Steve Maida Reclaims Luminosity Gaming with leak Smash Roster Secured
In a nostalgic full circle twist, founder Steve Maida has reacquired Luminosity Gaming, ensuring its current Super Smash Bros. Ultimate roster remains intact after paying players and creators in full from the sale proceeds.
The announcement hit X, sparking excitement among fans, while historical debts and unpaid past creators fall squarely on former owner Vertiqal Studios.
Maida’s Basement to Boardroom Journey
“I’M BAAAAAACK! I’ve reacquired Luminosity Gaming! WOW! Where to begin! What a full circle moment,” Maida posted on LinkedIn, reflecting on starting the org in his dad’s basement as a “kid addicted gamer” dreaming of a Counter Strike squad.
He quit his corporate job, hit early highs like spotting a fan in Luminosity merch at the mall and sold it previously to an NHL team. “It’s been an absolutely wild ride, and I couldn’t be happier to be back in control of my baby. Excited for the future!”
From Vertiqal Turmoil to Takeover
Luminosity was snapped up by Vertiqal Studios from Enthusiast Gaming in August 2025 for content expansion, inheriting $2.6 million in liabilities.
Payment woes soon surfaced, top Smash pros “MkLeo” and “Sonix” voiced sponsorship uncertainties, with Vertiqal admitting they’d taken on a “distressed company” with “management issues.”
Enthusiast’s Alex Gonzalez had pushed back, touting a “strong foundation.” Now, with Maida back, the Smash squad featuring MkLeo, Sonix, “Maister”, and “Marss” stays listed on the site, while League of Legends reads “TBD”
Current Luminosity Rosters
- Super Smash Bros. Ultimate: MkLeo, Sonix, Maister, Marss
- League of Legends: TBD
Maida’s return signals a fresh chapter for the legacy brand, with Smash potentially leading the way.
Since: October 29, 2025
