Sony Interactive Entertainment Sells EVO Stake to NODWIN Gaming
Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE) has sold its ownership stake in the Evolution Championship Series (EVO) to NODWIN Gaming, a company owned by Nazara Technologies and backed by Sony Group Corporation. Despite stepping away from co-ownership, SIE confirmed it will remain a global sponsor of EVO until 2028, ensuring PlayStation continues to have a strong presence at the world’s biggest fighting game tournament.
Transition of Ownership
SIE originally acquired EVO alongside RTS in 2021 with the goal of elevating the competitive fighting game scene. Phil Rosenberg, SIE’s senior vice president and head of global partner development and relations, reflected on the move:
“When SIE acquired Evo alongside RTS in 2021, our goal was to help the Evo community grow and spotlight the skills and passion of fighting game fans on a global stage. As SIE transitions to become an Evo sponsor, the momentum for Evo has never been stronger, following a successful Las Vegas event and upcoming expansion to new regions. We look forward to supporting the continued growth of Evo globally.”
With NODWIN Gaming stepping in as co-owner alongside RTS, the company’s co-founder and managing director, Akshat Rathee, emphasized the importance of maintaining EVO’s legacy:
“Evo was built by a team whose authenticity and passion for the fighting game community are unmatched. We will continue SIE’s great work and honor the legacy of everyone who has made it what it is today, while opening the door for a new generation to experience the spirit of Evo.”
New Partnerships and Future Growth
The update also revealed that Qiddiya has joined as a new global partner of EVO and is now an investor in co-owner RTS. EVO organizers describe this expanded partnership network as crucial for the tournament’s future growth and ability to reach new regions and audiences.
While SIE is no longer part of EVO’s ownership structure, its role as a long-term sponsor ensures that PlayStation will remain a fixture at the event. Fans can expect to see PlayStation hardware and exclusive titles showcased at EVO, similar to how attendees this year had the chance to try the FlexStrike fight stick and test Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls.
What do you think about Sony’s decision to shift from part-owner to sponsor? Will this strengthen EVO’s global presence, or do you think it signals a step back for PlayStation’s influence in the fighting game community?
