Step into a world where the virtual realm comes alive with a thrilling fusion of gaming, technology, and pop culture. 1stival 2.0, held on the 1st of July 2023, captivated the hearts of thousands of attendees, offering a day packed with gaming tournaments, exhilarating challenges, and a chance to experience the latest innovations in the gaming industry.
As Africa's leading publisher of mobile games and digital content, Carry1st brought together gamers, tech enthusiasts, and pop culture fans, creating an unforgettable event that aimed to meet every attendee right where they are.
Taking the magic already created with Tribe, Africa’s biggest gaming community, 1stival was an impressive lineup of activities, VIP appearances, and exclusive giveaways; a celebration like no other. Let's dive into the highlights of what was an extraordinary day in gaming culture.
Victory in the FIFA Tournament: Nwaoha Mitchel Ikenna Takes the Crown!
The FIFA competition at 1stival 2.0 proved to be an electrifying battle of skills and passion, with gamers from across the event showcasing their talents on the virtual soccer field.
Among the contenders, one player stood out and emerged as the undisputed champion. Nwaoha Mitchel Ikenna, better known by his gaming alias "Mitch," displayed exceptional prowess, claiming victory and etching his name into 1stival history.
As the winner of the FIFA competition, Mitch not only earned the admiration of fellow gamers but also walked away with an impressive prize package. With a cash prize of 150,000 Naira and a sleek 48-inch LG TV, Mitch's triumph was nothing short of monumental. His strategic moves, lightning-fast reflexes, and unwavering determination propelled him to the pinnacle of gaming glory, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who witnessed his remarkable skills.
Mitch's triumph in the FIFA tournament was a testament to the competitive spirit that thrived at 1stival 2.0, where gamers pushed their limits, showcased their talent, and earned recognition for their exceptional abilities. Congratulations to Nwaoha Mitchel Ikenna for his outstanding achievement and for raising the bar for gaming excellence at 1stival 2.0!
Raffle Draw: Excitement and Prizes Galore!
Among the highlights of 1stival 2.0 was the thrilling raffle draws that left attendees on the edge of their seats.
Two raffles, courtesy of Mobile Premier League (MPL) and LG, had participants eagerly anticipating their chances to win incredible prizes.
The MPL raffle drew the attention of gamers as they vied for the opportunity to take home their share of the 100,000 Naira prize pool, with two lucky winners each receiving 50,000 Naira.
Meanwhile, LG captivated the crowd by offering a chance to win a state-of-the-art TV and speakers, adding an extra layer of anticipation to the event. The raffle draws were a testament to the generous spirit of 1stival 2.0, where attendees not only immersed themselves in the gaming world but also had the opportunity to walk away with amazing prizes.
Intense Battles and Spectacular Showdowns
1stival 2.0 brought forth an unparalleled gaming experience with an assortment of adrenaline-pumping events. Among the highlights were the intense Free Fire lobbies, where participants engaged in fierce battles across five open lobbies, all vying for their share of the impressive 50,000 Naira prize pool.
The competitive spirit was further ignited with the highly anticipated CODM tournament, featuring a staggering prize pool of 150,000 Naira, captivating gamers and spectators alike.
But the excitement didn't stop there. Attendees were treated to a thrilling 3 vs. 3 exhibition match, where pro players showcased their exceptional skills in a jaw-dropping display of strategy and precision. The exhibition match was a true spectacle, leaving the audience awestruck and inspired by the mastery on display.
From the heart-racing battles in the free fire lobbies to the intense CODM tournament and the awe-inspiring exhibition match, 1stival 2.0 delivered unforgettable moments that showcased the talent, dedication, and passion within the gaming community.
Attendees immersed themselves in a world where competition met community, and where the pursuit of victory was celebrated with enthusiasm and respect.
Panel Sessions: Insights and Inspiration from Gaming Industry Experts
The panel sessions at 1stival 2.0 brought together a diverse group of gaming industry experts, each offering their unique perspectives and experiences. The discussions delved into various aspects of the gaming world, providing valuable insights and inspiration for aspiring professionals.
The session began with the panellists sharing their journey into the gaming industry. Cordel Robbin-Coker, CEO of Carry1st, and Kunmi Adenipebi, co-founder of Gamr, shed light on their extensive experience and the paths that led them to their respective roles. They discussed the practical steps one can take when starting a career in gaming, providing valuable advice for newcomers.
The question of staying motivated in an industry with limited resources and funding was tackled by Aladelo Oluwaseun (Senez) and Dooshima Anger. They shared their personal experiences and emphasised the importance of passion, resilience, and seeking support within the gaming community.
Kunmi Adenipebi, in his dual role as an esports expert, provided insights into the support system available for newbies looking to enter the gaming industry. He discussed the role of esports organisations and the significance of strategic partnerships.
Dooshima Anger, as a game developer, highlighted the opportunities and challenges in game development and emphasised the need for aspiring developers to seek guidance via mentorship and resources.
Cordel Robbin-Coker elaborated on Carry1st's contribution to building gaming careers in Africa, emphasising their commitment to fostering talent, creating opportunities, and providing a platform for aspiring professionals to thrive.
As the session drew to a close, the panellists collectively offered advice to anyone looking to build a career in games. Their words of wisdom echoed the importance of perseverance, continuous learning, networking, and embracing one's passion for gaming.
In an engaging interaction, the panellists also fielded a random question from the audience, providing diverse perspectives and insights on the query.
The panel sessions at 1stival 2.0 proved to be an invaluable opportunity for attendees to gain deeper insights into the gaming industry. From the personal stories of the panellists to their practical advice, the discussions offered a glimpse into the world of gaming and inspired aspiring professionals to pursue their dreams with determination and passion.
Tribe Campus Leaders: Empowering University Gaming Communities
Tribe Campus Leaders took the stage at 1stival 2.0, representing university students leading gaming communities under the Tribe umbrella. Their presence highlighted the importance of fostering gaming communities within educational institutions.
Gabriel, a final-year student, and professional CODM player, shared insights as the Tribe Campus Leader for Tribe_UNILAG, the program's largest community. Lord Jay, an early Tribe adopter, and Free Fire content creator, discussed his leadership of Tribe_UNILORIN. Israel, a Tribe moderator and Campus Leader at LAUTECH shed light on the challenges and responsibilities of maintaining an active gaming community on campus.
The trio showcased the transformative power of gaming in uniting students, fostering a sense of belonging, and enriching the academic experience. Tribe Campus Leaders demonstrated the impact of building inclusive gaming cultures within universities, connecting students with shared interests, and empowering the next generation of gaming enthusiasts.
Take a Break…..
We know you’re all in with the gist from 1stival 2.0, but we’ve got too much to tell you that it would be an overload for just one article.
Want to hear more about what went down at the biggest gaming festival of the year? Look out for Part 2!
While You’re Here…
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