Gaming community platform KGeN (The Kratos Gamer Network) and American video game developer Riot Games have partnered to launch Lift//Off, an online training academy for Riot Games’ well known first person shooter game Valorant.
The program will select Valorant community’s gaming content creators as creators and seasoned competitive gamers as trainers, to lead this training academy. The academy will select 20 creators from a pool of applicants who will then form their own teams from within their communities. Each creator will either select five players for their team or play alongside four players, forming a total of 60 to 80 players. Additionally, 20 trainers will be selected, with each assigned to one of the 20 creator-led teams.
A gamer’s in-game performance, including stats like hours played, win rates, successful kills, headshot percentage, and KDR (Kill Death Ratio) combined with their social standing in the community, such as tournament wins, content creation skills, and positive feedback, will be the foundation for selecting the first group of trainers, creators, and esports recruits for the academy.
The academy will offer all participants an opportunity to connect with the global esports community. Top-performing teams will have the chance to showcase their skills in official Valorant tournaments. Additionally, creators and trainers will receive the game’s official merchandise, highlighting their involvement in shaping this program and contributing to the growth of the esports community in India. The program will include a mentor cohort which will engage a diverse audience.
The program’s teachings will encompass the broader aspects of life as an esports professional. By mentoring participants in every facet of the player’s social persona, KGeN plans to use data to build the reputation and “gamer cred” of everyone involved, ensuring they are well-rounded individuals ready for the spotlight. Data-driven insights will be used to tailor tutorials and challenges, helping each participant address specific areas where they need help.
The virtual training academy will accept registrations for creators, trainers and recruits from 18 September to 10 October. The academy will set up a weekly and daily challenges leaderboard which will allow players to participate in-game challenges and win rewards from the leaderboard. The final tournament which would assess the learning of the recruits will be held from 30 November to 3 December.
Founded in 2022, KGeN operates across India, Brazil, Nigeria and South East Asia.