Tier-2 Cities: The rise of India’s gaming community

The increasing popularity of smartphones, PC gaming, technological advancements, and the growing importance of gaming as a career option have all contributed to the tremendous transformation that is about to occur in the gaming industry. Interestingly, a Dentsuresearch estimates that the number of Indian gamers would reach 700 million by FY25, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12%.Even if this is an exponential increase, the community is one of the main forces behind the change.
The community is growing quickly, whether it is through live streaming or e-sports leagues. Let’s examine the main elements driving this community’s expansion:
Smartphone boom:
India’s smartphone market is growing steadily, with over 600 million users, thanks to reasonably priced and easily accessible internet. By democratising access to gaming and drawing in more players, cell phones will act as growth accelerators in India, where 1 billion users are anticipated by 2026. This has led to more people buying games, especially as UPI is now widely used as a practical payment option.
Rise of gamers in tier-2 cities and beyond:
The idea that gaming is only found in large cities has been debunked, and the trend has spread to tier-2 cities and beyond. Localized content development and regional gaming events have been made possible by the accessibility of gaming platforms, growing internet usage, and smartphone gaming. In the end, this has promoted a gaming culture that is more diverse and inclusive. The Indian DOTA 2 team’s explosive performance to win the bronze medal in the first Commonwealth Esports Championship last year only serves to encourage more people to pursue professional gaming.
Innovation in PC gaming:
Today’s Indian gamers have different demands, therefore gaming PCs have changed to accommodate bigger screens, portability, and significant software updates. Gaming devices are becoming more innovative and powerful, but we are also seeing more muscle placed into smaller, light devices, so there are options for everyone.
Rising importance of e-sports leagues:
The gaming industry has seen significant change as a result of the growing prominence of e-sports leagues, which are now recognized and supported by OEMs among other sources. Greater prize pools have also led to higher levels of audience participation, viewing, and engagement. The rise of collegiate gaming events, streamer showdowns and gaming leagues are generating interest across towns and villages across India. Gaming companies are also promoting the gaming culture locally by hosting a variety of weekend activities. To guarantee that the excitement only grows and that more people participate, these companies are working with influencers and gaming experts.
Growth of livestreaming:
Platforms like Twitch and YouTube have given players a lot of chances to show off their skills and provide aspiring players advice and strategies. Additionally, they have helped players transform their hobbies into successful careers, which has raised gaming’s prominence nationwide. With the Indian game streaming market predicted to reach $200 million by 2025, the potential will only increase.
An active and prominent community has had a significant influence on the development of the Indian gaming business, transforming it from a recreational activity to a phenomenon influencing culture. This shift has not only made gaming a respectable professional choice, but it has also attracted significant investments and spread its influence well outside cities. With its wider and more diverse audience, gaming has broken through conventional barriers to establish itself as a major influence in modern society and open up new avenues for exploration.
Pujan Chadha, Director for Product Marketing, Consumer and Small Business, Dell Technologies, India