Gaming

BIG appoints Christian “Blizzard” Chmiel as COO

Published

3 years ago

January 17, 2022

Reading Time: 2 minutes

Another 1.6 icon joins the BIG Family as we officially appoint Christian “Blizzard” Chmiel as our Chief Operating Officer!

A name synonymous with German Counter-Strike, Blizzard is someone who needs no introduction to 1.6 fans after his distinguished career in the game. Winning CPL Spain 2005, as well as bringing home nine EPS titles among many others, he now makes his return to esports in an administrative role at BIG.
After hanging up the mouse, Blizzard started his studies at the Technical University of Berlin, continuing his career in economic engineering at companies such as Viessmann and AVM. With his business experience as well as extensive background in Counter-Strike, Blizzard was the perfect choice for us, and has already shown his capabilities in the past year with us.
In his new role as our Chief Operating Officer, Blizzard will play an important part in shaping the organization in the coming years and realizing our vision. He will be in charge of many important processes and projects at BIG, and work with the executive team on a day to day basis to ensure the smooth running of our business operations.
It’s time for some Blizzness!

Statement Christian Chmiel, COO of BIG

European Gaming Congress 2024 (Warsaw, Poland)

After winning the German championship in 2009, I ended my lengthy career as a professional player and focused on my studies in economic engineering at the Technical University of Berlin. After nearly 10 years of professional experience as a quality engineer in development, I am delighted to have found my way back into Esports. Things that belong together are now coming together again! I am especially looking forward to working with old companions and esports pioneers at BIG again and to face many exciting challenges in my position as COO, and significantly contributing to the development and strategic direction of BIG. I would like to thank Daniel and Yilmaz from the bottom of my heart for the great trust they have placed in me by appointing me to this responsible position, and I can’t wait to make 2022 our best year yet with all of BIG’s employees and supporters! #GOBIG

Statement Daniel Finkler, CEO of BIG

After the introduction of Roman “Roman R.” Reinhardt earlier this week, I am very pleased to officially welcome Christian “Blizzard” Chmiel, one of Germany’s greatest esports legends, to BIG. After Christian Chmiel has already been able to successfully lead important projects within the organization for a longer time, including the establishment of the #GoBIG League and other partner projects, I am convinced that he will be able to take on new responsibilities with his outstanding skills. From now on, Christian “Blizzard” Chmiel will therefore be responsible for making many important decisions within the organization at the C-level as Chief Operating Officer / COO and for advancing important business initiatives that will have a significant impact on the development of BIG in the years to come.

FreezeNova

10-15% Of Gamers In Florida Show Signs Of Gaming Addiction: Here Are 10 Signs Your Kid Is Suffering From It (And How You Can Help)

Published

3 days ago

December 20, 2024

GamingAmericas.com

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Recent studies indicate that 10-15% of young gamers in Florida exhibit signs of gaming addiction. These findings underscore the need for early identification of symptoms to prevent negative impacts on children’s mental and physical health. Gaming addiction, if not dealt with, can lead to poor academic performance, social withdrawal, and even health problems.

Marin Cristian-Ovidiu, CEO of FreezeNova, discusses key indicators of gaming addiction and offers practical advice for parents.

Recognizing Early Signs

“Early recognition of gaming addiction is crucial in preventing long-term negative outcomes,” Marin explains. The following signs can help parents identify if their child might be developing an addiction:

Exhaustion and Irritability

Constant tiredness and grumpiness during the day could indicate late-night gaming sessions interfering with sleep.

Gaming Obsession

If gaming dominates your child’s thoughts and conversations, and they plan their day around it while neglecting other responsibilities, it could be a sign of addiction.

Decline in Academic Performance and Lost Interests

A noticeable decline in academic performance or loss of interest in previously enjoyed activities may suggest your child is prioritizing gaming over more important tasks.

Emotional Volatility

Extreme emotional reactions to in-game outcomes, such as uncontrolled anger, known as ‘Gamer Rage’, or intense celebrations, could indicate an unhealthy attachment to gaming.

