The esports scene is buzzing with the latest development from India as two powerhouse organizations, GodLike and S8UL, have decided to join forces. This strategic collaboration is a direct response to unforeseen challenges that threatened their participation in a major international event.
GodLike and S8UL Unite for COD Mobile World Championship
Faced with visa obstacles that could have sidelined their teams, GodLike and S8UL have merged their rosters to compete in the COD Mobile World Championship 2025 Finals in Katowice, Poland, from November 7th to 9th. With the merger, the new team, dubbed Newgen Ninjas, combines top talent from both organizations. The roster includes three players from S8UL and two from GodLike, showcasing a formidable lineup ready to take on the global stage. Visa delays, however, remain a significant hurdle due to the backlog of applications, with the next available appointment for Indians set in 2026.
Newgen Ninjas and the Larger Impact
The esports community is eager to see the performance of Newgen Ninjas, which will feature Manas “VipeR” Jani and Arnav “Warden” Kalantri from GodLike, along with Jezz, Giffran “Frann” Prakasa, and Gustav “Marvel” Sausse from S8UL. In a surprising turn, both organizations have decided to exit Call of Duty Mobile esports post-championship. S8UL’s creator, Sid, expressed eagerness to address the challenges faced by CODM esports, reflecting wider frustrations about the handling of visa issues by tournament organizers.
Visa Complications Affect Multiple Teams
GodLike and S8UL are not alone in their struggles. Stand Point Gaming from China also faced visa challenges, resulting in their slot being awarded to OUG. Similarly, the merger of GodLike and S8UL led to an open slot, now filled by Europe’s Animus. Despite efforts by Activision to mitigate these issues, complications remain, highlighting ongoing challenges for international esports competitions.