The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine has extended to the world of video games, with Lesta Games, the Russian studio behind the local version of World of Tanks and its offshoot Mir Tankov, now facing serious charges. Moscow has frozen all assets belonging to the company, accusing it of illegally funneling money from its titles to Ukraine.
Originally developed by Wargaming, World of Tanks was a massive success globally, including in Russia. However, following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, Wargaming pulled out of Russia and Belarus, citing the conflict. The company also raised funds for Ukrainian aid, a move that could potentially be considered a crime under Russian law. World of Tanks rights in Russia were subsequently transferred to Lesta Games, which took over the local version and developed Mir Tankov.
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Despite Lesta Games repeatedly distancing itself from Wargaming, claiming no relationship with the company, the Russian government moved to seize control of the studio. According to reports from PC Gamer, Moscow has accused Lesta Games' co-founder, Malik Khatazhaev, of being part of an “extremist group” allegedly linked to Viktor Kisly, the CEO of Wargaming. The evidence presented in court reportedly referenced Wargaming’s support for Ukraine, including public fundraising efforts.
In a strange twist, Russian media has reassured World of Tanks players that they won’t face arrest for spending money on the game, which could have potentially been funneled to Ukrainian causes. Anton Gorelkin, deputy chairman of the Duma’s Information Technology Committee, further commented that Lesta Games’ assets would likely be handed over to a “specialized Russian company.”
It’s important to note that Lesta Games only holds the rights to World of Tanks within Russia. Outside the country, Wargaming retains control of the game’s assets and intellectual property.
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