention, Thunderpick stands out for its robust offerings and user-friendly interface. With a strong focus on eSports markets and competitive odds, it caters directly to fans of games like CS:GO, League of Legends, and Dota THE TOP-RANKED ESPORT BETTING SITE: THUNDERPICKWhether you're a casual viewer or a seasoned bettor, Thunderpick delivers an experience designed to match your level of by a secure platform and exciting promotions, it's quickly becoming a favorite across the US. Why Thunderpick Stands Out for US eSports Bettors Thunderpick is purpose-built for the modern eSports enthusiast, making it a top choice for players in the United States. The platform supports a wide variety of eSports titles, from globally dominant games like Counter-Strike and Dota 2 to emerging favorites such as Valorant and Overwatch 2. This diversity ensures bettors can always find the matchups they care of Thunderpick's core strengths lies in its intuitive betting interface, which makes it simple to place single bets, accumulators, and even live wagers with just a few clicks. Real-time match updates and dynamic odds make in-play betting especially engaging, adding a strategic layer to the excitement of watching your favorite teams players will appreciate the sleek, mobile-optimized design that works flawlessly on both iOS and Android devices. Whether you're at home or on the move, Thunderpick makes it easy to keep up with the action. The site's speed and responsiveness ensure you never miss a betting opportunity, even in fast-paced its technical features, Thunderpick also excels in offering promotions tailored to eSports fans. Its generous welcome bonus, reload offers, and seasonal competitions help players get more value from every wager. These rewards can be especially enticing during major tournaments like The International or the League of Legends World also maintains a strong commitment to responsible gaming, offering tools like deposit limits and self-exclusion for users who want more control over their betting habits. Combined with SSL encryption and a well-regarded reputation, this creates a trustworthy and secure 100% MATCH WELCOME BONUS UP TO $600 AT THUNDERPICK Getting Started at the Top eSports Betting Sites in the US Signing up with Thunderpick is fast, simple, and optimized for US users. The process starts by visiting the Thunderpick website or downloading the mobile app, available for both iOS and Android. From there, you'll be prompted to create an account using your email address and a secure Your Account: Visit the Thunderpick website and click the 'Sign Up' and enter your email, username, and password. Verify Your Email: Check your inbox for a verification link and confirm your identity. Deposit Funds: Head to the cashier section and choose from a range of US-friendly payment methods like credit cards, Skrill, or other eWallets. Claim Your Bonus: Make your first deposit to activate the 100% match welcome bonus up to $600. Place Your First Bet: Browse the eSports section, select your game and odds, and confirm your registration to first bet, the entire process takes just minutes. Thunderpick's user dashboard is clean and well-organized, helping new users feel right at home. It also offers betting guides and FAQs to support less experienced your account is active, you can explore a vast array of betting markets across different eSports titles. Best Games to Bet on at US eSports Sites eSports betting thrives on the popularity and competitive nature of the games themselves. In the US, bettors gravitate toward certain titles that consistently offer engaging action and well-established professional the top of the list is Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), known for its balanced gameplay and international tournaments like ESL and BLAST Premier. Thunderpick offers a rich menu of betting markets for CS:GO, including match winner, map handicap, and total of Legends (LoL) is another standout title. With major events like the LCS and the World Championship, it provides numerous betting opportunities and high viewer engagement. Thunderpick supports various markets, including first blood, total kills, and tower 2, backed by Valve and home to the massive prize pool of The International, is a mainstay in US eSports betting. Thunderpick offers comprehensive coverage, with options for outright winners, individual maps, and series a relatively new entry from Riot Games, has quickly built a competitive scene. Events like VCT Masters attract thousands of bettors, and Thunderpick covers them in detail with markets like spike defusals and headshot those who enjoy tactical gameplay, Rainbow Six Siege and StarCraft II provide unique mechanics and deep strategies. Thunderpick includes these games, ensuring niche fans are not left behind. Thunderpick Mobile eSports Betting Experience Mobile betting has become a critical feature for US users, and Thunderpick excels in delivering a smooth, reliable experience across devices. The mobile-optimized version of the site doesn't require a separate app, offering instant access through any browser on iOS or Android. This web-based approach ensures users can start betting without lengthy downloads or mobile interface mirrors the desktop site in both design and functionality, preserving intuitive navigation and lightning-fast performance. Thunderpick's responsive layout adjusts seamlessly to different screen sizes, so every feature, from game selection to account settings, is always within easy standout mobile feature is live betting. Real-time odds updates and in-play options remain fully accessible, even on smaller screens. This is ideal for users who want to place strategic bets while watching matches on Twitch or YouTube on the same device. Bonuses and Rewards at Top eSports Sites in the United States In the competitive eSports betting market, bonuses and ongoing promotions play a pivotal role in attracting and retaining US users. Thunderpick sets itself apart by offering a comprehensive suite of rewards tailored specifically to eSports sign-up, users are welcomed with a 100% match bonus up to $600. This generous welcome offer allows new bettors to double their initial deposit, providing a strong starting bankroll for exploring the site's wide range of eSports Thunderpick doesn't stop at the initial bonus. The platform regularly runs reload promotions, offering extra value for repeat deposits. These reloads often align with major eSports events, giving users extra motivation to stay is rewarded through Thunderpick's tiered VIP program. This system offers cashback, exclusive promotions, and early access to new features or events. US players who bet frequently on games like CS:GO or