India’s gaming industry is experiencing an unprecedented boom, becoming a powerful force in the global digital entertainment space, with a staggering 568 million gamer users and a record 9.5 billion gaming app downloads by 2023.
At the heart of this growth is mobile-first. In India, mobile gaming accounts for 90% of the industry, far exceeding the 37% in the United States and 62% in China. The shift is driven by the proliferation of cheap smartphones and the growing availability of high-speed internet, even in rural areas.
Mobile revolution, monetization and growth
India’s gaming landscape is diversifying. The introduction of local languages and Indian themes in games is attracting non-English speaking populations, further expanding the market. This inclusivity is not just a matter of language; it reflects the rich diversity and possibilities of Indian culture in the digital world.
Notably, women make up around 40% of India’s gaming population, showing a significant shift from three years ago, when only one in five gamers was a woman. This demographic gravitates towards casual and hyper-casual gaming experiences, demonstrating the widespread integration of gaming into daily life. About 20% of Indian gamers are paying users, preferring paid games, casual games and core games. In-app purchases are expected to grow at a CAGR of 35%, highlighting the potential revenue possibilities within this space.
With the gaming industry booming, artificial intelligence (AI) is undoubtedly playing a key role in India. AI not only enhances the gaming experience with smarter and more interesting gameplay, but also saves time spent in the development process. Through research and innovation, AI enables personalized content, predictive analysis of user behavior, and efficient game testing. The AI-driven gaming industry in India is in a state of continued growth and is gradually transforming India into a global gaming hub. The innovative convergence of technology and culture is creating a digital playground where the possibilities are as endless as imagination.
