In 2023, India stands as the world’s most populous nation, and within its borders, a digital revolution is brewing. According to the India Games Market Report by Niko Partners, India is retaining its position as the fastest-growing gaming market in Asia. The report delves into the intricacies of India’s gaming landscape, revealing astounding figures and trends that paint a vivid picture of this growing industry.
The Unprecedented Growth of the Gaming Industry
India’s gaming ecosystem has witnessed an unprecedented growth in recent years. According to Niko Partners, the total number of gamers in India is projected to surge by a remarkable 343% between 2017 and 2027, soaring to a staggering 641.2 million by 2027. This surge is not limited to gamers alone; video games revenue is on an upward trajectory as well, with a forecasted 21% year-over-year increase in 2023, reaching an impressive $868 million.
Several key factors are fueling this gaming revolution in India. Rising disposable income levels among the population are enabling more people to access and enjoy gaming. Simultaneously, the widespread growth of internet connectivity is bridging the digital divide, connecting even remote regions to the gaming world. Furthermore, the prevalence of affordable smartphones is making gaming accessible to a broader and more diverse audience.
India vs. China: A Rivalry in Gaming Industry
A noteworthy aspect of this report is the comparison between India and China, two Asian giants in the gaming industry. In 2017, India had 144.9 million gamers, while China boasted 605.2 million. However, fast-forward to 2027, and India is all set to overtake its neighbor with 641.2 million gamers, showcasing an astounding 343% growth rate. In contrast, China’s gamer base is also growing but at a more moderate 21% rate.
Another statistic reveals that India is predominantly a mobile gaming market, with a massive 96.8% of gamers playing on smartphones and tablets.
In-Game Spending and Esports Engagement
Around 31% of all gamers in India are willing to spend money on video gaming. This denotes a substantial market for in-game purchases and monetization strategies. Moreover, a remarkable 71.8% of gamers actively engage with esports, pointing towards significant opportunities in this burgeoning sector.
The return of blockbuster games like Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) and Free Fire is a positive sign for the industry. This will attract both domestic and foreign game companies looking to tap into the Indian market. The report states that India’s gaming revenue, across all platforms, has reached $868 million in 2023. Additionally, it will reach $1.6 billion by 2027 with a 5-year CAGR of 17.2%. Concurrently, the gamer base is expected to swell to 641.2 million by 2027, growing at a 5-year CAGR of 10.1%.
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.
