The Rise of Esports in India: Trends and Insights from FICCI-EY 2024 Report
The esports industry in India is experiencing a significant surge in popularity, with the airtime for competitive-level games increasing from 6,500 hours in 2023 to 8,000 hours in 2024. According to the FICCI-EY 2024 report, shooting games like PUBG Mobile and Mobile Legends: Bang Bang are among the most-watched games, with streamers playing a crucial role in driving the growth of these games.
Industry experts attribute the rise of esports in India to the shift from desktop to mobile gaming, improved mobile graphics, and the accessibility of online gaming platforms like Discord, Twitch, and YouTube. The report also highlights the significant revenue generated through in-app purchases, with games like BGMI driving the growth of the sector.
With online gaming expected to reach 491 million users by 2024, the industry is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 21%, reaching Rs 38,800 crore by 2026. Influencers and game publishers are playing a key role in expanding the gaming community and driving player engagement.
As the industry continues to evolve, experts predict that gaming-first social media platforms will reshape themselves, attracting more investors and advertisers. Advertisers are expected to flock to these platforms for their high engagement rates, creating new opportunities for monetization within the gaming industry.
Overall, the esports industry in India is poised for significant growth, with a strong focus on community-building, engagement, and innovation. Follow us on Twitter, Instagram, LinkedIn, and Facebook for more updates on the evolving esports landscape in India.