Gaming is all set to become a practical source of income in India, reveals Study
A recent study conducted by EPWA has indicated an increasing trend of gaming developing as a career option in India. According to the report, 83% of respondents perceive gaming to be a primary or secondary source of income
A recent study conducted by EGamers and Players Welfare Association (EPWA) has indicated an increasing trend of gaming developing as a career option in India, rather than merely a form of amusement. According to the report, 83% of respondents perceive gaming to be a primary or secondary source of income, demonstrating the paradigm shift towards gaming being a legitimate alternative that can be followed professionally. 39% see gaming as a key source of income, while 44% see it as a secondary source. The study also emphasizes how gamers have been able to earn more money with enhanced skill sets, and how gaming has motivated people to pursue it as a career. According to a recent analysis by Newzoo and MPL, this new gaming area, Paid Competitive gaming (PCG), is projected to be one of the fastest-growing segments, with a market value of $16 billion by 2024.
Another noteworthy finding from the study is that the most popular mobile games among Indians are puzzle, board games, and adventure sports, which are the top picks across demographics and levels of participation. While AAA games are popular among gamers aged 16 to 25, seasoned players choose Poker, Rummy, Carrom, and Puzzles.
The survey also goes deeply into the attitudes and preferences of Indian gamers and reveals critical data on required skills, family and social support, professional gaming, and the impact of legislation. EPWA conducted the research in partnership with the Centre for Justice through Technology (CJT), Vinayaka Mission's Law School, and the Research Foundation-DU Chennai. This qualitative study included in-depth interviews with casual and professional gamers, including online fantasy sports players, and esports professionals, including poker players, from around the country.
In contrast to the negative behavioral traits often associated with gaming, the study emphasizes how the realm of online gaming relies on devotion and commitment. These gamers dedicate 10-20 hours per week to their craft. Surprisingly, 77% of individuals who push the boundaries and accomplish maximum gaming hours are between the ages of 16 and 25. Success in online gaming also necessitates a set of fundamental qualities such as analytical skills (97%), focus (87%), and creativity (69%).
Within the gaming community, the landscapes of family and social support are distinct. When it comes to internet gaming, 71% of respondents received minimal family support, 17% experienced moderate support, and only 12% experienced familial encouragement. The study also showed how family and social support grow as gamers not only start to earn money from gaming but also demonstrate focus and commitment to continuing to improve their skills.
The survey, which sheds light on the earning potential of professional gamers, reveals that they rely on a varied range of money streams such as gamer contracts (51%), sponsorships (14%), streaming (5%), content creation (9%), and coaching (21%).
Concerns raised by gamers about the influence of regulations on the online gaming environment are highlighted in the report, with 89% believing that high taxation via GST and TDS has increased their cost of playing and may drive them to look for solutions through different platforms if GST is increased further. The criminalization of players by state governments and the lack of uniform legislation has also been noted as a major worry, with numerous state governments, including Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, and Assam, affecting 62% of the gamers. The study dives further into the social components and their impact on online gaming. Misconceptions and societal stigma have resulted from a lack of clarity regarding games of skill and games of chance, particularly among professional players. As a result, 71% of the pool indicated low family support.
Finally, the report emphasizes the need for a suitable and specific regulatory framework to protect user rights and promote responsible gaming, ensuring the sector's potential is realized.