Crunchyroll Expands in India with Localized Anime Content and Merchandise Plans
Crunchyroll is expanding its presence in India, with plans to develop anime featuring Indian characters and themes, according to President Rahul Purini. , Purini revealed that the company is collaborating with Japanese creators to produce content specifically tailored for the Indian market. Crunchyroll aims to release between 25 to 40 new series in India each quarter. Additionally, the anime streamer plans to introduce branded merchandise, capitalizing on the growing demand for anime in the region. “You will see some of our IP merchandise here very soon,” Purini said, emphasizing the rising interest in anime among Indian audiences.
‘Real Cricket’ Partners with Lucknow Super Giants for Exclusive In-Game Collaboration
JetSynthesys’ Nautilus Mobile, known for its popular Real Cricket series, has announced a new collaboration with the Indian Premier League’s Lucknow Super Giants. Starting August 25th, Real Cricket™ players can enjoy an exclusive update featuring Lucknow Super Giants cricketers, including KL Rahul, Nicholas Pooran, Quinton de Kock, and Kyle Mayers. The collaboration brings official team logos, kits, and player likenesses into the game, enhancing the realism and excitement for cricket fans.
Microsoft Unveils New Xbox Game Pass Standard Plan, Dropping Day-One Access for First-Party Titles
Microsoft has for its upcoming Xbox Game Pass Standard plan, set to launch on September 12 at $15 per month. The plan’s most significant change is the removal of day-one access to first-party titles, which may join the Standard tier up to a year later—or potentially not at all, depending on the game. Positioned between Game Pass Core ($10) and Game Pass Ultimate ($20), the new tier aims to provide “more choice” for players.
Riot Games Unveils Major Changes for 2025 VALORANT Champions Tour, Including Global Event Locations
Riot Games has announced significant updates for the 2025 VALORANT Champions Tour (VCT), including a shorter off-season, revamped Season Kickoff event, and new formats for Challengers. The VCT Masters events will take place in Bangkok and Toronto, with VALORANT Champions concluding in Paris. In a YouTube video, Leo Faria, Global Head of VALORANT Esports, and Anna Donlon, VALORANT Studio Lead, detailed these changes. Riot also confirmed that VCT partner teams will be allowed Academy teams in Challengers, though these teams will be ineligible for promotion. Additionally, the 2026 Champions will be hosted in China, and 2027 in the Americas.
