First FAU-G: Domination esports tournament in India could just be the beginning

The first-ever Indian esports title just wrapped up its first LAN, showing a lot of potential in Southeast Asia. 

FAU-G: Domination is a military shooter for mobile published by Nazara Publishing and developed by Dot9 Games. The tournament, FAU-G: Bharat League 2.0 Finals (FBL 2.0), was a showcase of not just India's talent in mobile gaming but the country's passion and support for its esports scene. 

Said nCore Games President Kaval Bombra: "Community feedback has shaped FAU-G: Domination from the beginning. FBL 2.0 is the pinnacle of this, merging player aspirations with upskilling. We can’t wait to share what’s next.”

"This is a movement"

Players from all over India came to Mumbai to compete at t he FAU-G: Bharat League 2.0 Finals over the weekend. Over 200 gamers and influencers took part, with 100-plus finalists from 28 states and 70-plus cities and towns. You can check out the action here. 

It's expected to be the first of many tournaments. Mentor Shri Akshay Kumar told the crowd in attendance that it's "not just a game," but a full-on movement. The game itself benefits the families of the country's armed forces. 

"This is our game. Our stage. Our champions," he said.

India making its own mobile shooter aimed at the esports scene is a big deal. Currently dominated by Battlegrounds Mobile India, the country has a very massive mobile shooter scene. While other titles are often banned, this Indian-made game offers another opportunity for the competitive shooter scene to grow. India also started its own Mobile Legends: Bang Bang and Honor of Kings scenes this year. 

FAU-G: Domination is being touted as a more grassroots esports scene, allowing new players to rise up rather than target already-established teams and organizations. This is a way to continue growing the esports scene across India. 

"When we set out the build FAU-G: Domination we never expected a player from Assam to make the trip to Mumbai to win” says Deepak Ail, CEO and co-founder of FAU-G: Domination developer Dot9 Games. “We’re grateful for our community that’s resonated with our game, and we hope FBL continues to be the competitive playground to make their dreams come true.”