India’s eGaming industry is poised for a phenomenal 2024, with explosive growth expected across sectors. From casual mobile gaming to competitive eSports, the landscape is transforming at a blistering pace. Let’s check out the key drivers fueling this exciting revolution, the challenges that need to be tackled.
Indian eGaming Outlook 2024: Growth Drivers
- Mobile Gaming: Smartphones are the ultimate gaming platform for the vast Indian audience. Mobile gaming market projected to reach $1.1 billion by 2025. Titles like BGMI and Free Fire MAX remain dominant. Upcoming games and esports-focused titles are gaining traction.
- Investment Bonanza: Global investors are taking note of India’s potential, pouring millions into domestic studios and esports organizations. In 2023, Krafton has invested in multiple ventures in India. They also introduced Incubator program for the upcoming game developers.
- Esports on the Rise: India’s esports scene is booming, with tournaments like Battlegrounds Mobile India Pro Series drawing millions of viewers. The recognition of esports by the Indian Olympic Association further legitimizes the industry and opens doors for future growth. Recently, Bihar government had conducted the first ever state level esports championship. They also announced the upcoming courses and degrees on Esports.
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Challenges to Navigate:
- Regulatory Landscape: The lack of clear and defined regulations poses a hurdle for investors and organizers. A well-defined framework is crucial for building a sustainable and healthy industry.
- Monetization Models: While in-app purchases and advertising drive revenue, exploring alternative monetization models like sponsorships and merchandising is essential for long-term growth.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Despite progress, rural areas still struggle with connectivity issues and limited access to high-end devices. Bridging this gap is crucial for inclusive growth.
- Talent Development: Nurturing skilled players, commentators, and event organizers is vital for India to compete on the global esports stage.
The online gaming industry saw a lot of developments in 2023 such as the return of BGMI, GST rise, India participating in Asian games for esports etc. While the RMG segment definitely saw a huge hit with the GST laws, the casual & mid-core gaming sector is growing exponentially. In 2024, we will see the continued growth of casual & mid-core gaming with more home grown publishers set to release their games and also a lot of investor attention being diverted away from the RMG space into core games. We are also witnessing a change in the demography of gamers, where a lot of them are engaging in gaming from the non-metro cities. While there might be a long winter for real money fantasy & casino games, the mid-core gaming sector will step out of the shadows and shape the gaming & esports industry of India.
Soham Thacker, Founder, Gamerji
The future of Indian eGaming is bright, teeming with potential and teeming with challenges. Embracing innovation, overcoming hurdles, and nurturing talent will be key to unlocking the full potential of this exciting industry.
