The mobile gaming industry has grown tremendously over the last few years with Free Fire becoming one of the biggest titles in esports, especially in India. Having recently finished first in the Free Fire India Championship 2021, Orangutan Elite is considered to be one of the best teams in Asia and are currently setting their sights on higher goals.
 
In this exclusive interview with SPOGO, Dev “Iconic” Kumar, In-Game Leader of Orangutan Elite speaks about being introduced to Free Fire, coming first at the Free Fire India Championship 2021, transitioning from Team Elite to Orangutan Elite, his views on esports being a viable career option, future goals and more!
 
Q1) When were you first introduced to Free Fire and what role do you play in the Orangutan Elite team during competitive tournaments?

I've had a fascination for esports ever since when I was a kid. For me, gaming was a type of stress relief, and I had no idea when it developed into a career. Today, I am well-known for a game called FreeFire, a mobile battle royale game, and my fans are enthusiastic about my abilities in the game. Competitive events for Orangutan Elite, I play the function of an IGL (In Game Leader).

Q2) The Orangutan Elite team finished first in the Free Fire India Championship 2021 Fall. What was the experience of competing in that tournament?
 
The experience was incomparable. The event finally broke the curse of finishing second in the majority of competitions. We as a team were extremely pleased with our performance and success, since the tournament was not easy at all, as we faced very difficult competition throughout the tournament. We never gave up, trusted our abilities and teamwork, and the rest is history in terms of tournament outcomes.

Q3) Your team recently changed from Team Elite to Orangutan Elite. What are the changes between the two and how difficult or easy has the transition been?
 
We haven't had any difficulties because the roster hasn't changed; only the name on the jersey has. We have previously worked as a team and will continue to do so. Our bonding as a team is unshakeable, and when we're together, we have such a fantastic synergy that we can play a pivotal role in the game. We are aware of each other's weaknesses and strengths. As a result, the adjustment has been simple. We're all here together, and we'll keep playing together till we reach our ultimate goal.
 
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Q4) As the In-Game leader for Orangutan Elite, what are the various challenges that you face in your role? How do you overcome them?
 
I don't have many issues as an in-game leader. We've been playing as a team for a long time and are familiar with each other's skills. We are an indestructible unit that, when playing together, can be a major headache for any opponent. As a result, being the IGL of this team is a huge accomplishment, as I have the chance to lead such a renowned squad with a dedicated fan base that will support us no matter what.

Q5) Do you consider esports to be a viable career option in India and what must be done to have a clear roadmap to enter this field professionally?
 
Yes, I think esports is a viable career in India with the rise of the fan base and growing acceptability of esports as a career has resulted in an increase in gamers and those interested in this business. Brands and other organisations are also seeing the potential and supporting the development of these individuals. Always give it your best and never give up if you want to be a professional esports player and keep grinding. At the very least, give it your all and don't quit too soon. The importance of consistency and regularity cannot be emphasised. In addition to playing games, you must maintain a disciplined lifestyle.

Q6) What are your personal goals as well as ambitions with Orangutan Elite in the future? How do you plan to accomplish them?
 
We wanted to be a part of an organisation where we could develop and achieve goals not inside the game but outside it as well so we joined Orangutan, and it was the best decision we could have made as a team in our esports careers.