The 2024 PUBG MOBILE Global Championship (PMGC) has become one of the most significant stages for global Esports competition, showcasing elite teams from every corner of the globe. This year, South Asia has been in the spotlight, with teams such as Horaa Esports and DRS Gaming from Nepal and AS i8 from Pakistan representing the region’s growing prominence in the global Esports scene. While these teams fell short of securing championship titles, their performances underscored the region’s immense potential and the steps needed for future dominance.
In this article, we’ll break down the performances of South Asian teams in this year’s PMGC, analyzing their strategies, results, and the implications for the region’s Esports future.
AS i8: Pakistan’s High Hopes and Challenges
Pakistan’s AS i8 entered the 2024 PMGC as one of South Asia’s strongest Esports teams, buoyed by an impressive run during the League Stage. Known for their balanced gameplay, which combined aggressive eliminations with high placement finishes, AS i8 showcased their tactical expertise.
In the League Stage, AS i8 managed to strike a perfect balance between offensive and defensive gameplay. Their calculated rotations and excellent teamwork led to several high-kill matches, boosting their confidence going into the Survival Stage. However, this stage of the tournament proved to be a different ball game altogether. Competing against global heavyweights, AS i8 struggled to maintain their form and adapt to the fast-paced and unpredictable dynamics of international competition.
During the Survival Stage, they accumulated just 7 placement points and 23 kill points, which ultimately led to their elimination. Their inability to secure consistent placements in high-stakes matches highlighted a gap in experience and adaptability. AS i8’s early exit was a sobering moment for South Asian Esports fans, as the team’s League Stage dominance suggested a deeper run was possible.
Horaa Esports: Nepal’s Determined Contenders
Nepal’s Horaa Esports took on the challenge of Group Yellow in the PMGC League Stage. Facing stiff competition from world-renowned teams like Alpha7 Esports and Vampire Esports, Horaa Esports displayed remarkable resilience and determination. Their standout performance on Day 2, which included a crucial match victory, showcased their potential to compete at the highest level.
Throughout the League Stage, Horaa Esports consistently secured top-three finishes, demonstrating their ability to hold their own against some of the best teams in the world. However, the team ultimately fell short, finishing 12th with 94 points—just outside the qualification zone for the Survival Stage.
Horaa’s journey highlighted the unforgiving nature of global Esports tournaments, where even small mistakes can prove costly. Despite their elimination, their performance was a testament to the skill and dedication of South Asian players, offering hope for future success with improved preparation and resources.
DRS Gaming: Nepal’s Last Hope
Following Horaa Esports’ exit, DRS Gaming took up the mantle for Nepal in Group Green. As the sole representatives of Nepal remaining in the tournament, DRS Gaming carried the weight of their nation’s expectations.
DRS Gaming started strong, securing two match wins and holding their ground against formidable opponents like 4Merical Vibes and Stalwart Esports. Their strategic approach and coordination in team fights earned them respect from fans and competitors alike. However, like Horaa Esports, DRS Gaming found the competition’s intensity challenging to sustain. They finished in 13th place with 104 points, narrowly missing a spot in the Survival Stage.
While their journey ended sooner than hoped, DRS Gaming’s performance highlighted the potential of South Asian teams to compete at a global level. Their ability to secure match wins against top-tier opponents underscored the region’s untapped talent and promise.
The Growth of South Asian Esports
The performances of AS i8, Horaa Esports, and DRS Gaming at the 2024 PMGC reflect the ongoing growth of Esports in South Asia. In a region where gaming was once dismissed as a hobby, the rise of competitive teams is a testament to shifting cultural and economic dynamics. South Asia’s Esports scene is still in its infancy compared to regions like East Asia, Europe, and North America, but the progress is undeniable.
Several factors contribute to the region’s growing presence on the global Esports stage:
- Increased Internet Penetration: Affordable smartphones and improved internet access have brought gaming to millions of users in South Asia, fostering a new generation of competitive players.
- Emergence of Regional Tournaments: Local and regional competitions have provided South Asian teams with platforms to hone their skills and gain exposure.
- Growing Investments: Sponsorships and partnerships from global brands are helping teams access better training facilities, coaching, and resources.
- Youth Demographic: With a large population of young gamers, South Asia has the human capital needed to develop a thriving Esports ecosystem.
Key Lessons for South Asian Teams
While the 2024 PMGC did not produce a South Asian champion, there are valuable lessons to be learned from this year’s performances:
- Adaptability: Competing against global teams requires quick adaptation to different playstyles and strategies. South Asian teams need to focus on developing flexibility in their gameplay.
- Preparation: Rigorous training, including scrims against international teams, can help players understand the nuances of global competition.
- Mental Resilience: High-pressure situations are a hallmark of Esports tournaments. Developing mental toughness is crucial for maintaining performance under stress.
- Infrastructure: Better facilities, including gaming houses and professional coaching, are essential for nurturing talent and ensuring consistent performance.
South Asia’s Path Forward
Looking ahead, South Asia has immense potential to become a powerhouse in global Esports. To achieve this, the region must address several key areas:
- Investment in Grassroots Development: Encouraging youth participation through grassroots tournaments can help identify and nurture talent early.
- Support from Governments and Organizations: Recognizing Esports as a legitimate industry and providing financial and logistical support can accelerate growth.
- Collaborations with Established Regions: Partnering with teams and organizations from more developed Esports regions can provide valuable insights and opportunities for South Asian teams.
- Promotion of Gaming Culture: Changing societal perceptions of gaming from a pastime to a viable career path is essential for long-term growth.
The 2024 PMGC: A Catalyst for South Asia’s Esports Evolution
The 2024 PMGC served as both a challenge and an opportunity for South Asian teams. While the results may not have matched expectations, the tournament was a powerful reminder of the region’s potential. Participating on the world stage is itself an achievement, and every match played adds to the experience and confidence of South Asian players.
Teams like AS i8, Horaa Esports, and DRS Gaming have laid the foundation for future success. With continued support, better resources, and more exposure to international competition, South Asia’s Esports scene is poised to rise to new heights in the coming years.
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Conclusion
South Asia’s performances in the 2024 PMGC may not have culminated in championship glory, but they highlighted the region’s growing influence in the world of Esports. Teams like AS i8, Horaa Esports, and DRS Gaming showcased their talent and resilience, providing hope for a brighter future.
The challenges faced in this year’s tournament serve as valuable lessons for South Asian teams, emphasizing the importance of adaptability, preparation, and support. With the right investments and infrastructure, South Asia has the potential to emerge as a dominant force in global Esports, inspiring millions of gamers across the region.
The 2024 PMGC was not just a competition—it was a stepping stone for South Asia’s Esports journey, marking the beginning of what promises to be an exciting era of gaming excellence.
