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From Flappy Bird to e-sports: Can Vietnam’s gaming scene level up?

The country’s mobile games are second only to China’s for global downloads, yet most are lower-value casual games

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Jamille Tran

Jamille Tran

Published Fri, Jun 26, 2026 · 02:00 PM
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    • Producing titles worthy of being included in e-sports is a very different challenge from succeeding in the casual segment, say experts.
    • Producing titles worthy of being included in e-sports is a very different challenge from succeeding in the casual segment, say experts. IMAGE: GARETH CHUNG, BT (WITH AI ASSISTANCE)

    [HO CHI MINH CITY] Last month, in a colourful convention hall adorned with giant cut-outs and models of gaming characters, e-sports teams from across South-east Asia sat under bright stage lights, competing before a packed audience and live-stream viewers across the region.

    However, unlike at tournaments in East Asia, Europe or North America, where teams have flashy computer rigs, most players were on their phones.

    The inaugural SEA Esports Nations Cup, held in Ho Chi Minh City in May as part of gaming festival Vietnam GameVerse 2026, demonstrates both the region’s mobile-first nature and Vietnam’s push to become a gaming power.

    BrunchGamingmobile appsVietnamAsean BusinessAseanAsia-Pacific

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