India’s gaming and esports industry is set to soar in 2025, driven by landmark events like the Olympic Esports Games in Saudi Arabia, the Esports World Cup, and the WAVES Esports Championships (WESC). According to Niko Partners, the Indian gaming market is projected to cross $1 billion in 2025, with a forecasted value of $1.4 billion by 2028, growing at an 11.1% CAGR.
The Olympic Esports Games will spotlight Indian gamers on the global stage, following India’s successful six-medal haul at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Similarly, the Esports World Cup, featuring chess and a $1.5 million prize pool, promises to amplify India’s esports momentum. Meanwhile, the Ministry-backed WAVES Esports Championships will kick off with finals in BGMI, WCC, and eFootball at the WAVES Summit in February.
Industry leaders emphasize the transformative potential of 2025. Akshat Rathee, Co-founder of NODWIN Gaming, notes, “We’re seeing a convergence of gaming with mainstream sports, music, and entertainment. This fusion will not only engage youth but also solidify gaming’s place in popular culture. India’s esports industry is poised for a phenomenal year ahead.”
Made-in-India games are also gaining traction, with companies like 88 Games preparing to launch major titles. High-profile collaborations, such as 8Bit Creatives’ naming rights deal with iQOO, underscore increasing interest from mainstream brands.
With innovations in gamification, AI, and cloud gaming, 2025 promises to elevate India’s gaming ecosystem to new heights.