The Indian esports industry is witnessing an unprecedented surge in 2023, with prize pools reaching astonishing heights of over ₹2.1 crore. This exponential growth can be attributed to the return of popular game Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) to the scene. The game, which faced suspension in July 2022, was welcomed with immense joy by the community.
The revival of BGMI on 29th May has acted as a catalyst, breathing new life into the Indian esports ecosystem. Additionally, Skyesports’ foray into Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO) has further boosted the flourishing esports landscape in the country. Several major tournaments will be taking place in the following months, each contributing significantly to the flourishing esports landscape.
Upcoming Major Esports Tournaments in India
Following are a few of the major esports tournaments that will take place in the second half of 2023.
BGMI Masters Series Season 2 – ₹2.1 Crore
The BGMI Masters Series (BGMS) is one of the marquee events on the calendar, which started on 4th August and conclude on 27th August. Boasting a staggering prize pool of ₹2.1 crore, this tournament is will attract top-tier talent from across the country. The BGMS not only promises to showcase the finest gameplay but also aims to foster the esports ecosystem in India. As participants battle it out on the virtual battlegrounds, the competition is all set to draw a massive audience, sparking interest in esports and motivating aspiring gamers to take their passion more seriously.
Battlegrounds Mobile India Series 2023 – ₹2 Crore
The Battlegrounds Mobile India Series (BGIS) 2023, scheduled from 20th July 2023 to 14th October 2023, is another major event making waves in the Indian esports scene. With an impressive prize pool of ₹2 crore, the BGIS will entice even more players to join the competitive circuit, leading to an expansion of the talent pool. This, in turn, will create lucrative opportunities for teams, organizations, and sponsors to invest in the rapidly growing esports market, fueling its further growth in India.
The BGMS is the only tournament to be broadcasted live on TV, further amplifying its reach and impact on the esports scene in India.
Skyesports Masters -₹2 Crore
Diversifying the gaming landscape, India’s first-ever franchise Esports League, Skyesports Masters, is all set to make a profound impact. Focused on the popular game Counter-Strike: Global Offensive (CS:GO), the league boasts a prize pool of ₹2 crore. By adopting a franchise model, Skyesports Masters aims to enhance the professional aspect of esports in India. The introduction of franchising will attract investments from businesses and entrepreneurs looking to be part of the thriving esports phenomenon, thereby fortifying the ecosystem.
The impact of these tournaments extends beyond mere prize money. The Indian esports community is experiencing an upswing in viewership, engagement, and support. As audiences continue to grow, the opportunities for content creators, streamers, and event organizers also expand. This holistic development helps create a robust esports infrastructure. This attracts sponsorships and endorsements from various industries, thereby providing financial stability to players and organizations.
Challenges Faced
Unfortunately, Garena’s Free Fire has not yet received the green signal from the Indian government. Once one of the most popular esports titles in India, Free Fire significantly contributed to the fostering of the Indian esports ecosystem. However, the government of India banned the title in February 2022. Notaby, Free Fire MAX, the game’s alternate version to offer a premium gameplay experience, is still available to play. However, it has not received much attention from the community. Despite the suspension of its main game, Garena recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Uttar Pradesh Government to further develop esports in the state.
Stay updated with the latest news in gaming and esports by signing up for early access to TalkEsport’s Mobile App. Follow us on Twitter and Google News to ensure you never miss the exciting updates.
