As per a report by Fortune Business Insights, the global eSports market is expected to grow from $1.22 billion in 2021 to $1.44 billion by 2022. With this growth comes opportunities for new markets to emerge and develop. In this blog post, we will take a look at the eSports market in India – its current state and potential for growth.
Using data from research firms and industry experts, we will try to answer some important questions about the Indian eSports market: How big is it? What are the key drivers of growth? And what challenges does it face? Let’s get started.
Craze of eSports in India
India is a rapidly growing market for eSports and the market share is going to touch INR 11 billion by 2025. Some of the key factors that witnessed this rapid growth include:- the increasing popularity of online gaming, the proliferation of mobile devices, and the availability of high-speed internet connectivity. As a result, eSports are increasingly being seen as a viable career option for young people in India.
There are currently two main types of eSports tournaments in India: online and offline. Online tournaments are typically organized by gaming platforms such as Twitch or YouTube, while offline tournaments are usually organized by gaming cafes or LAN centers. The prize pools for these tournaments can range from a few thousand rupees to several lakhs, depending on the size and scale of the event.
The Indian eSports market is currently dominated by mobile games such as PUBG Mobile and Call of Duty: Mobile. However, PC games such as Dota 2 and Counter-Strike: Global Offensive are also gaining in popularity. In terms of genres, multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA) games are the most popular type of eSports in India, followed by first-person shooters (FPS) and real-time strategy (RTS) games.
As the Indian eSports market continues to grow, it is expected that more companies will start investing in this sector. This will lead to more professional teams being set up, bigger prize pools being offered at tournaments, and more opportunities for talented players to make a living from playing video games.
Current scenario of eSports in India
eSports is a rapidly growing industry with immense potential. In India, the eSports industry is expected to grow at a CAGR of 30.72% during the period of 2020-2025. As per a research report by EY, the number of active eSports players in India is expected to reach 643 million by 2025. The current scenario of eSports in India is very promising and the future looks even better.
The recent COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a sudden increase in the popularity of online gaming and eSports in India. This has created a huge opportunity for the growth of the eSports industry in India. With proper infrastructure and support, India has the potential to become a leading country in the global eSports market.
Market potential of eSports in India
The eSports market in India is still in its early stages of development, with a small but dedicated community of gamers and fans. However, the market potential and growth prospects are significant. This rapid growth is being driven by the increasing popularity of online and mobile gaming, the proliferation of broadband Internet connections, and the growing disposable incomes of young urban consumers.
Major Factors that are driving the growth of eSports in India
There are a number of factors that are driving the growth of eSports in India.
- Firstly, there is a large and growing population of young people who are avid gamers. This demographic is typically highly engaged with technology and media, making them prime targets for eSports marketing.
- Secondly, India has a booming digital economy, with more and more people having access to high-speed internet and gaming platforms. This has created an environment that is conducive to the growth of eSports.
- Finally, there is a growing pool of talented gamers in India who are able to compete at the highest levels. This has helped to generate interest and excitement around eSports in the country.
The future of eSports in India
eSports is a rapidly growing industry with immense potential in India. According to a report by KPMG, the eSports industry in India is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 42% to reach Rs 1167 crore by 2022.
This growth is being driven by several factors, including the increasing penetration of broadband and mobile Internet, the rise of streaming platforms, and the growing popularity of mobile games. As a result, eSports is becoming increasingly accessible and visible in India. This visibility is translating into larger audiences and more opportunities for professional gamers.
For instance, the ESL India Premiership had a prize pool of Rs 1 crore in 2018, up from Rs 30 lakh in 2017. Similarly, the top prize at the PUBG Mobile Club Open 2019 was Rs 50 lakh.
These prize pools are attracting top talent from around the country and helping to professionalize the eSports scene in India. In addition, brands are beginning to invest in eSports sponsorship and advertising. For example, you can visit loco.gg and have a free online gaming experience at your comfort.
Challenges that need to be addressed for the growth of eSports in India
- One of the biggest challenges is the lack of government recognition and support. Without government backing, it is difficult for eSports organizations to secure funding and attract sponsors.
- In addition, there is also a lack of awareness about eSports among the general public. Many people still see it as a niche hobby and are not familiar with the concept of professional gaming.
- As a result, there is a limited pool of potential players and spectators. Another challenge is the lack of proper infrastructure. Most eSports tournaments in India are held online due to the lack of dedicated gaming arenas.
- This limits the ability of organizers to host large-scale events and attract international teams.
- Lastly, there is a need for more dedicated eSports channels on television and streaming platforms. Currently, there are only a handful of channels that regularly broadcast eSports content.
- This makes it difficult for fans to keep up with the latest tournaments and developments in the scene.
How to make eSports more popular in India
There are a number of factors that need to be addressed in order to make eSports more popular in India.
- First and foremost, there needs to be a greater focus on creating Indian teams and players that can compete at an international level.
- This will not only help to raise the profile of eSports in India, but it will also give Indian gamers something to aspire to.
- In addition, there needs to be greater investment in infrastructure, both in terms of hardware and broadband connectivity.
- And finally, there needs to be more awareness of eSports events and tournaments, both within the gaming community and among the general public.
Conclusion
The Indian eSports market is growing rapidly and is expected to reach new heights in the coming years. If you are looking to get into this market, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure that you understand the culture and what appeals to Indian gamers. Second, invest in quality content and marketing initiatives that will resonate with your target audience. Finally, be prepared to face some stiff competition from well-established players in the industry. With these tips in mind, you can confidently enter the Indian eSports market and reap its many benefits. Are you ready to take your business to the next level?
