Meet esports star: Kosta, tutor at NZMA

Meet Kosta Nuridzhanyan from Russia: esports tutor at NZMA by day, esports caster by night.

As an esports caster and analyst, Kosta provides insightful commentary for esports viewers, similar to traditional sports commentators. Specialising in Rainbow Six Siege and World of Tanks, Kosta earned the nickname ‘Cthulhu’ for his sharp analytical skills and vibrant personality.

Kosta's nickname is inspired by H. P. Lovecraft's fictional cosmic creature ‘Cthulhu’.

"To combine my nationality with a cool name, I named my YouTube channel ‘The Russian Cthulhu.' Over time, it got shortened to Cthulhu, which ended up sticking.”

Career highlights for Kosta include serving as a caster and analyst for English broadcasts at the ANZ Premier Leagues and World of Tanks Championship International in 2023, casting the Valorant Red Bull Campus Clutch Regional Qualifiers and Finals in 2021-2022, and observing the Asia League and Oceania League in 2024.

Kosta has also played a key role in advancing the esports scene in New Zealand, bringing his enthusiasm and expertise to the local Valorant community. His contributions span grassroots events and major international tournaments, cementing his reputation as a local role model in esports.

With the global gaming industry surpassing the combined worth of the film and music industries, Cthulhu is committed to playing a part in the growth of New Zealand's esports sector, which continues to generate over $400 million in earnings.*

“The esports industry in New Zealand is still growing. I'm glad I can use my role as an esports tutor at NZMA to expand the industry and bolster future talent.”

* www.thespinoff.co.nz/partner/24-10-2023/the-untapped-potential-of-new-zealands-gaming-industry