About Wargaming Minsk
Wargaming Minsk was the original and largest studio of Wargaming, founded in 1998 in Belarus. The birthplace of World of Tanks, it was closed in April 2022 after Wargaming exited Russia and Belarus following the Ukraine invasion, suffering $250M+ in losses.
Company History
- Founded: August 2, 1998
- Founder: Victor Kislyi
- Location: Minsk, Belarus
- Status: Closed April 2022
Significance
- Original Wargaming studio
- Largest development center
- Birthplace of World of Tanks
- Belarus' biggest game studio
- Tech jewel of the country
2022 Closure
Following Russia's invasion of Ukraine:
- Strategic review of worldwide operations
- Decision to exit Russia and Belarus
- Closed Minsk, Moscow, St. Petersburg offices
- $250M+ losses, 30% market impact
- VIP employees offered relocation
- Business transferred to Lesta Studio (unaffiliated)
Legacy
World of Tanks launched from Minsk became one of the most successful free-to-play games globally with 100M+ registered players.
Aftermath
Wargaming opened new studios in Warsaw, Poland and Belgrade, Serbia to continue operations, becoming its 7th and 8th European studios with up to 400 employees.
Why Wargaming Minsk Mattered
- World of Tanks created here
- 1998 founding gaming pioneer
- Belarus' largest game studio
- Historic exit 2022 closure
- $250M+ sacrifice for principles
