Gaming has consistently been underestimated in terms of its global reach and potential, with avid gamers often seen as vagabonds or non-productive members of society. Luckily for gaming enthusiasts, ASUS has come up with an aspirational concept.
Launched under its Republic of Gamers (ROG) wing, ASUS has introduced India’s first virtual academy programme for gamers – ROG Academy. As part of this initiative, ASUS ROG will identify PC gamers through a screening process and provide them with a platform to sharpen and enhance their skills and prepare them for competitive esports tournaments on a national and a global level. This initiative is a testimony to India being an important market for ASUS’s consistent efforts to build a robust gaming ecosystem in India and empower gamers through several programmes and initiatives.
Today, while gaming has gained significant recognition since yesteryear, there is still a long list of problems plaguing aspiring gamers and esports enthusiasts. Among the most common issues are expensive components, lack of a coherent and cooperative team, and tournament-style gaming inexperience. ASUS is looking to eliminate all these problems with its ROG Academy sessions.
In an interview with Exhibit Magazine, Arnold Su, Business Head, Consumer and Gaming PC, System Business Group, ASUS India, said “Owing to the pandemic, we are witnessing a permanent shift in content consumption patterns globally and increased digital acceleration. With an increase in esports gamers during the pandemic, ASUS has strengthened its commitment to investing in the future of India’s gaming industry. It gives us immense pleasure to be the first brand in the laptop segment to introduce first-of-a-kind unique initiatives like ROG Academy, empowering gamers to conquer competitions and elevate the esports industry. We aim to encourage gamers to 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 esports players in India and pave the way for next-generation gamers with access to resources, mentorship and training”.
If your eyes are gleaming with hope and you can’t wait to find out what is in store for you, here is what ASUS is offering in its ROG Academy:
ASUS ROG Academy is a yearlong programme, divided into four sessions per quarter, aimed at strengthening India’s esports talent pool. The shortlisted team and players will go through an extensive selection process divided into different phases. This will culminate in six select players becoming part of a 3-month long session for the first quarter, including activities ranging from individual skill training and mentorship from the coach to teamwork, communication, and high-level concepts used in the highest level competition. The exercises, schedule and entire programme, will be specifically designed keeping in mind the title and the existing skillsets of the players who will be a part of it. The long term goal of the programme is to have more and more skilled esports players from India.
The first session of the quarter will involve “Counter-Strike: Global Offensive” as the official title as we seek to uncover India’s most talented players. Panellists will consist of a representative from ASUS ROG, partners, and CS: GO. ASUS ROG will be providing the entire team Ex-Gratia of INR100,000 price to all the final six players once they complete their 3-month training successfully. Players will also receive INR15,000/ as stipend and a bonus every month during the training. The six players will also continue to represent the brand for three months while participating in any tournaments or events posted, completing a three-month training programme successfully.
How to Apply: ROG Academy
- Aspiring Gamers aged 16 and above and willing to participate in the programme can register themselves through the given registration link. Gamers aged between 16 and 18 will need to provide a consent letter from their parents to participate in the programme.
- After registration, participants will have to go through a screening process, including showcasing their abilities in open tryouts where a jury will judge them.
- The top six participants chosen from the tryouts phase will receive admission into the programme. Participants will receive a stipend of INR15000/.
Update: The registration has closed since 10th February 2021.
