Asus’s gaming sub-brand Republic of Gamers (ROG) is launching a virtual incubation programme for gamers called ROG Academy.
As part of this programme, Asus ROG will identify PC gamers through a screening process and provide them with a platform to sharpen and enhance their skills. It will also prepare them for competitive e-sport tournaments on a national and a global level in a bid to strengthen the e-sports talent pool in the country, the company said in a statement.
ROG Academy plans to conduct four batches of three-month-long sessions, with each batch having six players who will receive tournament-ready gaming equipment, professional mentorship and a monthly stipend of Rs 15,000. Asus is partnering with Mumbai-based esports media and content firm AFK Gaming for this initiative.
The curriculum will comprise training modules focused on individual and team-based gameplay across several areas like teamwork and communication, specifically designed to the game title and existing skillsets of the players, the company said. The first batch will focus on ‘Counter-Strike: Global Offensive’, a multiplayer first-person shooter title.
Once they complete the three-month training, each batch will receive a combined Rs 1,00,000 per team and have an opportunity to represent Asus ROG while participating in tournaments or events for three months.
Gaming enthusiasts who are of age 16 and above will be able to apply for the programme between February 1 and February 10, 2020, although gamers aged between 16 to 18 will need to provide a consent letter from their parents to participate in the programme.
“We aim to encourage more and more gamers, mentor them through their journey, and familiarise them with future opportunities in this landscape. This initiative will provide a huge boost in establishing a pool of credible E-sports players in India and pave the way for next-generation gamers with access to resources, mentorship and training,” said Arnold Su, Business Head, Consumer and Gaming PC, System Business Group, Asus India.
