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BLAST appoint Tom Greene as Chief Growth Officer

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Greene joins from the Harry Potter franchise and will focus on increasing BLAST’s efforts to grow its audience and consumer base

Esports tournament organiser and media network BLAST has appointed Tom Greene as its Chief Growth Officer. He joins after six years working with the Harry Potter franchise across a number of commercial leadership roles.

During his time with Wizarding World, Greene ran Pottermore Publishing, the digital publisher of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts ebooks and audiobooks. He also led Wizarding World Digital, the fan-engagement arm of the Harry Potter franchise and a joint venture between Pottermore and WarnerMedia. Greene will remain a non-executive director of Pottermore.

Greene’s appointment will help improve and increase BLAST’s efforts to grow its consumer and audience base in the future by creating a more direct relationship with its esports fanbase.

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BLAST will be looking to utilise the former-WarnerMedia executive’s experience in building technology products that can capture the attention of key audiences – with the ultimate aim of diversifying BLAST’s product offering and revenue streams.

The last 18 months have been an exciting period for BLAST that has seen the Copenhagen-based business move into a number of new games, including: VALORANT, DOTA 2, Apex Legends and Fortnite.

During this period BLAST Premier, the company’s leading light and a global Counter-Strike tournament circuit, has grown from strength-to-strength and in January posted the most watched online CS:GO match of all time during the Global Final while also securing a range of new commercial partnerships with Coinbase, L33T Gaming and Unilever.

Robbie Douek, CEO for BLAST, said: “Tom joins us at a hugely exciting time for BLAST, the last year has seen us cement BLAST Premier as one of the leading Counter-Strike tournaments in the world, we’ve also managed to diversify our product offering by moving into a number of leading titles during this period.

“Tom brings a wealth of experience and knowledge from his time with the Harry Potter franchise, where he had huge success in evolving the Wizarding World digital publishing platforms and creating a powerful fan experience. His arrival signifies BLAST’s ambition to grow and strengthen the relationship we have with our community.”

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Tom Greene, Chief Growth Officer at BLAST, said: “I’m thrilled to join the team at such an exciting time for BLAST and for esports more generally. Everyone at BLAST is incredibly passionate and talented and it is great to join such a dynamic team. I’m looking forward to helping us accelerate our efforts and deliver more amazing products and experiences to our fans both old and new.”

BLAST Premier is a worldwide Counter-Strike tournament series that unites all major events, offers opportunities to all regions across the globe and crowns the world champions of CS:GO. Up to 32 teams will take part in the seven BLAST Premier events over the course of 2021 with a combined prize pool of $2,475,000 on the line. BLAST will be making its long awaited return to arena events with fans later this year at Copenhagen’s iconic Royal Arena for the Fall Final.

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Fourth Star

Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform

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Fourth Star, the cutting-edge virtual reality immersive media streaming platform, is officially available to the public. This innovative platform transforms traditional entertainment by enabling users to seamlessly watch standard 2D, 180 and 360 immersive media content and movies. Fourth Star redefines how audiences engage with immersive storytelling, offering an unparalleled first-person centric perspective on entertainment.

“Fourth Star is more than just a platform – it’s a revolution in entertainment,” said Greg Simon, Co-Founder & CEO of Fourth Star. “We’ve created an immersive experience where users can not only consume content but also actively participate in it. Our vision is to transform how people experience media content and movies in a way that has never been done before.”

A New Era of Interactive Entertainment

The largest immersive media streaming platform available on Sidequest, users can explore nearly forty unique environments, interact with AI-driven crew, and experience entertainment in an entirely new way. Fourth Star offers a groundbreaking approach to digital engagement, whether socializing in the Cafe, customizing avatars in private Apartments or Ships, or stepping directly into a movie’s storyline.

“The combination of VR, AI, and blockchain in Fourth Star sets a new standard for immersive entertainment,” said Craig Wiltshire, CTO of Fourth Star. “Our vision is to seamlessly integrate all three technologies into the user experience. We are redefining the entertainment experience from passive observation to active creation.”

