India’s gaming industry crossed the $1 billion revenue threshold for the first time in 2025, generating $1.04 billion after a 14.8% year-on-year increase.
The growth was largely supported by mobile gaming, broader digital adoption and higher spending among certain consumer groups. Niko Partners projects that India’s gaming revenue will rise to almost $1.2 billion in 2026 and reach $1.77 billion by 2030, reflecting a five-year CAGR of 11.2%.
India remains the fastest-growing gaming market among those tracked by Niko Partners, with expansion driven by a rapidly increasing player base. The country had an estimated 511 million gamers in 2025, a figure expected to exceed 550 million in 2026 and pass 700 million by 2030.
Although India has one of the world’s largest gaming audiences, monetization is still developing. Average revenue per user stood at $2.04 in 2025 and is forecast to grow to $2.52 by 2030.
Mobile Growth Changes India’s Gaming Landscape
Mobile games continue to account for much of the market’s revenue growth. Rising smartphone access, increased digital payments and improving purchasing power among some consumers have encouraged greater spending.
Player interests are also expanding beyond established categories. Battle royale and casual games remain important, but audiences are increasingly exploring other genres across mobile, PC and console platforms.
Non-battle royale mobile titles increased their share of mobile game revenue from 53.2% in June 2023 to 62.8% in June 2026. Niko Partners said these emerging segments may attract smaller audiences, but they often generate strong engagement and create additional opportunities for publishers.
The report identified growing esports participation, stronger government support for gaming and increased interest in specialized player communities as factors likely to influence the market through 2030.
Female participation is also increasing. Women accounted for 49% of Indian players in 2026, compared with 43% in 2023.
UGC Platforms and Payment Trends Gain Importance
User-generated content platforms are becoming more popular among younger Indian gamers. Roblox and Minecraft have attracted growing attention, while Grand Theft Auto roleplay content has gained visibility through livestreaming platforms.
These platforms allow players to create, share and interact with gaming content, contributing to broader engagement within online communities.
Payment habits are another area shaping the market. UPI-based payment methods have been used by 84.6% of Indian players, compared with 31.5% who have used credit cards.
The report also found that 31.5% of gamers prefer buying in-game content through channels outside traditional app stores, including web stores, third-party platforms and top-up cards.
Player attitudes toward generative AI are becoming more cautious, according to Niko Partners. The report found that Indian gamers “are becoming more cautious about how AI is being used by both developers and players.”
Concerns about AI’s effect on employment were identified as a major reason behind the changing perception.
Niko Partners expects India’s gaming market to continue evolving as players adopt more genres, publishers target specialized audiences and esports communities expand. The country’s large player population combined with rising engagement levels is expected to support further industry growth.