Esports, or electronic sports, is a form of competition in a provided environment using video games. Indian eSports industry can be parted into two: pre and post Covid-19 conditions. Of course, pandemic was devastating and considered almost a threat to human civilization. Yet, people sitting idle during lockdown had nothing except electronic gadgets including TV, Mobile, Play Station and all in hands for timepass or connect to family, relatives or friends, especially for them who got trapped in a distant location.
People played video games more and more to relieve stress, winning prize money and stay connected to the society. Progressively, negativity about gaming were shaded with good positive reasons to opt for video gaming. Ice on the cake was Government of India’s support to eSports as any other formal sports in the country. Alongside, technology was busy inventing advanced equipment, supporting favourable gaming ecosystem. Result, gaming market got a boost in India.
Now, the gaming industry has come a long way and has grown into a multi-billion-dollar industry across the globe. Gaming industry has seen a rapid growth in recent years, and the number of gamers and technological advancements has been increased, twinned with a rise in the internet penetration. With the such successful rise in demand, the future of gaming in the Indian market is seemingly bright and promising.
Number of gamers has been multiplied and is one of the major contributors towards the growth of Indian gaming industry. As a recent report suggests, the number of gamers in India is estimated to reach 628 million by 2023. Reason behind such growth is the popularity of mobile games and the availability of affordable smartphones and data plans. Mobile gaming allows Indian gamers to play games anytime and anywhere.
Rising popularity of eSports is another contributing factor to Indian gaming industry growth. In India, esports has garnered a significant following in recent years and this growth in popularity is expected to continue. Having recognised the potential, the government of India has taken steps to promote the industry as a formal sport event.
In addition, technological advancements have also played a major role in the growth of the gaming industry in India. Technology advancements have made games more realistic and immersive, leading to an increased demand for gaming. It has also introduced several new gaming hardware and accessories in the Indian market.
An uplifted internet penetration among Indian public has also played a pivotal role in the growth of the gaming industry. Increasing number of internet users have multiplied the demand for online gaming.
The future of Indian gaming industry is definitely bright, with increasing number of gamers, rising popularity of esports, technological advancements and higher rate of internet penetration. Specially, the monetary aspect of gaming industry has become a major contributor to the country's economy. Ultimately, Indian government also recognized the potential of the gaming industry and has extended support towards promoting the industry, while creating a favourable environment for gaming organisations.