Redefining Gaming Trends: The Rise Of Casual Gaming In India And Beyond
India”s gaming sector is undergoing a transformative shift, with a notable trend towards casual and mid-core games reshaping the landscape. According to data from EY, the dominance of real money gaming in the online gaming space is expected to diminish, accounting for 75% of the market by FY28, down from 84% in FY23. Instead, gamers are increasingly drawn to casual or mid-core games, driven by advertising revenue and in-app purchases, fueling growth in the country”s gaming industry.
The emergence of homegrown AAA games marks a significant milestone for India”s gaming industry, presenting a game-changing shift amid the challenges posed by the new goods and services tax. As gaming firms experiment with new business models and formats, the proliferation of refined, indigenous games is anticipated, further propelling the sector”s expansion.
The surge in popularity of casual gaming gained momentum during the nationwide lockdown imposed in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Casual gaming”s appeal lies in its accessibility, excitement, and minimal system requirements, making it an engaging pastime that doesn”t demand undivided attention. Smartphone gaming, in particular, has witnessed exponential growth, with data revealing a significant increase in global consumer expenditure on mobile games, reaching USD 116 billion.
The proliferation of 5G technology and the availability of unlimited data plans are poised to amplify the influence of casual gaming globally, especially on mobile platforms. The Asia-Pacific region, in particular, is expected to witness substantial growth, with approximately 1,545 million 5G mobile subscriptions forecasted by 2025. This expansion hinges on the continued progress in technology across hardware and software, coupled with advancements in network connectivity.
China, the United States, and Japan emerge as key players in the global gaming industry, with China leading in revenue generation, followed by the United States and Japan. India, with its diverse gaming market, is positioned uniquely, with the casual gaming segment experiencing significant growth. Revenue from casual gaming in India is projected to reach INR 169 billion by 2025, buoyed by an expanding user base and the pandemic-induced uptick in gaming activity.
Looking ahead, the Global Online Casual Games Market is forecasted to grow substantially, reaching USD 27.56 billion by 2029, reflecting a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.12% over the forecast period (2024-2029). This growth trajectory underscores the evolving preferences of gamers worldwide, as they gravitate towards casual and mid-core gaming experiences that offer accessibility, engagement, and entertainment.
Finally, India”s gaming sector is witnessing a paradigm shift driven by the rising popularity of casual and mid-core games. With technological advancements and shifting consumer preferences shaping the industry”s trajectory, the future holds immense potential for growth and innovation, positioning gaming as a prominent form of entertainment and leisure activity globally.