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Built for Content Partners

Fourth Star is a self-serve platform designed for content partners of all sizes, from individual creators to blockbuster studios. Content partners can set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing their work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience. The Creator Portal empowers partners to distribute and profit from their immersive media with ease, making Fourth Star a truly open and accessible metaverse for digital entertainment.

Key Features of Fourth Star

  • VR Streaming Platform – Users can access nearly forty environments and own their own luxury apartments and ships all equipped with an immersive media streaming entertainment hub.
  • Social & Customization – Connect with others in dynamic social hubs, personalize your avatar, and invite your friends to your own luxury apartment and ship.
  • Player Portal – Users can access the web-based marketplace to explore content, invite friends,
  • Creator Portal – Set up an account, create content channels, and begin monetizing your work immediately. No integration is required, allowing for seamless onboarding and instant access to a global audience.
  • Blockchain Integration – The FSTR token, built on the Polygon blockchain, powers the ecosystem, providing secure transactions and exclusive rewards.
  • AI-Powered Companions – Coming soon

 

FSTR: The Utility Token Powering Fourth Star

FSTR serves as the primary ecosystem currency within the Fourth Star platform, enabling users to purchase Apartments, Ships, AI Companions, and exclusive content. Token holders benefit from:

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  • VIP Access – Exclusive events, early screenings, and red carpet experiences.
  • Discounts – 25% savings on in-app purchases (IAPs) and entertainment content.

A New Paradigm in Entertainment

Fourth Star is designed to deliver the future of entertainment through merging cinematic storytelling with interactive gaming, offering:

  • A seamless transition from passive to interactive experiences.
  • A thriving community for players, creators, and investors.
  • Advanced AI integration for interactive AI characters.
  • Don’t just watch the star in the movie, become the star.

Availability and Access

Fourth Star is now live and available for users worldwide on Sidequest. Whether you’re an explorer, content creator large to small, storyteller, or entertainment enthusiast, Fourth Star provides an immersive space to experience digital entertainment like never before.

The post Fourth Star Launches Immersive Media Streaming Platform appeared first on Gaming and Gambling Industry in the Americas.

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Flexion partners with King to launch Candy Crush Solitaire© simultaneously across platforms

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Significant industry first will see game launch from day one across 5 alternative stores in addition to Apple and Google.

Flexion, the games marketing company, announces a partnership with preeminent developer King to market new game Candy Crush Solitaire© in alternative app stores.

Expected to be one of the exciting game announcements of the year, Candy Crush Solitaire© will be available on the Amazon Appstore, Samsung Galaxy Store, Huawei App Gallery, Xiaomi GetApps and ONE store from the get-go thanks to Flexion’s expertise and technology. The game launches globally across platforms on 6 February and is already available for preregistration in all the stores.

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Flexion has had a partnership with King since June 2024 to market Candy Crush Saga© on the alternative stores. With this latest deal, both companies are breaking new ground with concurrent launches, taking them to the leading edge of games marketing.

“This is the first time King will launch simultaneously across such a wide range of platforms,” says Jens Lauritzson, Flexion’s CEO. “King has recognised that mobile audiences come from a more diverse range of markets these days, and we are thrilled to be able to help them reach those markets. Flexion has brought to the partnership the tech, experience and expertise to ensure the ultimate in user choice.”

Commenting on the deal, Benjamin Pommeraud, General Manager of Strategic Initiatives at King, says: “We’re excited to partner with Flexion to make Candy Crush Solitaire available to more players. As our first expansion of the Candy universe into a new genre, this collaboration reflects our ongoing commitment to delivering high-quality experiences that are accessible to everyone, no matter where they choose to play.”

The post Flexion partners with King to launch Candy Crush Solitaire© simultaneously across platforms appeared first on European Gaming Industry News.

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FreezeNova

10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)

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Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.

Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.

Recognizing Early Signs

“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:

Exhaustion and Irritability

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Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.

Gaming Obsession 

If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.

Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests

A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.

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Emotional Volatility

Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.

Physical Strain

Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.

Neglecting Basic Needs 

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If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.

Creating a Supportive Environment

While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.

Teamwork and Setting Boundaries

“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.

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Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.

Open Communication

Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.

Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”

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