The evolving gaming ecosystem in India

The Indian online gaming ecosystem has been on an exponential growth trajectory since the early 2020s. With Indians pivoting to the segment as their preferred mode of entertainment, the sector is set to draw an impressive Rs 231 billion by 2025, thus becoming one of the most sought-after spaces for the global online gaming community.
 
Development initiatives by esports organizations and educational institutions at the grassroots level have played a significant role in nurturing young talents, not only in gaming but also in content creation. This has led to the emergence of skilled esports players and content creators who have become an integral part of the industry's growth. The proliferation of dedicated esports arenas and gaming cafes across the country has provided a conducive environment for gamers to hone their skills, compete, and interact with like-minded individuals, fostering a sense of community. Moreover, the recognition of esports as a viable career path has driven more individuals to pursue full-time roles in the industry, be it as players, coaches, or analysts.

The surge in popularity of streaming platforms like YouTube and Twitch has enriched the gaming experience by offering a diverse range of content, from live matches to informative tutorials, reviews, and engaging vlogs, thereby expanding the reach and appeal of the Indian gaming ecosystem.
 
While gaming on mobile devices is more prevalent in the country, over the last few months, people have also shifted to gaming on dedicated laptops. The introduction of gaming laptops has elevated the Indian esports ecosystem. Their portability and high-performance capabilities to support heavy-duty AAA titles have provided professional and aspiring gamers with the flexibility to compete, practice, and create content from virtually anywhere.

This accessibility has broadened the pool of talent and allowed esports enthusiasts to participate actively in competitive gaming events. Moreover, it has reduced the barrier to entry for those who may not afford dedicated gaming setups, making esports a more inclusive and diverse field. With the growth of gaming laptops in India, the country has witnessed a surge in the number of gamers, content creators, and esports events, contributing significantly to the overall vibrancy and success of the Indian esports ecosystem.
 
This has encouraged technology giants to bring forth more innovations in the segment and introduce solutions that offer elevated and immersive user experiences. Companies have been diligently working towards bettering their software solutions while extending sturdy hardware that can support gaming marathons.  Over the last decade, the industry has undergone a remarkable transformation in terms of devices and machinery. This evolution can be observed as we shifted from handheld battery-operated devices to powerful personal computers where users had to source monitors and CPUs individually. This further progressed to specialized gaming laptops and PCs capable of handling high-end graphics. Most recently, we've seen the emergence of handheld gaming devices powered by Windows, marking a fascinating journey in product development. Consumers today are not seeking devices that offer subpar experience, instead, they are looking for a premium machine that packs power and can sustain prolonged sessions of gaming be it for hyper-casual gaming titles or for AAA titles.
 
Companies have been increasingly launching solutions and products that are limited to functionality but are also aesthetically pleasing and compact to make the idea of gaming on the go more feasible. Gaming tablets that double as a laptop, dual touch screen laptops allow gamers to show off their creativity and unique flair are a few of the examples.
 
With the precedent developments in the segment, the Indian gaming ecosystem is now a monumental revenue stream for the country. In 2022 the projected valuation was at Rs 135 billion for online games and with the hardware revenue contributing another Rs 23.7 million in 2023.
 
Gaming is not just a rare phenomenon in the country anymore, it is a pop culture movement. The growing esports ecosystem in India has not only unlocked opportunities for players and enthusiasts but has also created a thriving industry with significant economic and cultural impact. As this momentum continues, India is poised to become a major player in the global esports landscape. Furthermore, considering the remarkable innovations taking place in this sector and the increasing embrace of these advancements in India, I am eager to see the technological innovations that this field will bring and how they will significantly enhance the user experience.

The author is Vice President, Consumer & Gaming PC, System Business Group, Asus India. (Views are personal)

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