Riot Games takes over Southeast Asia region, ends Garena deal

Starting in January 2023, Riot Games will self-publish League of Legends and Teamfight Tactics in the Southeast Asia region. This change puts an end to a 12-year partnership between Riot and Singapore-based developer Garena.

Riot is making big moves in the Southeast Asian market that will completely change the experience for players in that region. The countries affected by this change include the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Macau, Thailand, and Vietnam. Riot already self-publishes Valorant, Legends of Runeterra, and League of Legends: Wild Rift in the region. Taking over League of Legends and Teamfight Tactics is the natural next step.

From November 18 through December 31, players must transfer their accounts from Garena to Riot. Players will receive incentives based on how early they transition with earlier being better. Riot even created a temporary site to explain the migration process step by step.

Once players become Riot players, they will get access to all the services provided by the developer including localization, billing, and player support. Players that failed to migrate before January 2023 will lose their accounts after the switch.

Riot Games expands operations in Asia

The move is part of Riot’s expansion in the Asian continent. According to the developer, it plans to open offices in key countries like the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, and Malaysia. Riot also announced its intention to put more effort into Japan and India.

As part of the takeover, Riot will continue operating the Pacific Championship Series and is taking over the Vietnam Championship Series for League of Legends esports. While considered minor regions, these two competitions consistently produce teams that challenge major regions’ squads at international competitions.

Assuming the total operation of these two leagues is a step toward their growth. Riot can now implement models that have been successful in other regions and further support teams and players that are aspiring to reach the top competitive level.