Cover-Credits:
Riot Games’ first Indian Valorant agent, Harbor, was released on 18th October for the entire player base to enjoy. Being the first Indian character in the hero-based first-person shooter, Riot Games wanted to launch him with inspiration from the best of Indian cinema and music and authentically represent the multi-faceted and colorful country. The company organized a launch event in Mumbai, India for the release of Harbor. The fans were entertained by a number of Indian esports personalities, influencers, and celebrities during the event. Apart from the physical community event, Riot Games rolled out a number of digital activities for players to enjoy.
Fanfare & pomp at Mumbai for Harbor’s release
The launch party for Harbor saw the participation of famous Indian celebrities including Tanmay Bhat and Abhish Mathew. They were joined by Ocean Sharma and a number of well-known Indian influencers, including Ujjwal Chaurasia (Techno Gamerz), Naman Mathur (MortaL), Tanmay Singh (Scout) and Shagufta Iqbal (Xyaa). Valorant pro players including Ganesh “SkRossi” Gangadhar, Rishab “Rakazone” Karanwal, Rohan “HydraFlick” Ledwani, and Sabyasachi "Antidote" Bose were also among those present. The event concluded with a performance from ARB4, Mangal Suvarnan, and Tienas, the music team that produced Harbor’s theme song, RAJA.
Talking about Harbor’s iconic launch, Riot Games’ India & South Asia Lead Marketing, Ashish Gupta said, “We have been humbled by the love and passion Harbor has received so far! This is just the beginning. Our Indian fans and players can look forward to more hyperlocal experiences in the future. We hope players enjoy the slate of unique digital content we have planned for the next few weeks that will share the warmth and beauty of Indian entertainment and culture to the world.”
Digital activities for players
To welcome Harbor to the fold, Riot Games also rolled out a number of digital activities for players to enjoy, these include:
● A Community Event Supercut where fans can relive the excitement, thrills, and best moments from the Harbor community event in Mumbai.
● Diwali Greeting Video
● Riot Games will soon be releasing a behind-the-scenes video of Ankit “V3nom” Panth’s Harbor cosplay.
● Harbor illustrations were also posted by Riot Games on its social media channels.
● To celebrate the passion of Valorant fans, Riot will be releasing a global fanbeat video later this year featuring the best Harbor fan art submissions and the
Entry period is now open. Fans can click here for details on how to enter.
● Behind-the-scenes video with Sunil Malhotra, the voice behind Harbor.
● Harbor also peered down at the crowds from a wide billboard in one of Dubai’s busiest areas (Jumeirah Beach Residence). A scaled-up 3D rendition of the agent showed off his water abilities as he brought down a cascade of water and shot a sphere of water across the street to a second billboard
● Riot Games also posted a video of a talented artist capturing an incredible moment from Harbor’s cinematic trailer in a hand-painted poster reminiscent of traditional Bollywood posters decorating the streets of India.
Right from the chai and samosa chaat from the teaser to the iconic bike featured in the official trailer, Riot Games has captured the attention and hearts of the Indian player base.
