India’s gaming and esports scene is gearing up for a major leap in 2025, according to AFK Gaming’s newly published report, India’s Gaming & Esports Landscape 2025. This deep dive offers data-driven insights into emerging trends, growth projections, and the challenges facing India’s vibrant esports ecosystem. The report arrives on the heels of AFK Gaming’s acquisition by NODWIN Gaming, showcasing the combined strength of these industry powerhouses.
Table of Contents
A Glimpse into the Industry’s Future
Backed by feedback from business leaders and professionals, the report reveals that 60% of respondents anticipate annual revenue growth of 10%–25% for the gaming and esports industry in 2025. Buoyed by new game titles, surging player communities, and increased investment, stakeholders express cautious optimism about the sector’s evolution in India.
Driving Forces of Esports Growth
- New Game Titles & Growing Player Base (60%)
Esports insiders predict that fresh game titles and expanding communities will be the primary accelerators of India’s esports landscape. - Investments (40%), Collegiate Tournaments (30%), and Supportive Government Policies (30%)
These factors, including strategic funding, grassroots competitions, and forward-looking legislative frameworks, will further propel professional gaming in the country.
Key Findings and Trends
- Focus on IP Development (40%)
Indian organisations in 2025 are prioritizing the creation of brand-new intellectual properties, while 30% emphasize monetizing existing properties more effectively. - Battle Royale Still Dominates (90%)
For mobile gaming, the vast majority believe Battle Royale titles will continue to lead. Hyper-casual resonates with a smaller but active niche (10%). - BGMI vs. The Contenders
60% are confident that Battlegrounds Mobile India (BGMI) will maintain its stronghold, while 40% foresee real competition emerging—namely Free Fire (70% see it as the main contender) and VALORANT (20%). - Local Content on the Rise (70%)
Culturally resonant games with regional language support and familiar themes will not only draw Indian audiences but also establish a global footprint. - Challenges: Infrastructure & Brand Spending (30% each)
Limited esports infrastructure and wavering brand investments pose the biggest hurdles, followed by regulatory issues (20%) and low engagement beyond metropolitan areas (10%).
Who’s Behind the Report?
AFK Gaming—founded by Nishant Patel, Rakesh Ramchandran, and Siddharth Nayyar—has spent more than a decade at the forefront of Indian esports media. Their popular Pixel P&L newsletter has become a trusted hub for business leaders worldwide, delivering curated analyses on esports trends and investment opportunities.
Pixel P&L: Your Go-To Source for Industry Insights
The newly released India’s Gaming & Esports Landscape 2025 report is the latest initiative under the Pixel P&L banner. By incorporating robust analytics and expert commentary, the publication aims to equip industry players with actionable data, enabling them to make smarter, faster decisions.
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