Dota 2 can unlock high-tier benefits faster than on most competitor also hosts seasonal tournaments and leaderboard contests, where users compete for cash prizes and bonus credits. These events encourage ongoing participation and create a community-driven betting atmosphere. Ready to Join the Best US eSports Betting Sites? Thunderpick has earned its reputation as one of the best eSports betting sites for US players, thanks to its focus on game variety, mobile performance, and player rewards. Whether you're betting on CS:GO or exploring new titles like Valorant, the platform delivers seamless access and top-tier mobile site makes on-the-go betting easy, while robust bonuses ensure players get real value from their activity. Security is baked into every feature, with advanced protections that keep user data and funds doesn't just serve eSports fans, it elevates the entire experience. From intuitive design to real-time odds and community engagement tools, it's clear why this brand leads the US you're ready to dive into the world of eSports betting, Thunderpick offers a secure, rewarding, and exciting platform to get NoteThis article is provided solely for informational and entertainment purposes. Nothing within should be interpreted as legal, financial, or professional advice. Readers should carry out their own research before participating in any gambling activities or signing up with any online casinos CautionOnline gambling comes with financial risks and may lead to addictive behavior or monetary loss. We urge all readers to gamble responsibly. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling, professional help is available. The National Council on Problem Gambling (NCPG) can be contacted at 1-800-522-4700 or visited online at only. It is up to each individual to verify whether online gambling is permitted under their local, state, or federal laws. Neither the publisher, the authors, nor any syndication partners condone or support unlawful gambling. Participation in online gambling is done at the reader's own discretion and risk. Affiliate Transparency This article may include affiliate links. If you click on a link and make a purchase or register, a commission may be earned, at no extra cost to you. Syndication and Liability Disclaimer Any third-party publishers, media platforms, or syndication partners that republish this content do so understanding that it is meant for informational purposes only. These entities are not responsible for the legality, accuracy, or interpretation of the material. Contact Data Thunderpick support@ #1517, Hamchako, Nzwani, Comoros COM1010Attachment Thunderpick CONTACT: Contact Data Thunderpick support@ #1517, Hamchako, Nzwani, Comoros COM1010
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
NIQ unveils Consumer Tech Industry Trends 2025 Report for UAE and KSA region
In the UAE, premium purchases are being boosted overall by higher-income expatriates returning from Russia and foreign tourists to the UAE buying portable tech to take home with them Saudi Arabia's growth in gaming PCs and accessories will continue, driven by the social adoption of e-sports in the country Saudia Arabia (KSA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are priority markets for premium smartphones, TVs, and laptops UAE/KSA: NielsenIQ (NIQ), a leading consumer intelligence company, released a Consumer Tech Industry Trends 2025 report, forecasting global Consumer Tech & Durables sales to reach $1.29 trillion - driven by emerging markets, replacement cycles, and premium innovation - in the year ahead. Emerging markets such as the Middle East are leading to global growth. Top 2025 Tech Trends: Strong economic sentiment in specific countries within the Middle East & Africa (MEA) in 2025 will continue to drive the region's overall demand for consumer technology. In 2025, brands selling into the Middle East & Africa must navigate fragmented consumer profiles and a crowded retail landscape. Success will depend on clear brand differentiation and tailored product ranges that balance price and functionality across diverse markets. Staying informed on global consumer trends is also essential, as MEA consumers rapidly close the gap in trend adoption. The 2025 forecast for regional sales of total Consumer Tech & Durables in MEA is USD 68B with 2% growth rate. The Revenue share of phones equipped with an AI processor, by region in MEA, is 32% of total sales In smartphones, foldables are a small segment, but volume demand is growing fast within Egypt and Saudi Arabia. 'Manufacturers and retailers should focus on creating solutions that address real-world challenges and elevate the consumer experience. This involves leveraging cutting-edge technologies to offer products that are not only high-quality but also user-friendly and impactful', says Andrey Dvoychenkov, NielsenIQ General Manager APP. 'By doing so, they can build stronger connections with consumers who are increasingly seeking products that align with their values and enhance their daily lives.' On another note, we know that the tech demand is increasing across generations, but it is much more vocal in Gen Z (source: Consumer Outlook report 2024). To understand the differences between Gen Z (age 18-27) and Gen X (age 44-59), let's review a few numbers: 48% of Gen Z regularly uses a wearable device that autonomously tracks and learns their behavior. This number is only 31% for Gen X. In another point, 46% of Gen Z leverages AI in their mobile devices to automate and speed up their everyday decisions whereas it is only 34% for Gen X. As we see significant adoption of new technologies for younger generation, the demand and early adoption of any new technology or trend will be driven by Gen Z. Why These Trends Matter for 2025 NIQ's Consumer Tech Industry Trends 2025 report equips businesses with a forward-looking roadmap to unlock category growth, target evolving personas, and drive revenue through data-backed innovation. Download the full report to explore consumer tech's most promising sectors and strategic imperatives. About NielsenIQ NielsenIQ (NIQ) is a leading consumer intelligence company, delivering the most complete understanding of consumer buying behavior and revealing new pathways to growth. NIQ combined with GfK in 2023, bringing together two industry leaders with unparalleled global reach. Our global reach spans over 90 countries covering approximately 85% of the world's population and more than $ 7.2 trillion in global consumer spend. With a holistic retail read and the most comprehensive consumer insights—delivered with advanced analytics through state-of-the-art platforms—NIQ delivers the Full View™. For more information, please visit
