Good morning. It’s Monday, December 2. Google is once again under the scrutiny of India’s Competition Commission. In today’s Pixel P&L, we delve into the reasons behind the latest investigation into the tech giant’s practices. Also making headlines: NODWIN Gaming’s blockbuster acquisition of Trinity Gaming, a move that could reshape India’s influencer ecosystem.
We bring you details from NIP Group’s latest financial results, Nintendo’s intensifying crackdown on Switch modders, the upcoming Delhi Comic Con 2024, and more.
India’s Competition Commission (CCI) has launched an investigation into Google’s Play Store policies after real-money gaming platform WinZO accused the tech giant of discriminatory practices, . WinZO filed its complaint in 2022, claiming Google’s policy unfairly allowed only fantasy sports and rummy apps in the real-money gaming category while excluding platforms like WinZO that offer a broader range of games such as carrom, puzzles, and racing.
In its order, the CCI alleged that Google’s selective approval process creates a “two-tier market,” granting preferential access and visibility to specific app categories while placing other developers at a competitive disadvantage. This probe adds to the regulatory challenges faced by Google in India, .
The investigation is expected to conclude within 60 days, after which the CCI may determine further action. Google has denied any wrongdoing, maintaining that its policies ensure user safety and compliance with local regulations.
India-based esports firm NODWIN Gaming announced on Friday its acquisition of gaming agency Trinity Gaming for up to ₹240 million ($2.83 million). The deal will be executed through a mix of cash and equity, with ₹48 million ($567,400) paid in cash and ₹192 million ($2.3 million) in equity shares. Trinity’s founders, Abhishek Aggarwal and Shivam Rao, will become NODWIN shareholders and continue leading the business.
Akshat Rathee, co-founder of NODWIN, praised Trinity’s expertise in India’s gaming creator ecosystem, emphasizing its value in brand partnerships and community engagement. The acquisition aligns with NODWIN’s strategy to expand into emerging markets like Southeast Asia and the Middle East, bolstering its ability to deliver integrated solutions in content creation and marketing.
Trinity Gaming, founded in 2019, represents over 1,000 creators and partners with brands like Samsung and Krafton. This deal follows NODWIN’s 2024 acquisitions of Comic Con India, Freaks 4U Gaming, and others, signaling its focus on international growth.
NODWIN is a subsidiary of Nazara Technologies.
Most Top-Grossing Google Play Games Fail Loot Box Disclosure, BBC Finds
Only two of the 45 top-grossing games on Google Play comply with advertising rules for disclosing loot boxes, . Monopoly Go, with $3 billion in lifetime revenue, was among offenders. Critics, including researchers and advocacy groups, warn this non-compliance normalizes gambling-like behavior in games targeting children.
Delhi Comic Con Set to Return to Delhi on December 6-8 at NSIC Grounds
The event will feature cosplay showcases, esports tournaments, and live performances, alongside shopping from publishers like Indusverse and Yali Dream Creations. Brand partnerships include Yamaha India, Lenovo Legion, Intel, and Android.
NIP Group Reports Reduced Losses, Steady Revenue Growth in H1 2024
Esports holding company NIP Group $39.3 million in net revenue for the first half of 2024, slightly up from $38.6 million in H1 2023. Net losses narrowed to $4.7 million from $11.3 million last year, primarily due to a 56.6% reduction in general and administrative expenses, including share-based compensation. Event production revenue grew to $8.8 million, reflecting the company’s increased focus on the segment. Talent management and esports team operations contributed $21.9 million and $8.8 million, respectively. The company reallocated costs to align with revenue sources, cutting investments in team operations while bolstering event production spending.
Nintendo Subpoenas Google, Reddit, Discord and More in Piracy Crackdown
Nintendo has requested a US District Court to subpoena these firms in order to identify Switch modders and others it accuses of facilitating piracy. This development comes after the company’s recent lawsuit victory over Switch modder James “Archbox” Williams over various alleged piracy charges. “The purpose of all of the requested subpoenas is to seek relevant information that is necessary for [Nintendo of America] to pursue infringement claims,” the company said, .
No Man’s Sky, the ambitious space exploration game by Hello Games, has achieved an Overwhelmingly Positive rating on Steam earlier this week, a monumental turnaround from its Overwhelmingly Negative debut in August 2016. The game’s disastrous launch, plagued by missing features and unfulfilled promises, left players disillusioned. However, years of consistent updates, including multiplayer, base-building, and VR support, have transformed it into one of gaming’s greatest redemption stories.
