KRAFTON India has dropped a bombshell for the esports community, announcing two flagship tournaments that will reshape India’s competitive gaming landscape in H2 2025. The BGMI Showdown and BGMI International Cup promise unprecedented opportunities for Indian teams to compete on the global stage.
Table of Contents
Tournament Overview
| Tournament | Prize Pool | Teams | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| BGMI Showdown (BMSD) | ₹1 Crore | 48 elite teams | Direct Global Championship entry |
| BGMI International Cup (BMIC) | ₹1 Crore | 16 teams (8 India + 8 Korea/Japan) | International LAN competition |
BGMI Showdown: India’s Gateway to Global Glory
Starting September 18th in Hyderabad, the BGMI Showdown will feature 48 top-tier teams from BGIS, BMPS, and approved third-party tournaments. The winner secures a direct slot to the Global Championship, while the top 8 teams advance to the International Cup.
The finals (October 10-12, 2025) will offer fans an exclusive live studio experience, marking a new chapter in Indian esports entertainment.
BGMI International Cup: India Hosts the World
From October 31 – November 2, 2025, India transforms into a global esports arena. The BGMI International Cup brings together India’s finest 8 teams against elite squads from Korea and Japan.
With two additional Global Championship pathways available, this tournament positions India firmly on the international esports map. For the first time, three Indian teams could potentially secure individual Global Championship entries.
Campus Tour 2025-2026: Nurturing Tomorrow’s Stars
KRAFTON’s commitment extends beyond professional competition. The expanded Campus Tour will target Tier-2 cities and colleges, creating pathways from casual gaming to professional esports. This grassroots initiative reflects the company’s vision of discovering untapped talent across India.
Why This Matters for Indian Esports
As Karan Pathak, Associate Director – Esports at KRAFTON India, emphasized, these tournaments create “structured pathways for esports talent in India” from college campuses to international competitions.
This announcement arrives at a pivotal moment when Indian esports is transitioning from niche entertainment to mainstream recognition, supported by government backing and growing audiences.
FAQs
When does the BGMI Showdown 2025 begin?
The tournament kicks off on September 18th, 2025, in Hyderabad.
How many Indian teams can qualify for the Global Championship?
Up to three Indian teams can secure Global Championship entries through both tournaments.