Physical Strain

Signs of repetitive strain injuries like ‘Gamer’s Thumb’ or ‘Nintendo Neck’ from prolonged screen time are warning signals.

Neglecting Basic Needs

If your child is neglecting basic needs like eating, sleeping, or hygiene to keep playing, gaming has likely taken an unhealthy control over their life.

Creating a Supportive Environment

While video games can be a great source of entertainment and connection, around 70% of people with signs of gaming addiction also experience social disorders. Marin recommends a few tips for building a supportive and open environment for your child.

Teamwork and Setting Boundaries

“Parents and children should work together to create a healthy gaming environment. Gaming addiction requires a holistic approach,” Marin advises. Start by setting clear boundaries on gaming time to ensure there’s room for schoolwork, chores, and quality family time.

Revisit activities your child once loved, like football practice or exploring new hobbies together. It’s vital for your child to take breaks from screens, so create a balanced daily routine that includes homework, chores, exercise and just some gaming time. This allows your child to enjoy their games without neglecting other aspects of their life.

Open Communication

Maintain open communication. Discuss the games your child enjoys and any concerns you might have. By understanding their world, you can work together to find solutions.

Remember, you’re not alone. If you feel overwhelmed, seek professional help from specialists in gaming addiction. Marin concludes, “By working as a team, setting clear boundaries, and fostering open communication, we can help your child develop a healthy relationship with gaming and thrive in all areas of life.”

Compliance Updates

SYNOT Games Officially Certifies Over 140 Games in Brazil

Published

6 days ago

December 17, 2024

GamingAmericas.com

synot-games-officially-certifies-over-140-games-in-brazil

SYNOT Games has announced that more than 140 of its games have now been officially certified in Brazil.

“We are delighted to announce that more than 140 of our games have now been officially certified in Brazil. This significant achievement allows us to expand our reach and introduce a diverse selection of games to this dynamic market. Brazil represents a key opportunity for growth, and we are committed to delivering exceptional gaming experiences to the Brazilian audience,” the Company said.

“We are thrilled to introduce our portfolio in Brazil, offering innovative and engaging gameplay that promises to captivate and entertain players,” Martina Krajci, CCO at SYNOT Games, said.

Gaming

SPGA Introduces Code of Conduct to Highlight Member Commitment to Compliance and Safety in Social and Promotional Gaming

Published

7 days ago

December 16, 2024

GamingAmericas.com

spga-introduces-code-of-conduct-to-highlight-member-commitment-to-compliance-and-safety-in-social-and-promotional-gaming

The Social and Promotional Gaming Association (SPGA), an organization dedicated to providing stakeholder education and advocating for the responsible operation of social games offering promotional sweepstakes prizes, today announced the implementation of a Code of Conduct for its operator members.

The Code of Conduct is designed to spotlight the processes and technologies already in place at both SPGA member sites and the majority of social casinos offering promotional sweepstakes, also referred to as social sweeps games.

Social sweeps games combine the established social casino model, on which Americans have spent over $40 billion in the last decade, and add promotional prizes. No purchase is necessary to win prizes, and the vast majority of users play for free.

The foundational pillars of the Code of Conduct include the application of regulation-grade suppliers, technology, or policies to ensure:

Age verification to limit real money play to users 18 and older
Proper identity verification (Know Your Customer or KYC)
Location verification of customers
AML policies to ensure proper transaction monitoring

“The pillars of the SPGA Code of Conduct highlight the technology and processes already in place at most social sweeps operators to ensure that the millions of adults who enjoy these games do so in a safe and reliable environment,” said Camilla Wright of Red Knot Communications, a spokesperson for the SPGA.

“The standards of the Code of Conduct go above and beyond the accepted best practices for traditional social casinos.”

In the months ahead, the SPGA will release more details on the Code of Conduct, introduce additional pillars, and engage an external firm to certify member compliance with the Code.

“We look forward to continuing to develop the Code of Conduct to further strengthen the commitment of SPGA members to compliance and player protection while providing consumers with a highly social and engaging experience that is always free to play,” said Wright.