India's gaming market, one of the fastest growing in the world, has evolved from a niche hobby to a mainstream entertainment choice. With a young, digitally educated population and a growing digital ecosystem, the country is positioned as a major player in the global gaming landscape.

Mobile gaming, which accounts for nearly 80% of the market share in 2023, leads the charge, while segments such as PC and console gaming also show steady growth. This article delves into the dynamics of India's gaming market, focusing on the key segments—mobile, PC, and console gaming—and their genre preferences.

The Monopoly of Mobile Gaming

• Mobile gaming accounted for 79.8% of India’s gaming market revenue in 2023. Affordable Android smartphones from brands like Xiaomi, Realme, and Samsung have made gaming accessible across urban and rural India, bringing millions of new gamers online.
• As of 2023, India's smartphone user base surpassed 750 million, with over 80% being 4G smartphones, which are essential for mobile gaming.
• Mobile games like PUBG Mobile and Free Fire follow the freemium model, generating revenue through in-game purchases and ads. In 2023, Android mobile gaming revenue reached USD 1.60 billion, while iOS generated USD 760 million, with Android leading due to a larger user base and a variety of affordable devi

Growth of PC and Console Gaming Segments

• Contributing 13.25% of the market in 2023, PC gaming grew from USD 136.5 million in 2019 to USD 394 million. The demand for high-performance gaming laptops, especially during the pandemic, has driven growth, with users preferring devices that serve both gaming and professional needs.
• With a 6.96% share in 2023, console gaming rose from USD 73.1 million in 2019 to USD 196.1 million. Popular titles like FIFA and Call of Duty drive engagement, though high console prices remain a challenge in price-sensitive markets.

• Increasing disposable income, particularly in urban areas, is fuelling growth in both PC and console gaming, making premium gaming devices more accessible to India’s youth.

Gaming Genre which Indian Gamers Love to Play

• Indian gamers have distinct preferences for game genres, with action games leading. Popular titles like PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, and Call of Duty Mobile dominate, thanks to their fast-paced gameplay and competitive nature. PUBG Mobile alone has amassed over 1 billion downloads, showcasing its widespread popularity in India.
• The rise of eSports tournaments and streaming platforms like YouTube and Twitch has further propelled this genre, making it a favourite among multiplayer enthusiasts. In 2023, around 90 million players in India engaged in real-money games, which often include competitive formats typical of eSports
• Games like Assassin’s Creed attract players with immersive narratives and exploration-driven gameplay. Indian developers are beginning to craft culturally relevant stories, which could elevate this genre as the industry grows.

The Rising Influence of eSports

• The esports ecosystem in India is thriving, with growing tournaments, and large-scale events, and the financial rewards associated with esports are substantial. Major tournaments like the Battlegrounds Mobile India Series offer prize pools totalling around INR 2 crores, attracting thousands of participants
• Competitive gaming has become a vital part of India’s gaming landscape. Games like PUBG Mobile, Free Fire, and Call of Duty Mobile have led the charge, with millions of gamers tuning in to watch live-streamed tournaments.
• The increasing investment in eSports infrastructure, sponsorships, and professional teams has positioned India as a regional hub for eSports in Asia.

 India's gaming market is evolving rapidly, with mobile gaming taking the lead. However, both PC and console gaming are experiencing growth, driven by changing consumer preferences and higher disposable incomes. The country’s gaming habits reflect a strong affinity for action, adventure, and sports genres, with eSports emerging as a promising future trend. As the digital ecosystem continues to mature, India's gaming market presents immense opportunities for developers, investors, and content creators looking to tap into this vibrant and diverse market.