MonteCristo and Thorin launch media network Last Free Nation 

Last week, esports veterans Thorin and MonteCristo launched a new, independent talent media network Last Free Nation focused on esports podcasts and content creation. According to the release, the network is dedicated to “giving fans access to the most respected and notorious talent in esports sharing real opinions, hot takes, and dynamic conversations.”

The project was co-founded by the former esports broadcaster, analyst, and organization owner Christopher “MonteCristo” Mykles alongside esports journalist and former Counter-Strike analyst Duncan “Thorin” Shields. Last Free Nation has also brought in podcast executive Peter Morris as the company’s CEO. 

Furthermore, the project is associated with other notable esports figures such as Richard Lewis, Auguste “Semmler” Massonnat, Daniel “Dgon” Gonzales, Wolf Schröder, Christian “IWillDominate” Rivera and Alex “MauiSnake” Ellenberg.

Last Free Nation to feature numerous esports podcasts 

Last Free Nation will accommodate a range of esports podcasts, including the League of Legends series Summoning Insight and Competitive Edge, CS:GO podcasts Revenge By the Numbers, and Snake and Banter, as well as the industry podcast The Four Horsemen. Moreover, League of Legends fans can look forward to a brand-new show titled Power Spike. 

Besides podcasts, the network will also produce daily content and docuseries, and will offer other agency services such as creative development, marketing, advertising, distribution, sponsorships, merchandise development, and live touring.

Reach 3.5 million fans

Considering the reach of each individual show featured on Last Free Nation, the network has reportedly a total estimated reach of 3.5 million fans. According to Forbes, Last Free Nation has signed a “six-figure” partnership with Esportsbet.io, a betting platform that allows users to bet on esports using cryptocurrencies, which has been previously advertised on Mykles and Shields’ podcast.

Thorin commented in a press release:

“In an industry controlled by video game publishers and tournament organizers, esports fans crave more than commoditized content, they want to connect with authentic voices. Last Free Nation will provide a space for talent of diverse viewpoints to come together to provide honest and entertaining conversations.”

Too controversial figures?

While some esports fans are excited about the idea of an umbrella brand for content produced by well-known esports talent, hoping that it will bring accountability to esports, others argue that some of the featured figures are simply too controversial for such a thing. Specifically, Thorin has been recently criticized by many fans and community members for his controversial takes, picking fights with other famous industry figures, and unwillingness to accept criticism.

However, it remains to be seen whether Last Free Nation will become a p[platform for esports drama, or rather a credible source of the high-quality in-depth content we all want. 

Header: Last Free Nation