Moscow Becomes Russia's Esports Capital
Moscow has become the center of Russian esports, hosting nearly 80% of the country's professional organizations and a major cluster for video game and animation development, with significant infrastructure and events supporting the industry.
Consensus
- Nearly 80% of Russia's professional esports organizations are based in Moscow.
- The number of esports companies in Moscow has increased by 60% over the past seven years.
- The Moscow Cluster of Video Games and Animation in Skolkovo is a key venue for esports events and development.
- The cluster includes data processing centers, sound and photogrammetry studios, and high-resolution screening facilities.
- The cluster hosted 13 esports events in early 2026.
- Over 4,600 players participated in competitions during the first Moscow International Video Game Week.
- The cluster is expected to become the world's first full-cycle ecosystem for video game and animation development.
- Residents of the cluster receive tax benefits and support for project promotion.
- The cluster was opened in November 2025.
- A second cluster for media technologies is planned for 2026.
- The cluster hosted the final of the 'Cyberheroes of Moscow' tournament and the Moscow Championship in seven disciplines.
- The Moscow International Video Game Week was entered into the Russian Book of Records.
Points of divergence
- The Moscow Cluster of Video Games and Animation was opened by Sergey Sobyanin in November 2025. — vm
- The Moscow Cluster of Video Games and Animation includes a motion capture studio and a 800-square-meter media screen. — m24
- The second cluster for media technologies will cover 74,000 square meters and include a virtual production studio and technology showroom. — m24
- The Moscow Cluster of Video Games and Animation is part of the first global full-cycle ecosystem for video game, animation, and media product development. — vm
- The Moscow Cluster of Video Games and Animation has a total area of 55,000 square meters across three buildings. — m24
- The cluster hosted the first Moscow International Video Game Week in November 2025. — m24
- The Moscow Cluster of Video Games and Animation features a cyberarena, sound recording studios, photogrammetry studios, data processing center, and event zones. — vm
- The cluster includes a lecture hall and relaxation areas. — m24
- The Moscow Cluster of Video Games and Animation offers access to infrastructure and support measures including tax benefits and project promotion assistance. — vm
- Residents of the cluster can receive zero tax rates on profit and property for 10 years, exemption from VAT, reimbursement of customs duties on research goods, and international promotion support. — m24
Coverage (2 sources)
- How Moscow Became the Capital of Russian Cyber Sports — Вечерняя Москва
- Moscow secured the status of the capital of domestic esports — Москва 24