KRAFTON India, the esteemed creator of BGMI and one of the major players in the country’s gaming industry, is thrilled to announce the first cohort selection for its newly launched KRAFTON India Gaming Incubator (KIGI). Unveiled by KRAFTON in October 2023, KIGI’s mission is to mentor budding game developers in India over six months to a year, offering grants reaching up to $150,000.
KRAFTON India Gaming Incubator (KIGI) Launches India’s Next Generation of Game Developers
The premier cohort of KIGI encapsulates diversity and inclusivity, bringing together talented individuals and teams with a shared passion for game development. Over the forthcoming 6 to 12 months, these promising game developers will gain bespoke mentorship, funding, and exposure within the industry to enhance their skills and contribute significantly to India’s gaming scenario. This initiative aims to diversify and broaden India’s gaming landscape through the cohort’s innovative game releases.
Following an intensive selection process, two startups have been chosen from a pool of exceptionally skilled applicants across India. Representing a diverse spectrum of action-adventure, advanced PC, console, and mobile games, these startups highlight the creative richness of India’s gaming community.
The selection involved a strenuous and thorough process, spanning several months, reflecting the high-quality startups KRAFTON sought to incubate as part of KIGI’s inaugural cohort. KRAFTON continues to assess applicants and may consider expanding its first cohort based on the quality of applications and showcased products.
With numerous applications received and sustained interest in the program, KIGI plans to onboard more startups, with the impending second cohort expected to be larger.
Anuj Sahani, Head of KRAFTON India Incubator Program and India Publishing Advisor, remarked, “The initiation of KIGI’s first cohort signifies a major step in our commitment to nurturing India’s gaming ecosystem. This cohort comprises some of the most promising game developers from various parts of India. The selected startups excel not only in their innovative gaming concepts but also in their ambition to reshape the gaming landscape. We are excited to start this journey with them, offering customised support and resources to magnify their success.”
Meet the Cohort:
ReDimension Games, under CEO Pekrukhrietuo Pienyu’s leadership, is crafting “Sojourn Past,” an intriguing action-adventure game slated for a 2024 release on Windows and consoles. Based in Kohima, Nagaland, the team’s game promises a captivating blend of action, exploration, and narrative depth, set in a game world adorned with stunning pixel art and emotive music.
Bangalore-based Shura Games, led by CEO Shubham Bengale, presents “Spice Secrets,” a mobile game that merges culinary adventures with puzzle challenges, aiming to engage a wide audience.
The KRAFTON India Gaming Incubator Program is dedicated to providing each startup with a tailored development pathway, including mentorship from industry veterans in game development, design, marketing, and business strategy. The program places emphasis on technical support, problem-solving, regular mentorship sessions, collaborative workshops, and feedback mechanisms to ensure their growth. With post-incubation support, KIGI aspires to maintain the momentum of these emerging companies, contributing substantially to India’s dynamic gaming ecosystem.
